On December 02, 2025, Benguet State University had the honor of welcoming representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The visiting team was composed of Senior Program Officer Lara Javier, Program Officer Lyr Faith Paruhinog, and Japanese Volunteer Coordinators Shibasaki Eiji and Kato Makoto. Their visit is part of the ongoing initiatives between BSU and JICA, especially in supporting the ongoing Pomology Project of the university.
Upon their arrival, the group was warmly welcomed at the office of the President by Josel M. Florentin, Vice President for Business Affairs. Joining him were Constantino T. Sudaypan, Dean of the Benguet State University-College of Agriculture; Jamesly Andres, Chair of the Extension Department; and Rex John G. Bawang, Director of the International Relations Office. Their presence showed that BSU values its partners and aims to continue working closely with them.
During their courtesy call to the BSU-Office of the President, the delegates briefly introduced themselves and shared the direction and plans for the collaboration. After the courtesy visit, the team proceeded to the College of Agriculture for a more detailed meeting. Both sides discussed the preparations needed by the University, the Agency, and the incoming JICA volunteer who will serve at BSU next year. They also explored additional areas where the volunteer may be involved, including community extension activities and academic engagement. Furthermore, they also discussed potential future partnerships, such as possible collaboration with the College of Forestry- BSU in the coming years.
Following the productive discussion, the group was given a tour around the College of Agriculture. They visited the office where the incoming volunteer will be staying and the colleagues the volunteer will be with. The tour also included a visit to the area where the Pomology Project is being implemented. This gave the JICA representatives a closer look at the current progress of the project, the layout of the area, the problems encountered, and the different fruit trees that have been planted. After viewing the project site, the group also visited the Marketing Center, where they saw and explored the various products sold by BSU.
BSU looks forward to the arrival of the JICA volunteer and the new opportunities this partnership will bring for learning, research, and community development, supporting global goals such as Quality Education (#SDG4), Zero Hunger (#SDG2), Life on Land (#SDG15), Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (#SDG16), and Partnerships for the Goals (#SDG17).





































