Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College Partners with Kasetsart University for Innovative Probiotics Research
Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC) has established a collaborative research initiative with the Institute of Food Research and Product Development (IFRPD) at Kasetsart University in Thailand, focusing on probiotics. This partnership occurred from April 21 to May 2, 2025, and aims to enhance the research capabilities and innovation within both institutions.
Research Collaboration on Probiotics
The initiative, titled “Research Collaboration and Immersion on Products with Freeze-Dried Probiotics,” involved faculty researchers Dr. Daniel Juan B. Ramirez from ISPSC’s Tagudin Campus and Dr. Desa Abaya from the Sta. Maria Campus. The collaboration promotes knowledge exchange, joint publication opportunities, and the development of innovative solutions that align with each institution’s strategic objectives.
Isolation of Beneficial Bacteria
In a related effort, the ISPSC Probiotics Team successfully isolated and identified beneficial lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains from Smallanthus sonchifolius, commonly known as yacon, which is indigenous to Cervantes, Ilocos Sur. This research contributes to the potential development of localized, natural probiotic supplements.
Commitment to Research Excellence
ISPSC President Dr. Mario P. Obrero underscored the commitment to advancing research in food safety and quality, noting that this academic endeavor aligns with the institution’s strategic goal of becoming a research-intensive university.
Promoting a Culture of Research
Additionally, Shirley C. Agrupis, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Chairperson of the ISPSC Board of Trustees, continues to promote a culture of research excellence within the ISPSC community.
Collaboration with Other Institutions
Complementing this partnership, ISPSC has initiated collaboration with Mariano Marcos State University and Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University on the CHED-led LAKAS project. This initiative focuses on advancing food systems through collaborative research between academia and industry, with the aim of enhancing food security in the region.
(Source: ISPSC News)
