Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College

ULPI Agricultural Practicess

Thursday, May 8, 2025 Share to Friend Print a Copy

ISPSC Faculty visit ULPI to enhance agricultural practices through smart tobacco farming exposure

As part of its ongoing commitment to advancing agricultural education, research, and community engagement, the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC) sent a team of faculty members to Universal Leaf Philippines Inc. (ULPI) in Isabela from May 8 to 10, 2025. The visit aimed to gain firsthand exposure to smart tobacco farming technologies and sustainable practices that can support ISPSC’s academic, research, and extension programs, particularly the establishment of a Tobacco Research Center at the Sta. Maria Campus.

The ISPSC delegation was composed of faculty researchers and extensionists from the Sta. Maria Campus - College of Agriculture, Forestry, Engineering, and Development Communication (CAFED), namely: Mr. Richard D. Dela Cruz; Dr. Marites U. Peralta; Engr. Jhun Cabebe; and Engr. Nessamy Viloria.  

During the three-day visit, the team observed the entire process of smart tobacco farming operations, beginning with ULPI’s orientation session that outlined the company’s farmer partnerships, growing schedules in Regions I and II, and their role in advancing agricultural innovation in the tobacco industry.

In addition, they also observed drone technology used for mapping, monitoring crop health, and applying chemicals. The visit also included trips to tobacco farms where the group witnessed sun-drying using solar dryers designed to reduce emissions, along with manual sorting and quality checks performed by farmers.

ISPSC President Dr. Mario P. Obrero said the ULPI visit is a valuable chance for the college to learn and grow in smart farming techniques. He added that this endeavor will help the faculty and students “bring new ideas to our community and support farmers in adopting better, more sustainable ways of working.”  

This engagement with ULPI is backed up by Hon. Kristine Singson-Meehan, Representative of the Second District of Ilocos Sur, whose advocacy for agricultural advancement continues to bridge institutions and local communities.

ULPI, an affiliate of Universal Corporation, is a multinational corporation engaged in growing, processing and marketing of tobacco. Its operation focuses in Regions I and II of the Philippines with branches in Pasig, Ilocos Sur, Isabela, and La Union.

#ISPSC #UniversityOfIlocosPhilippines #OnwardsUIP

#SDG9IndustryInnovationandInfrastructure

#SDG12ResponsibleConsumptionandProduction

#SDG17PartnershipfortheGoals

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