A significant meeting took place yesterday May 16, 2024 at the Office of the Chancellor conference room, Mindanao State University at Naawan, to discuss the collaborative Sericulture and Moriculture Project. The gathering brought together key representatives from the Organization for Industrial, Spiritual and Cultural Advancement (OISCA), the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), the First Community Cooperative (FICCO), LGU Naawan, and MSU at Naawan.

The distinguished attendees from OISCA included Yukihiro Ishibashi, Resident Representative, Yasuaki Nagaishi, Secretary General of OISCA Japan, and members Toshihiko Nonaka and Kiyoshi Okura. Representing DOST-PTRI was Ms. Cheryl Lopez, Senior Science Research Specialist and Silk Program Focal Person. Ms. Julie Buzarang attended on behalf of FICCO, while Mr. Manny Maglangit, the Municipal Agriculture Officer of Naawan, also participated.

MSU Naawan's delegation was led by Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa, accompanied by Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Gergie A. Ambato, Research Director Dr. Ruby C. Gonzales, Extension Director Mariefe B. Quiñones, Project Leader Assoc Prof. Edgar D. Castañares, Project Member Asst. Prof. Russel D. Bañoc, and Extension Division Secretary.

The Sericulture and Moriculture Project aims to cultivate mulberry trees and rear silkworms, leveraging the mulberry leaves to produce silk. A notable highlight of the meeting was OISCA’s commitment to support the enhancement of MSU Naawan's greenhouse facilities, specifically at the College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental Sciences.

One of the project’s critical objectives is to contribute to reforestation efforts in Misamis Oriental through extensive mulberry production. This collaboration among OISCA, DOST-PTRI, FICCO, LGU Naawan, and MSUN highlights a shared vision for environmental sustainability and economic development. The meeting also explored the potential of establishing MSU at Naawan as a satellite area for sericulture production.

OISCA’s dedication to fostering global collaboration through industrial participation, spiritual foundation, and cultural involvement aligns seamlessly with the project’s goals. This initiative not only aims to enhance environmental sustainability but also to provide livelihood opportunities for the local community in Naawan. MSU at Naawan remains committed to spearheading projects that promote sustainability, environmental consciousness, and economic development.