By Izza Victoria Lopez, Shane Dela Torre, April A. Paligumba, and Raef Cen R. Palomar

Participants of the 6th Visayas-Wide PSABE-PPG Annual Convention gathered for a photo opportunity in front of the iconic “119 CPU” landmark at Central Philippine University.

On January 14-17, 2025, the Philippine Society of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineers – Pre-Professional Group (PSABE-PPG) Central Philippine University Chapter co-hosted the 6th Visayas-Wide PSABE-PPG Annual Convention, in partnership with PSABE-PPG Visayas Island Wide Chapter. The event took place at Ina Farmers Learning Site and Agri-Farm Inc. at Brgy. Agcuyawan Pulo, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo, with the theme, “Voyaging Visayas: Navigating ABE Innovations and Technopreneurship for Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture.”

A total of eighty-seven (87) students from Bohol Island State University (BISU) Bilar Campus, Capiz State University (CAPSU) – Pontevedra Campus, CAPSU – Burias Campus, and Central Philippine University (CPU) gathered for this annual event, which officially began on January 14, 2025.

The event was opened by Dr. Aries Roda D. Romallosa, who delivered the opening remarks and led the official declaration of the event’s opening. Along with the inspirational message from Engr. Moises Mana-ay – Chief, RAED RFO-VI, as the keynote speaker, which was delivered by the Assistant RAED Chief Engr. Jewel Von J. Limsiaco. A series of lectures highlighted the first day emphasizing the increasing demand for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineers (ABEs) and their role in transforming the agricultural landscape. Engr. Jackson Demamay presented the history, core functions, and career development opportunities at the Western Visayas Integrated Agricultural Research Center (WESVIARC), while Engr. Julie Anne Cordero discussed “Agriculture 4.0: The Era of Technology-Driven Agriculture.”

That evening, a candle-lighting ceremony honored the December 2024 Agricultural and Biosystems Engineers Licensure Examination (ABELE) passers, followed by a socialization night where participants, fondly referred to as “bayaws,” shared experiences and built connections.

On its second day, it featured additional insightful lectures. Engr. Gelvie C. Lagos, who introduced CPU’s Technology Business Incubator (TBI) called CPUGAD including how the Startup Education Program of the university can be a bridge to innovation and technopreneurship for food security.  Engr. Janice P. Vargas, President of PSABE Inc., discussed “Agriculture and Biosystems Engineers Career Opportunities” and was followed by Atty. Engr. John Paul T. Romero, Board of Trustee PSABE Inc., who explained “The Philippine Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Standards and Laws.”

Students also participated in various competitions, showcasing their technical skills, including Quiz Bee, AutoCAD Challenge, Essay Writing Contest, Poster Making Contest, E-sports tournament, Machine Parts Identification Contest and Tractor Driving Competition. The highlight of the evening was the Mr. & Ms. PSABE-PPG Visayas Pageant, which featured participants’ talent, advocacy, and grace.

On the third day, January 16, 2025, participants engaged in a mangrove planting activity as part of their commitment to environmental sustainability. This community service demonstrated their dedication to restoring coastal ecosystems and combating climate change. The day concluded with the ABE Parangal (Awarding Ceremony), recognizing outstanding individuals and groups who excelled in the various competitions.

The final day, January 17, 2025, was a vibrant cultural and historical tour of Iloilo City. Participants visited iconic landmarks, including The National Museum of the Philippines – Western Visayas (formerly the Iloilo Provincial Jail), Molo Church, and Molo Mansion. They also explored the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) and captured moments at the lively K-TOWN in Festive Walk.

The tour ended with a visit to the campus of Central Philippine University, where participants gathered for one last photo opportunity at the iconic “119 CPU” landmark.

The successful hosting of VISABECON 2025 was a significant achievement for Central Philippine University, which not only organized engaging discussions and activities but also fostered collaboration and camaraderie among ABE students from across the Visayas. The event emphasized the importance of innovation, sustainability, and teamwork amongst Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering students while leaving a lasting impact on all participants.

As participants departed, the collective sense of accomplishment and shared vision for the future underscored the convention’s success. Indeed, “Basta Bayaw, Hataw!”

Students from Central Philippine University – College of Agriculture, Resources, and Environmental Sciences (CPU-CARES) was hailed as the overall champion in VISABECON 2025. Followed by CAPSU-Burias, CAPSU-Pontevedra, and BISU Bilar Campus, showcasing their outstanding performances across multiple categories.

The following are the PSABE-PPG CPU Chapter contest winners: