Tarlac State University entered into a partnership with the Provincial Government of Tarlac through its Center for Engineering and Environmental Research (CEER) and the Office of University Research Development (OURD).
Two memoranda of agreement were signed on Wednesday (March 25) at the Diwa ng Tarlac, with TSU President Dr. Arnold E. Velasco and Provincial Governor Hon. Christian Tell A. Yap formalizing collaborative efforts in research, development, and extension.
The OURD will work with the Provincial Government of Tarlac on a project titled "Project M.A.P.A. Kalusugan sa Tarlac: Monitoring at Aksyon sa Pagbuti ng Antas ng Kalusugan sa Tarlac," which aims to improve health outcomes in the province through systematic monitoring and evidence-based interventions.
Meanwhile, the agreement with CEER covers a long-term research program titled, "Tarlac Spatial Data Infrastructure (TSDI): A GIS-Based Digital Mapping and Data Integration Project for Provincial Planning and Public Service Delivery," along with the extension program, "E.A.R.T.H.S.H.I.E.L.D. (Enhancing Awareness, Resilience, and Tactical Hazard Management in Securing Humanity through Innovation, Environmental Leadership, and Sustainable Development)."
The TSDI project utilizes a geographic information system (GIS) — a computer-based tool for analyzing and visualizing spatial data to support evidence-based planning and decision-making. The research components will be developed as integrated domain layers to help visualize the province's multifaceted landscape.
In addition, the E.A.R.T.H.S.H.I.E.L.D. extension program focuses on strengthening disaster risk reduction and management capacities through training, consultations, and technical studies. It highlights the use of advanced software and tools such as real-time hazard monitoring and predictive analytics to enhance community preparedness and resilience.
The agreement with the OURD will be valid for two years, while the partnership with CEER will be valid for three years.
Joining Pres. Velasco during the signing are OURD Director Dr. Robert V. Marcos, CEER Director Dr. Murphy P. Mohammed, Ms. Frances Margaret Canlas, Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions officer, Mr. Macquel Serrano, who represented Provincial Health Officer Dr. Jeanette A. Lazatin, and Engr. Fernando P. Gallieto, Provincial Planning and Development coordinator. (jlm-OPA)
Photo: Eduardo F. Laxamana Jr.
