Geographic Information Systems Technology Center

The UPLB Office for Institutional Development and Higher Education (OIDHE) and the UPLB
Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, held a collaborative meeting today,
April 13, 2026, with Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) to explore synergistic opportunities
for institutional growth.

The discussion focused on identifying possible collaborative projects specifically geared toward
the promotion of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular emphasis on
agriculture and artificial intelligence (AI). Both institutions highlighted the importance of
developing projects that prioritize high-impact outcomes and foster groundbreaking innovation
to address modern challenges.

The SLSU delegation was led by Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, Vice President for Research,
Innovation, and Extension Services, and members of SLSU research units, Mr. Joel Infornon,
Ms. Jannie Fleur V. Oraño, Mr. Omar D. Alo, Dr. Mark B. Galdo, Mr. Wade Lim, Mr. Ludito
Ramirez, Ms. Gladys Pascual, Engr. Khorina O. Aguilar, and Ms. Mille Vero.

Representing UPLB were Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, Dr. Nathaniel C.
Bantayan, and OIDHE Director, Dr. Jenielyn T. Padrones.

UPLB remains committed to driving innovation and excellence through proactive institutional
engagement!

Our SLSU YouthMappers officers have officially kicked off their participation at the Visayas Geodetic Engineering Student Conference (VisGESC) 2026, held at the RDE Hall, Visayas State University, Baybay City, Leyte! Day 1 was filled with meaningful learning experiences--from insightful industry talks to engaging discussions that highlight the evolving role of GIS and geospatial science in building sustainable communities.

This experience marks an important step in strengthening their technical knowledge, leadership, and collaboration as student leaders. More importantly, it opens opportunities for connection, knowledge change, and inspiration alongside fellow YouthMappers and geodetic engineering students.

The Geographic Information Systems Technology Center (GISTC) of Southern Leyte State University conducted a series of water source mapping and water sampling activities in selected barangays of Maasin City as part of the DOST–PCHRD-funded research project entitled “Development of a GIS-Based Intervention to Assess Water Quality: Bases for Mitigating Water-Borne Diseases in Maasin City, Southern Leyte.”

The activity involved the geotagging and mapping of various water sources, including springs, wells, and communal water systems, alongside the collection of water samples for quality assessment. These efforts aim to generate accurate spatial data and scientific evidence that can help identify potential risks associated with water-borne diseases in local communities.

Through field validation and close coordination with barangay officials and community members, the project team documented the location, type, and condition of water sources, ensuring that each site is accurately represented in the project’s GIS database.

The collected water samples underwent laboratory analysis to determine key water quality parameters. The results will be used as inputs for policy development to guide evidence-based water safety management and public health interventions. This initiative highlights the important role of GIS and community collaboration in promoting evidence-based solutions for sustainable water resource management and the protection of public health.