Mariano Marcos
State University

MMSU opens BS Agroforestry program for AY 2026–2027

By Criztalene Victorio

Having fulfilled the prescribed requirements of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU)-Batac Campus was issued a Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) on August 3 to operate the Bachelor of Science in Agroforestry program this academic year 2026–2027.

Marking the 7th undergraduate offering under the College of Agriculture, Food and Sustainable Development (CAFSD), the BS Agroforestry program will focus on managing sustainable land, food, and wood resources while protecting the environment and helping local farming communities.

As stated by MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr. during the proposal presentation last July 1, this program offering will help students gain equal access to education, aligning the university's vision with its 7-Point SUCCEED Agenda.

“With the offering of the BS in Agroforestry at the university, we ensure that we live up to what ‘S’ in the SUCCEED agenda stands for, which is strategic access and equity,” Dr. Manzano stated.

CAFSD Dean Charlie Batin expressed delight over the swift approval of the new program by the Commission on Higher Education, noting that its establishment responds to the growing need for professionals who can integrate agriculture, forestry, and environmental conservation. He emphasized that the program will equip students with practical knowledge and skills relevant to sustainable resource management and community development.

The BS Agroforestry program also opens diverse career opportunities for graduates, including work as agroforestry specialists, forest and natural resource managers, environmental officers, agricultural technicians, extension workers, researchers, and development practitioners in government agencies, private organizations, non-government organizations, and agribusiness and environmental enterprises. Graduates may likewise pursue careers in sustainable agriculture, forest rehabilitation, watershed management, climate-smart farming, and community-based natural resource management.

The program will be offered at the MMSU-Batac Campus, providing students in Ilocos Norte and nearby provinces greater access to specialized education in agroforestry and sustainable land management.

Recognized by CHED as a Center of Development in agriculture and forestry, MMSU is prepared to deliver quality education and expert training to its students.