Dr. Chimene Castor, a Fulbright Specialist from Howard University in Washington, D.C., made a courtesy visit to the Office of Hon. Gov. Dakila Carlo E. Cua and Hon. Cong. Midy N. Cua. The meeting this late afternoon, August 8, was facilitated by Ms. Carmen Jimenez, Provincial Administrator. Dr. Castor’s visit is connected to her work with the University as a Fulbright scholar where she is advancing the advocacy of food as medicine.
Dr. Castor was accompanied by Dr. Hermenegildo F. Samoy, Jr., University President; Dr. Florigold V. Saldaen, Vice President for Administration and Finance; Dr. Romiro G. Bautista, International Relations Officer; and Dr. Divina Gracia S. Sabio, Campus Administrator of QSU-Diffun.
During the meeting, Dr. Castor recounted her positive experiences in the province. She spoke about her remarkable involvement in various research and instructional activities at the University, including community outreach. Finding her experiences as “phenomenal,” she also expressed her strong admiration for the initiatives led by Dr. Arlyn J. Yra and Dr. Jonathan N. Tariga concerning sustainable nutrition, food security, and health.
PA Jimenez shared the local government’s interest in collaborating with the University and Dr. Castor to develop policies that would enhance the province’s nutrition and healthcare systems. Speaking on behalf of the Governor and Congresswoman, she voiced their appreciation for the initiatives of the University and expressed the local government’s support for programs that promote public health awareness and community development.
As Dr. Castor is scheduled to return to the U.S. next week, PA Jimenez and the university officials extended their gratitude for her visit. They expressed a wish for her to return next year for greater collaboration, particularly in developing the province’s nutrition and health programs. The meeting concluded with a shared understanding that international partnerships and academic expertise are essential for improving local health and community welfare.
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