The University of Southeastern Philippines formally entered into a partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment Region (DOLE) XI and partner organizations through a ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing for the USeP-DOLE Convergence Techno-Demo Project held on May 11, 2026, at the IT Building, USeP Obrero Campus.
The agreement was signed among USeP, DOLE XI, Basak Pangutusan Carp Irrigators Association (BPCIA) Inc., Awao Communal Irrigators Association (ACIA) Inc., and Mundo Engineering Works (MEW) to support the implementation of a technology-driven agricultural initiative centered on Zappify, an Internet of Things (IoT)-based pest management system developed by USeP.
Under the agreement, USeP serves as the licensor and holder of the proprietary rights to Zappify, a technology designed to improve agricultural productivity while reducing dependence on chemical pesticides. The University, through the Center for Research and Innovation in Industrial Technology (CRIIT), the official research center of the College of Technology, will assist in the implementation of the techno-demo project.
MEW, as the licensed fabricator and technology partner of the University, is authorized to manufacture, sell, and supply Zappify units to identified beneficiaries pursuant to a separate Technology Licensing Agreement.
Meanwhile, DOLE XI, through its DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), committed support for the initiative as a technology-driven convergence project aimed at uplifting rural farming communities. The agency allocated Php2 million for the project and designated the BPCIA as its accredited co-partner and financial conduit for the disbursement and management of project funds. BPCIA and the ACIA were identified as project cooperators and direct beneficiaries.
In his message, Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales Jr. emphasized that the partnership reflects what can be achieved when institutions, communities, and development partners work together through research, innovation, and public service.
He shared that the project embodies the University’s vision of becoming a premier research university transforming communities in the ASEAN, noting that Zappify demonstrates how research can move from laboratories to farming communities and create opportunities that uplift farmers while protecting the environment.
Dr. Gabales also expressed gratitude to DOLE XI for its Php2-million funding support and acknowledged the participation of the partner irrigators’ associations for embracing innovative and sustainable farming practices. He likewise recognized Mundo Engineering Works for helping bring the technology closer to farming communities.
DOLE XI Regional Director Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy said the Zappify model should not only serve Region XI but could also become a model for national application. Meanwhile, Lemuel O. Alvior expressed gratitude to the institutions involved and assured partners of their commitment to the success of the project.
Also present during the activity were Vice President for Planning and Quality Assurance Dr. Tamara Cher R. Mercado; Zappify Project Team led by Asst. Prof. Keno A. Mendoza; delivery unit heads and staff under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development and Extension; faculty and staff of the College of Technology led by Acting Dean Dr. Filmann T. Simpao; and representatives from partner agencies and institutions.
The initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger through sustainable agricultural productivity, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure through technology-driven solutions and innovation, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by strengthening collaboration among government agencies, academic institutions, private partners, and farming communities.
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