The University’s Research and Development (R&D) Department held a joint ceremony on October 15, 2025, to break ground on its new Outdoor Mushroom House and officially inaugurate its Research Collaboration Area. The event was conducted in line with the institution’s initiatives to advance agricultural and developmental studies.

Attended by key officials and staff led by Dr. Hermenegildo F. Samoy, Jr., University President, the day’s events signaled a major expansion of the institution’s research and development capabilities. The program featured a welcome address from Dr. Divina Gracia Sabio, Campus Administrator of Diffun, followed by a message of support delivered by Dr. Elizabeth T. Carig, Vice President for Academics, Research, and Extension.

The first part of the program culminated in the Ceremonial Turning of Soil and Photo Opportunity, where all attendees participated in the ritual to formally mark the start of construction for the new research facility.

Following the initial ceremony, the program proceeded with the Inauguration and Blessing of the Research Collaboration Area. The formal opening was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, after which Fr. Alvin A. Bangloy performed the official blessing and prayer, dedicating the space for fruitful scholarly work and collaboration. A brief but significant session was held before the closing program, officially naming the Research Collaboration Area “Saririt,” an Ilocano term that means wisdom or intelligence.

Vice President Carig and Dr. Dyanika P. Nolasco, Campus R&D Director, proposed and led the management of the Project on Upgrading of the Mushroom Research, Development, and Production at QSU, which includes the construction of the outdoor mushroom house.

Both leaders also spearheaded the establishment of the newly inaugurated Saririt Collaboration Area, a dynamic academic hub where learning, innovation, and collaboration can take place. The facility is strategically designed to enhance research visibility, encourage interdisciplinary engagement, and support the development of a research-oriented mindset among students.

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Credits: Project details from VP Carig and Dr. Nolasco