VICTORIA, Tarlac — Tarlac State University (TSU) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Victoria have reaffirmed their commitment to the continuing implementation of the Development of the Victoria Drainage and Biodiversity Plan, advancing the university’s research agenda under its DALAN Framework.
The two parties held a meeting at the Victoria Municipal Hall on August 13, 2026, led by TSU President Jasper Jay Mendoza and Victoria Municipal Mayor Rex Villa Agustin, to discuss the ongoing project and ensure its continuity following the recent transition in the university administration.
The project, which is covered by a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed by TSU and LGU-Victoria in January 2026, is implemented through the University’s Center for Engineering and Environmental Research (CEER). It involves the development of a long-term drainage master plan based on a comprehensive assessment of Victoria’s drainage infrastructure, hydrology, topography, and a baseline ecological assessment of Canarem Lake.
During the meeting, newly designated CEER Director Engr. Bertrand Aldous Santillan reported on the project’s current status, while Municipal Planning and Development Office Director Maria Roselle Galo outlined the expected outputs and implementation requirements. The parties also discussed updates to project plans and deliverables, including the target completion of the drainage plan by September.
The discussion likewise covered additional funding support for the publication of research outputs, with LGU-Victoria expressing its support for the additional requirement through an addendum to the existing MOA.
President Mendoza assured LGU-Victoria of TSU’s full commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the agreement and expressed gratitude for the local government’s continued partnership.
Mayor Villa Agustin, in turn, affirmed the LGU’s continued support for the project, emphasizing the importance of research-based solutions in ensuring the long-term care and development of the municipality.
“Patuloy nating pinahahalagahan ang pakikipagtulungan sa mga institusyong pang-akademiko at mga katuwang na eksperto upang makabuo ng mga solusyong nakabatay sa pananaliksik at makatutulong sa pangmatagalang pangangalaga at pag-unlad ng ating bayan para sa Mas Maunlad na Victoria,” the mayor stated.
Joining President Mendoza were Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Niño Corpuz; Presidential Assistant Brigido Corpuz; Office of University Research Development Director Maria Agnes Ladia; CEER Director Engr. Santillan; OVPRIE Executive Assistant Jay-Art Agustin; and staff from the CEER.
The collaboration underscores the shared commitment of TSU and LGU-Victoria to fostering sustainable development through research and evidence-based planning, contributing to a more resilient and progressive Victoria.
