CSU to lead eco-friendly, water-saving irrigation project; MOA signed

Caraga State University (CSU) formalized its collaboration with Verde Carbon Capture, Inc. (VCCI)  on the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) Technology for Rice Production and Methane Reduction Project through a virtual Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing on August 12, 2025.

The project features AWD, an irrigation technique for paddy rice fields that conserves water by periodically draining the field and allowing the soil to dry before re-flooding instead of maintaining continuous flooding. AWD also reduces greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane, by affecting the bacteria responsible for its production.

The project, based in Butuan City, is led by CSU College of Agriculture and Agri-Industries (CAA) faculty Glenn Arthur A. Garcia, PhD. For CSU, it is expected to boost rice yield, generate employment opportunities and profit, and contribute to the university’s research, development, and extension initiatives.

CSU Research & Development, Innovation, and Extension Director Jaymer Jayoma, DIT, opened the virtual MOA signing, followed by a message of support from University President Rolyn C. Daguil, PhD. VCCI Chief Operating Officer Takato Senoo, along with other representatives, also expressed their commitment to the partnership.

CAA faculty and staff involved in the project, including Dean Elizabeth P. Parac, PhD, were likewise present during the event.

The project will initially establish a 100-hectare demo site in Butuan, with plans to expand to 30,000 hectares of AWD-adoptable locations by 2027. Through this initiative, CSU contributes to Sustainable Agri-Fishery & Forest Resources Management, in line with SDG No. 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG No. 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).