The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Region V sought to learn from the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture’s (CBSUA) successful environmental initiatives, conducting a benchmarking activity at the university’s CND Hall on February 28, 2025. The focus was CBSUA’s ISO 14001 Environmental Management System certification and its broader commitment to sustainability.
“We appreciate TESDA Region V recognizing our efforts,” said Dr. Emerson Bergonio, CBSUA’s Vice President for Academic Affairs. “We are committed to continuous improvement, striving towards a truly Green CBSUA.”
Dr. Rosaline J. Mojal, Associate Professor IV from TESDA Camarines Sur Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (CASIFMAS), highlighted the event’s role in fostering knowledge exchange. The TESDA delegation included regional and provincial office heads, technical personnel, and representatives from various technical-vocational institutions (TVIs).
CBSUA heads presented their strategies for promoting a green campus, showcasing its quality assurance initiatives, the Environmental Management Office’s work through the CBSUA Resilience Center, Physical Plant Development and Services, the BS Environmental Science Program, and their UI Green Metric initiatives.
An interactive open forum allowed TESDA and CBSUA personnel to exchange insights and experiences on implementing environmental programs.
Following the meeting, the TESDA team paid a courtesy visit to CBSUA President Dr. Alberto N. Naperi, viewed the admin building art exhibit, and toured the university’s Agriville and Learning Hub.
This collaborative benchmarking activity is a step towards enhancing environmental sustainability in both technical and higher education sectors within the Bicol region. The shared knowledge and best practices are expected to drive the development of more effective environmental management strategies.