Bridging academic preparation with professional practice, the USeP College of Agriculture and Related Sciences officially deployed its Bachelor of Science in Forestry students for their 324-hour Field Practicum under the Off-Semester 2025–2026 program on June 24, 2026, at the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), Provincial Government of Davao de Oro.

The deployment marked another milestone in USeP’s commitment to producing competent forestry professionals equipped with the technical expertise, environmental ethics, and leadership needed to address today’s pressing ecological challenges. Through this field immersion, students will gain firsthand experience in forest resource management, environmental conservation, policy implementation, and community-based natural resource management while working alongside environmental practitioners in the province.

The practicum deployment was formally endorsed and warmly welcomed by PENRO-PG Department Head, Environmental Planner Marilyn Perlas, who reaffirmed the Provincial Government’s commitment to nurturing future forestry professionals through meaningful field exposure and collaborative learning. Representing the Department of Forestry were BS Forestry Program Head Dr. Rosalinda P. Tutor and faculty member Forester Christopher V. Famor, who accompanied the students during the official turnover and emphasized the importance of experiential learning in preparing students for the realities of environmental management and public service.

Alongside the deployment, the USeP delegation participated in the celebration of Philippine Environment Month 2026 at the Provincial Capitol of Davao de Oro. This event provided students with insight into ongoing provincial environmental initiatives, conservation programs, and stakeholder engagements. It allowed them to observe how government agencies, academic institutions, and communities collaborate to protect the country’s natural resources.

The practicum strengthens the enduring partnership between USeP and the Provincial Government of Davao de Oro, aimed at advancing forestry education, promoting sustainable environmental governance, and enhancing community engagement. By immersing students in real-world field operations, the University effectively transforms classroom theory into practical skills. This prepares graduates to be responsible stewards of the nation’s forests and biodiversity.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the initiative advances SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing experiential and industry-based learning, SDG 13 (Climate Action) through capacity-building for climate-responsive environmental management, SDG 15 (Life on Land) by fostering sustainable forest conservation and ecosystem protection, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through sustained collaboration between academia and local government in promoting sustainable development.

As the student foresters begin this important chapter in their professional journeys, they carry not only the knowledge gained in the classroom but also the responsibility to protect, conserve, and restore the nation’s natural resources. Through every field assignment, community engagement, and environmental initiative, they embody the mission of USeP: to develop competent, service-oriented, and environmentally conscious professionals dedicated to building a more sustainable future.