ILOCOS NORTE—Cagayan State University, led by Officer-in-Charge President Dr. Arthur G. Ibañez, conducted a benchmarking visit to the National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center (NBERIC) of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) on July 20, 2026, as part of the University’s continuing efforts to strengthen research, innovation, and sustainability initiatives.

The visit enabled Cagayan State University officials to gain insights into NBERIC’s research and development initiatives in bioenergy, renewable energy, waste valorization, and sustainable technologies, providing valuable references for the University’s own Circular Economy programs and resource utilization strategies.

The delegation was welcomed by MMSU President Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano. Also present during the activity was Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, who earlier presided over the MMSU Board of Regents Meeting and shared insights drawn from her extensive experience in bioenergy research.

During the benchmarking activity, the Cagayan State University delegation toured NBERIC’s research and production facilities, including its FDA-licensed Product Production Laboratory and Fabrication Laboratory, where discussions centered on laboratory operations, technology commercialization, quality assurance systems, and institutional research management.

Meanwhile, joining Dr. Ibañez were member of the Cagayan State University Board of Regents Hon. Joselito Luna, Director for Research and Development Dr. Anderson Gonzales, Campus Executive Officers of Aparri and Sanchez Mira, Engr. Policarpio Mabborang Jr. and Dr. Rodel Francisco Alegado, University Consultant Dr. Florentina Dumlao and other university officials.