CSU, partner universities advance earthquake-induced landslide preparedness through CRA

Caraga State University took a major step toward enhancing disaster preparedness and resilience through the Machine Learning of Physics-based Earthquake-induced Landslide Parameters for Efficient Prediction and Warning in the Philippines (ML-PREP) Project during a Collaborative Research Agreement (CRA) signing ceremony with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), led by Dr. Jose V. Camacho, Jr., Chancellor of UPLB, last October 20, 2025. 

Joining the CRA signing to represent their institutions were university presidents Dr. Maria Rio Abdon-Naguit of Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) and Dr. Bert J. Tuga of Philippine Normal University (PNU).

In his statement, Chancellor Camacho emphasized the significance of partnerships that combine education, science, and community service. He underscored that the CRA reflects UPLB’s commitment to using research and innovation to address pressing national concerns—particularly disaster risk reduction and environmental management.

“Through collaboration, we can create stronger programs that empower our people to respond to the challenges of natural disasters,” Dr. Camacho said, thanking the partner universities for joining this shared mission.

CSU President Dr. Rolyn C. Daguil gave special attention to the ML-PREP initiatives, citing its vital role in promoting awareness of earthquake-induced landslides among communities. CSU representatives shared that the program’s data-driven and educational approach will help improve local disaster response strategies, land-use planning, and public safety measures nationwide.

Dr. Jenielyn T. Padrones, Director of the Office for Institutional Development in Higher Education at UPLB, expressed her appreciation to the partner universities and emphasized that MLPREP embodies the spirit of collaboration, bridging academic research and community service to create a safer and more disaster-ready Philippines.

The delegation proceeded to the UPLB College of Forestry and Natural Resources (CFNR) and the School of Environmental Science and Management (SESAM) for benchmarking activities aligned with Project LIGTAS, a program complementing ML-PREP’s objectives. Participants were introduced to soil sampling procedures, environmental monitoring systems, and the use of advanced algorithms for assessing landslide risks.