The milestone initiative gathered University officials, government partners, faculty members, and students in a shared commitment to advancing climate-resilient agriculture through modern technology. Present during the ceremony were USeP TMC Chancellor Dr. Shirley S. Villanueva, Administrative Support Services Head Ms. Sharmie H. Cuarte, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (DABE) Program Head Engr. Ruel F. Tuyogon, Project Leader Engr. Teofilo Jr. U. Sevilla, representatives from the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office XI (DA RFO XI), administrative personnel, and Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (BSABE) students.

In her welcome message, Chancellor Villanueva underscored the University’s unwavering commitment to strengthening innovation-driven agricultural education and research. She emphasized that the SMART Greenhouse Facility represents more than a new infrastructure project, it is an investment in the future of agriculture, providing students, researchers, and stakeholders with a modern learning environment where science, technology, and sustainability converge to address emerging agricultural challenges. She likewise expressed gratitude to the University’s partners for supporting initiatives that empower future agricultural professionals and contribute to regional food security.

Engr. Sevilla provided an overview and rationale for the project, explaining that the SMART Greenhouse Facility is intended to be a hub for technology-driven crop production, research, teaching, and outreach. By incorporating automation, environmental monitoring systems, and precision agriculture technologies, the facility aims to improve resource efficiency, enhance crop productivity, and showcase sustainable production practices suitable for both urban and peri-urban farming. He emphasized that the project will serve as a valuable platform for experiential learning while promoting innovative agricultural solutions that can adapt to the country’s changing food production requirements.

Delivering the message of support on behalf of the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office XI, Agricultural Center Chief II Dr. John Paul L. Matuguinas lauded USeP for championing innovation in agricultural education. He emphasized that partnerships between academic institutions and government agencies play a crucial role in accelerating technology adoption, strengthening research collaboration, and equipping future agricultural professionals with the competencies needed to build a more resilient and sustainable agriculture sector. He reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote food security, climate adaptation, and modern farming technologies.

In his closing remarks, Engr. Tuyogon expressed gratitude to the University’s leadership, government partners, faculty members, and students for their collective efforts in bringing the project closer to realization. He encouraged the academic community to fully utilize the facility as a living laboratory where innovation, research, and practical learning can thrive. This environment aims to produce graduates who are capable of leading the future of Philippine agriculture through engineering excellence and sustainable solutions.

After the program at the Farmers’ Training Center, participants moved to the project site for the ceremonial groundbreaking and inauguration. This symbolic ceremony marked the official start of constructing the SMART Greenhouse Facility. It signifies the University’s ongoing commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports agricultural modernization, scientific research, and experiential learning.

The initiative strongly advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by promoting sustainable and climate-smart food production systems; SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the establishment of an advanced learning and research facility; SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by strengthening research infrastructure and agricultural innovation; and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by encouraging resource-efficient and climate-resilient farming technologies that help address the impacts of climate change on food production.