Marking a new era in community development, Pangasinan State University, Asingan Campus, under the guidance of Campus Executive Director, Dr. Madlyn D. Tingco, spearheaded an innovative two-day extension program on November 23-24, 2023, at Salud, Santiago Island, Bolinao, Pangasinan. This pioneering initiative, incorporating projects like “Project MHEAN,” “Project BIT,” and “101 Ways to Prepare Moringa Dishes,” aimed to equip and uplift the lives of housewives in Salud through sustainable livelihood skills.
The program commenced with Asst. Prof. Analyn Diola setting the tone with a resolute statement of purpose, paving the way for a sequence of enlightening sessions led by the esteemed faculty of BIT, Engr. Carlos Castillo Jr. who delved into the intricate workings of Solar Power Energy, underscoring its cost-effectiveness and unwavering reliability, especially crucial in off-grid areas where conventional power sources fall short.
Simultaneously, Engr. Eric Cunanan, another BIT faculty member, engaged the audience in an illuminating exploration of wind power energy, highlighting its renewable essence and eco-friendly impact, emphasizing the critical role of wind resources and strategic turbine placement for optimal efficiency.
Concurrently, Mr. Christian Garret Aquino, also a BIT faculty member, simplified motorcycle engine maintenance, emphasizing the importance of regular upkeep for peak performance while Dr. Julie Agpaoa guided participants through the art of small arc welding, empowering them with invaluable hands-on skills.
Expanding horizons, Project MHEAN introduced groundbreaking initiatives like Bangus Spanish Sardines making, spearheaded by the project leader and BIT faculty member who specializes in Food Service Management, Ms. Mhean Turingan. Participants, deeply engaged in this skill due to the prevalence of bangus or milkfish on the island, absorbed the intricacies of the process.
Ms. Turingan conveyed her gratitude, stating, “As a proponent of Project MHEAN, I feel honored and grateful for this chance to be with other faculty members of PSU-AC as we make an effort to reach and support these communities in terms of livelihoods. This project provides opportunities for women to sustain their lives in simple ways.
Sharing my knowledge with participants in remote areas such as the island of Santiago in Bolinao is a fulfilling experience. Knowing that after the extension program, they have something to look forward to, which in return, can make a big or small impact on their lives as housewives.”
Following this, Ms. Marry Ann Soberano, Chairman of BSEd and BTLEd, and Mr. Genesis Padilla, BTLED Faculty, delighted participants with a session on moringa-based treats. They highlighted the health benefits and crafted delightful desserts tailored to health-conscious consumers.
Diversifying the skill set, Ms. Patricia Manaloto, BSE Science faculty member, empowered attendees by demonstrating the creation of liquid dishwashing soap, advocating not just its advantages but also ways to turn this skill into a sustainable income source.
Meanwhile, Asst. Prof. Adoracion Gante, Extension Coordinator, showcased her expertise in flower fabric origami, inspiring participants with creative crafts and fueling their passion for enhancing home aesthetics.
In a gesture of profound gratitude, the PSU-AC team extended appreciation to the community of Barangay Salud, identifying individuals poised to lead businesses based on the presented livelihood projects. In turn, the community lauded PSU Asingan campus for its steadfast support and transformative contributions, significantly enhancing community life.
