Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Caraga State University (CSU) strengthened its leadership in transparent governance, accountable institutions, and inclusive policy engagement, contributing significantly to SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Through reforms in procurement, strategic governance initiatives, multi-agency collaborations, and community-based capacity building, CSU demonstrated strong institutional integrity and public-sector accountability.

CSU reinforced ethical and transparent governance through strict compliance with national government standards, including RA 9184, COA regulations, and GPPB procurement policies. These systems are reflected across the university’s internal reports and performance review documentation, highlighting CSU’s adherence to fair, competitive, and transparent public management practices. Evidence of institutional strengthening—particularly in research governance, extension programs, and innovation management—is recorded in CSU’s 2024 RDIE Annual Report (https://sustainability.carsu.edu.ph/2024-rdie-annual-report/), including multi-agency engagements and policy consultations (pp. 62–63, 76–77).

The university played a leading role in regional policy dialogues and inter-agency planning processes. CSU actively contributed to the Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2023–2028 Provincial Caravan (Jan 31, 2024), offering technical insights on inclusive development, climate resilience, and sustainable innovation in coordination with NEDA Caraga. These roles are documented on pages 62–63 of the RDIE Report.

CSU also convened national and regional agencies during the 2024 RDIE Agenda Setting Workshop (July 17–19, 2024), aligning the university’s 2025–2030 Research and Innovation Agenda with the Philippine Development Plan, Caraga RDP, DOST HNRDA, and the UN SDGs. Multi-agency coordination involving NEDA, DOST, DTI, DICT, DA, DENR, CHED, LGUs, and NGOs is recorded in the same report (pp. 76–77).

CSU also strengthened institutional collaboration through its involvement in regional innovation councils, including ReSEED, Caraga RISE, and startup ecosystem dialogues—platforms that promote transparent, participatory policy-making and evidence-driven planning. These engagements are recorded on pages 62–63, 76–77 of the RDIE Annual Report.

At the community level, CSU’s extension programs contributed to stronger local institutions by supporting LGUs, farmers, IP communities, and grassroots organizations. Through 22 active extension partnerships documented in the 2024 Extension Services Narrative Report, CSU helped LGUs integrate agriculture, climate action, inclusive education, and environmental governance into program development and policy implementation (pp. 1–5, 43–45).

Programs such as PAGLAHUTAY, the DSWD–CSU partnership for livelihood and anti-poverty strategies, strengthened local governance capacity and social protection systems through training, research, and knowledge transfer initiatives. This collaboration is documented in the university’s uploaded communications and external reports (2024).

CSU further contributed to strengthening institutions through international academic linkages under the International Forum on Sustainability Science (IFSS) via a MOA signed with UP Open University (July 10, 2024), enhancing shared governance frameworks in sustainability science education.

Through these initiatives—transparent governance, inclusive policy engagement, multi-sector partnerships, and community-centered institutional strengthening—CSU demonstrated a robust commitment to SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The university continues to cultivate an enabling environment where justice, accountability, and strong institutions are central to sustainable regional development.

16.1 Research on Peace and Justice

Caraga State University produced several research publications and conference outputs that directly advance SDG 16: Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions. Key outputs include studies on anti-corruption, ethical governance, procurement transparency, and institutional

Table 1. Article Publication Related to SDG 16

16.1.3 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: publications

Caraga State University (CSU) produced a range of publications, conference papers, and research outputs that advance transparent governance, community resilience, public-sector innovation, inclusive development, and strong institutions, contributing directly to SDG 16.

A significant portion of CSU’s research outputs presented in international conferences—particularly IEICES 2024 (50 papers), IEEE ASIANCON, and ICSINTESA 2024—included studies focused on digital governance, ICT-enabled public service delivery, smart community systems, and institutional innovation. Presentations on artificial intelligence for governance, digital transparency tools, cyber-resilience systems, and data-driven decision-making contribute to strengthening institutional capacities and promoting accountable, evidence-based administration. These outputs support peaceful and sustainable communities by improving the integrity, responsiveness, and efficiency of public-sector institutions.

CSU also contributed governance-oriented research through its work on smart agriculture systems (FarmVista), which was featured during ICSINTESA and in international academic exchanges. The system integrates remote monitoring, data analytics, and community-based decision tools—empowering LGUs and local institutions to manage agricultural resources more transparently and equitably, important components of just and accountable governance.

Research generated by CSU’s extension and innovation units also supports SDG 16. Studies on poverty alleviation, inclusive economic development, IP empowerment, disaster governance, and environmental monitoring were disseminated through regional policy consultations, the RDIE Agenda Setting, and the Caraga Regional Development Plan Caravan, where research was used to influence multi-agency decision-making. These outputs help strengthen institutional planning processes and reinforce evidence-based governance across the region.

Furthermore, CSU’s collaboration with national and regional agencies—such as DSWD (PAGLAHUTAY), NEDA, DA-BAFE (FaMRIA), CENRO–LGU Butuan (BACAS Biodiversity Assessment), and DOST Caraga—produced technical reports, assessment documents, and datasets that feed into local governance systems. These publications enhance policy transparency, improve institutional accountability, and support community-level peace and resilience through informed local decision-making.

Through its research publications, technical reports, and international conference outputs, CSU actively promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions, delivering scholarly work that strengthens governance systems, empowers vulnerable communities, enhances public-sector transparency, and supports inclusive and participatory development across the Caraga Region and beyond.

16.2 University governance measures

CSU demonstrates strong institutional governance and stakeholder inclusivity by ensuring that its highest governing body, the Board of Regents (BOR), includes elected representation from students (undergraduate and graduate), faculty, and non-faculty staff. According to the public BOR directory on the CSU website, the BOR membership includes: a Faculty Federation President, an Alumni Federation President, and a Student Federation President as members. carsu.edu.ph This structure confirms the institution’s commitment to participatory governance and ensures that key constituent groups have a direct voice in decision-making processes.

Caraga State University (CSU) demonstrates compliance with SDG 16.2.1 through its mandated governance structure under the Board of Regents (BOR), which includes elected representatives from key stakeholder sectors:

• Student Regent
• Faculty Regent
• Staff Regent / Employee Representative

These representatives ensure democratic participation, transparency, and accountability in decision-making, aligning with SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

16.2.2 Students’ Union

In 2024, Caraga State University (CSU) formally recognises its independent student union, the Supreme Student Government (SSG), which is clearly featured on the university’s website. Through the SSG’s constitutionally mandated role, the union provides governance input (through student representation in councils and the Board of Regents), supports student needs (organising orientations, advocacy, awards, and welfare initiatives), and conducts social activities (cultural festivals, sports meets, volunteer programmes, community outreach). The Student Council page on CSU’s website publicly lists the SSG’s structure, mandates, and activities (see carsu.edu.ph/student-council). This transparent public presentation confirms the union’s recognition, governance role, support services, and social engagement, fulfilling the criteria for student union recognition under SDG 16.2.2.

16.2.3 Identify and engage with local stakeholders

Caraga State University (CSU) has established clear written policies and procedures that ensure systematic identification and engagement of local stakeholders—including local residents, local government units (LGUs), industry partners, alumni, civil society organizations, and regional agencies. These policies are explicitly outlined in the Graduate School Operations Manual (2023), the Faculty Manual, and the Student Handbook, all of which demonstrate CSU’s institutional commitment to participatory governance and community partnership.

A central policy that formalizes CSU’s stakeholder engagement appears in the Graduate School Operations Manual (2023). It mandates that the Graduate School must proactively identify and invite external stakeholders to participate in academic decision-making processes, particularly during public thesis and dissertation defenses. The Manual states that CSU shall invite “stakeholders from both the internal academic community of the university and the external community composed of representatives from the alumni, industry, local government, civil society organizations and regional line agencies” to these academic activities.

This provision reflects a deliberate mechanism for identifying key external groups and engaging them in meaningful academic discourse, ensuring that community voices influence academic standards and research direction. As a 2023 institutional document, it also fulfills the requirement for policies created or reviewed within 2020–2024.

Further strengthening CSU’s stakeholder engagement framework are the policies outlined in the Faculty Manual, which require faculty members to participate in community-based extension programs that involve multiple local sectors. The Manual directs faculty to “participate in extension programs aimed at developing and implementing projects across sectors” and to collaborate with partners in various community settings.

These provisions illustrate CSU’s structured approach to engaging with LGUs, civil society organizations, and community groups, particularly in identifying local development needs and co-implementing extension initiatives.

CSU’s emphasis on sectoral engagement is reinforced through research-related policies wherein faculty are expected to “participate in formulating the research agenda for the department, college, and University.”

Research agenda-setting processes typically incorporate consultations with local government offices, regional line agencies, industry representatives, and community partners, thereby integrating local sector priorities into the university’s research planning.

Additionally, the Student Handbook promotes engagement with local stakeholders by requiring students to participate in civic and community development initiatives. It states that students must “participate actively in civic affairs… and in the social, economic, and cultural development of the community,” affirming CSU’s commitment to cultivating civic responsibility and fostering student involvement in community partnerships.

Collectively, these written policies demonstrate that CSU has a robust and comprehensive framework for identifying and engaging local stakeholders. The policies clearly outline who the stakeholders are, define how they are to be engaged, and embed these expectations into academic, research, and extension processes. All evidence is publicly available through official institutional documents published between 2020 and 2024, fully meeting the criteria required for THE Impact Rankings.

16.2.4 Participatory bodies for stakeholder engagement

Caraga State University (CSU) maintains several participatory bodies and mechanisms that allow local stakeholders—including local residents, local government units (LGUs), civil society organizations, barangay councils, and community-based groups—to meaningfully participate in university planning, program development, and decision-making.

Evidence for these mechanisms is available through public CSU documents, including the Student Handbook, Faculty Manual, and publicly posted university policies and programs.

1. Student Participation in Policy-Making

The Handbook explicitly states that students participate in developing policies that affect the University—this is a formal participatory body.

PAGE 50 – Student participation in policy formulation “to participate in the formulation and development of local, regional, and national policies affecting the University…”

This demonstrates stakeholder engagement for internal governance; student government often interacts with local stakeholders during community-engaged activities.

2. Rights to Organize—Community-Engaged Organizations

Student organizations may work with community groups, NGOs, and local stakeholders.

PAGE 50–51 – Participation through student organizations “to form, establish, join, and participate in organizations…”

These recognized groups often collaborate with LGUs, youth councils, and civil society partners.

3. Civic and Community Participation

The Student Handbook identifies civic participation and community development as student responsibilities—this is a participatory mechanism linking CSU students to local stakeholders.

PAGE 51 – Civic and community development participation “participate actively in civic affairs… in the social, economic, and cultural development of the community…”

This implies structured community engagement, especially during campus-community activities.

4. Extension and Community Engagement (Faculty Manual)

Faculty are required to participate in community extension projects—this is the clearest formal structure involving local residents, LGUs, and civil society organizations.

PAGE 23 – Faculty engagement in community extension programs “Participate in extension programs… developing and implementing projects across sectors.”

This section confirms that CSU’s extension programs function through cross-sector, community-based participation, involving LGUs, NGOs, barangays, and community partners.

5. Cross-Sector Collaboration

Faculty extension responsibilities explicitly state collaboration “across sectors.”

PAGE 23 – Cross-sector collaboration “Facilitate in developing and implementing projects across sectors; Collaborate across disciplines…”

This indicates mechanisms where CSU works with multiple stakeholders in joint planning and decision-making.

6. Research Agenda Setting With External Stakeholders

The Faculty Manual requires faculty to take part in formulating research agendas, which (in practice) includes LGUs and civil society.

PAGE 22 – Research agenda participation “Participate in formulating the research agenda for the department, college, and University.”

Research agenda formulation often includes consultations with external sectors (LGUs, industries, communities) although not explicitly stated on this page.

7. Consultative Mechanisms for Faculty and Stakeholders

The Faculty Manual mandates faculty consultation mechanisms that may extend to community or external partners when programs involve them.

PAGE 44 – Consultation meetings in performance evaluation “Sets consultation meeting of all Office Heads…”

While internal, this consultation structure supports multi-level governance, linking faculty, administrators, and indirect coordination with community-engaged projects.

Evidence:

• Student Handbook (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gttjjrE0TDCsl_Z83TxgBJNOxFJN0mWN/view )
• Faculty Manual https://sustainability.carsu.edu.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/N-Proposed-Faculty-Manual_compressed.pdf
• GS Manual https://sustainability.carsu.edu.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Graduate-School-Operation-Manual-2023_compressed.pdf

16.2.5 University principles on corruption and bribery

The CSU Student Handbook outlines explicit principles and disciplinary provisions that demonstrate the University’s firm stance against corruption, bribery, and dishonest conduct. These policies reflect the institution’s commitment to ethical behavior, integrity, and accountability within the campus community.

At the core of CSU’s Code of Student Conduct is the expectation that students uphold integrity, responsibility, respect, and trustworthiness in all their actions. The Handbook emphasizes that the University community must be governed by “standards of considerate and ethical behavior,” reinforcing CSU’s rejection of any acts that undermine fairness, honesty, or the reputation of the institution.

More explicitly, the Handbook enumerates bribery and related acts as major offenses under “Offenses Against Order.” Bribery is defined as either “giving or receiving a bribe, or any other form of enticement meant to give or obtain favor or advantage illegitimately or unfairly, whether attempted, frustrated, or consummated.”

This definition demonstrates CSU’s zero tolerance for corrupt acts, whether attempted or completed, recognizing the harm such acts inflict on fairness, academic integrity, and institutional trust.

Additionally, the Handbook contains broader anti-corruption principles through its prohibitions on dishonesty, falsification of documents, misrepresentation, gaining unfair advantage, and other forms of fraudulent conduct. These offenses—such as falsification of records, use of false identification, or submitting falsified information—are treated as serious violations with corresponding disciplinary sanctions.

Collectively, these policies illustrate CSU’s clear principles against corruption and bribery:

• Ethical conduct is a foundational expectation for all students.
• Any act intended to gain unfair advantage is prohibited.
• Bribery in any form—given or received—is a major offense.
• Dishonesty, falsification, and deceptive practices are strictly sanctioned.

Through these explicit rules and value statements, the Handbook shows CSU’s commitment to fostering a transparent, ethical, and corruption-free educational environment.

Evidence: Student Handbook (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gttjjrE0TDCsl_Z83TxgBJNOxFJN0mWN/view )

16.2.6 Academic freedom policy

While the CSU Student Handbook does not explicitly articulate a formal “Academic Freedom Policy” for faculty, the document presents a broader institutional context that affirms the University’s commitment to freedoms essential to academic life.

CSU’s philosophy emphasizes the dignity, integrity, and personal worth of every individual, recognizing education as a foundation for human development and intellectual growth. Embedded within this philosophy is the value placed on learning, truth, and freedom, all of which underpin an environment where inquiry and expression are encouraged. The Handbook further highlights the University’s mission to “generate new knowledge through research” and to strengthen research capabilities, which underscores CSU’s recognition of the importance of scholarly exploration and intellectual discovery.

In the context of the student body, the Handbook explicitly protects freedom of expression, allowing students to articulate opinions, publish articles, and access communication channels within the University community. Student publications are governed by mandates that defend freedom of speech, campus press freedom, and responsible journalism within the bounds of law and ethics.

These provisions reflect an institutional atmosphere where open discourse, intellectual exploration, and critical thinking are valued.

Similarly, CSU encourages participation in symposia, assemblies, and academic activities, providing learning spaces where ideas may be shared, debated, and refined. The right of students to choose their field of study, supported by academic counseling and guidance services, also aligns with the broader principle of freedom in academic decision-making.

Although the Handbook primarily outlines the rights and responsibilities of students rather than faculty, the presence of these elements—freedom of expression, support for responsible inquiry, and the institutional goal to strengthen research and knowledge generation—collectively contribute to a context that is supportive of academic freedom. This environment aligns with CSU’s broader commitment to nurturing an academic community where learning, truth, and the pursuit of knowledge are respected and upheld.

Evidence: Student Handbook (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gttjjrE0TDCsl_Z83TxgBJNOxFJN0mWN/view )

16.2.7 Publish financial data

Caraga State University (CSU) published detailed financial data that demonstrate the institution’s commitment to transparency and accountability, key facets of strong institutional governance under SDG 16.

• Existence of publication: On CSU’s official website, the Transparency Seal page lists “Annual Financial Reports” among its downloadable components, including the Statement of Appropriations, Allotments, Obligations, Disbursements & Balances (FAR 1) for FY 2024. edu.ph
  
• Evidence provided: The financial tables are publicly available online. For example, the University’s budget execution (via the Department of Budget and Management) shows figures for 2024 appropriations/obligations: 622,421 thousand pesos for CSU. Department of Budget and Management
  
• Public access: The Transparency Seal page is publicly accessible without login and lists downloadable reports (FY 2024 and earlier) under “Annual Financial Reports.” edu.ph

These publications provide stakeholders—students, faculty, staff, government, and the public—with insight into how CSU allocates and spends its resources, thereby supporting institutional accountability and trust.

16.3.1 Provide expert advice to government.

Caraga State University (CSU) consistently provided expert policy advice to local, regional, and national government agencies through technical consultations, committee participation, evidence-based research, and specialized sectoral guidance. These contributions demonstrate CSU’s strong role as a knowledge institution supporting transparent, accountable, and informed public-sector decision-making.

1. Expert Policy Guidance – Regional Development Planning

CSU served as a technical partner during the Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2023–2028 Provincial Caravan, led by NEDA Caraga (Jan 31, 2024). CSU experts contributed sectoral inputs on inclusive growth, innovation, climate resilience, and sustainability, providing evidence for regional policy alignment.
 Evidence: 2024 RDIE Annual Report, pp. 62–63.

2. Participation in Multi-Agency Committees – Research & Innovation Agenda Setting

During the RDIE Agenda Setting Workshop (July 17–19, 2024), CSU convened and advised national and regional agencies including NEDA, DOST, DTI, DICT, DA, DENR, CHED, LGUs, and NGOs. CSUs experts guided the alignment of regional R&D priorities with the Philippine Development Plan, Caraga RDP, DOST HNRDA, and SDGs.
 Evidence: 2024 RDIE Annual Report, pp. 76–77.

3. Provision of Evidence for Government Programs – Agriculture, Environment & Innovation

CSU provided scientific evidence and technical analysis in multiple government-led initiatives:

• FaMRIA Project with DA-BAFE – supplying research evidence on farm-to-market road impacts (May 24, 2024).
• BACAS Biodiversity Assessment with CENRO–LGU Butuan City & LGU Sumile – informing Local Conservation Area designation.
• Abaca Disease Surveillance with PhilFIDA & DA-BIOTECH – supporting agricultural disease management.
• Startup & Innovation Policy Ecosystem (ReSEED & Caraga RISE) – co-developing regional innovation frameworks with DOST, DTI, DICT.
  Evidence: Extension Services Narrative Report 2024, pp. 43–45; RDIE Annual Report, pp. 118–121.

4. National-Level Governance & Policy Engagement

CSU participated in national consultative bodies and conferences that shape government R&D funding and policy priorities:

• DOST Mindanao Cluster Call Conference (Jan 18, 2024) – advising on science-based national priority areas.
• UPOU–CSU MOA under IFSS (July 10, 2024) – contributing to national sustainability science policies.
  Evidence: 2024 RDIE Annual Report; IFSS MOA Public Post (2024).

5. Public Accessibility of Evidence

All above engagements are publicly documented through:

• CSU website and sustainability portal
• Facebook official pages of CSU, DOST Caraga, NEDA, DA-BAFE
• 2024 RDIE & Extension Services Reports (public institutional documents)

16.3.2 Policy- and lawmakers outreach and education

Caraga State University (CSU) actively engaged in policy-oriented outreach and capacity-building initiatives for government officials, policymakers, and regional development councils, demonstrating strong alignment with SDG 16’s focus on transparent, accountable, and informed public institutions.

1. Capacity-Building for Regional Policymakers on Innovation, Governance, and R&D Planning

CSU provided technical guidance and conducted capacity-building activities for government agencies during the 2024 RDIE Agenda Setting Workshop (July 17–19, 2024), involving policymakers from NEDA, DOST, DTI, DICT, DA, DENR, CHED, and LGUs. The workshop emphasized strategic foresight, evidence-based governance, and alignment of research priorities with national and regional development plans. Evidence: RDIE Annual Report 2024, pp. 76–77.

2. Training and Education for Policymakers on Climate Change and Sustainability Science

Through the 2nd LIKHA Summit and its integrated Regional Climate Change Action & Innovation Forum, CSU delivered policy education to LGU officials, DENR representatives, disaster risk managers, and regional planners on climate change mitigation, resilience planning, and sustainability science. Evidence: RDIE Report 2024, pp. 62–63. https://sustainability.carsu.edu.ph/2024-rdie-annual-report/

CSU also strengthened national-level governance through its partnership with UP Open University via the International Forum on Sustainability Science (IFSS), which focuses on capacity development and policy education on sustainability. Evidence: IFSS MOA announcement (2024).

3. Technology and Innovation Policy Education for Government and Industry

CSU conducted multiple policy-oriented outreach programs for policymakers and industry stakeholders through:

• ReSEED Startup Ecosystem Dialogues – training LGUs and regional councils on innovation governance and startup policy.
• Caraga RISE Innovation Programs – capacity-building on digital innovation, intellectual property, and technology adoption.

DOST Mindanao Cluster Call Conference (Jan 18, 2024) – CSU experts guided national priority-setting for R&D funding and technology policy.
 Evidence: RDIE Report 2024, pp. 118–121. https://sustainability.carsu.edu.ph/2024-rdie-annual-report/

4. Agriculture, Food Security, and Land Governance Policy Education

CSU supported LGUs and national agencies by providing technical training and evidence on climate-resilient agriculture, abaca disease control, sustainable farming, and food safety.
 Key initiatives included:

• DA-BAFE FaMRIA Project – training policymakers on farm-to-market road impact assessment.
• PhilFIDA Abaca Disease Surveillance Training – upskilling LGUs and DA regional staff.
• Food Innovation & Safety Program Launch – capacity-building for regulators and industry on food safety and responsible production.
  Evidence: Extension Narrative Report 2024, pp. 1–5, 43–45. https://sustainability.carsu.edu.ph/2024-rdie-annual-report/

5. Community-Level Policymaker Training and IP Governance Education

CSU provided governance education to barangay-level policymakers through:

• MUGNA CARAGA and GRIND projects – upskilling local leaders and IP elders on livelihood governance, participatory decision-making, and institutional strengthening.
  Evidence: RDIE Report 2024, pp. 44–45. https://sustainability.carsu.edu.ph/2024-rdie-annual-report/

16.3.3 Participation in government research

Caraga State University (CSU) actively collaborated with national and local government agencies on policy-focused research that informed public-sector decision-making, regional development planning, environmental management, and agricultural innovation. These projects demonstrate CSU’s strong role as a research partner supporting evidence-based governance in line with SDG 16.

1. Farm-to-Market Road Impact Assessment (FaMRIA)

CSU collaborated with the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering (DA-BAFE) to conduct the Farm-to-Market Road Impact Assessment (FaMRIA), launched on May 24, 2024. The research evaluates the socio-economic and environmental impacts of FMR infrastructure to guide national agricultural and rural development policies. Evidence: Extension Narrative Report 2024; RDIE Annual Report 2024 (Public MOU Announcement).

2. Biodiversity Assessment for Policy on Local Conservation Areas (LCA)

Through CREME, CSU conducted multi-taxa biodiversity assessments in Barangay Sumile (BACAS) in partnership with CENRO–LGU Butuan City and LGU Sumile. The research provides scientific basis for declaring the area a Local Conservation Area, guiding LGU environmental governance and land-use policy. Evidence: RDIE Annual Report 2024, pp. 44–45.

3. Abaca Disease Research with PhilFIDA and DA-BIOTECH

CSU collaborated with PhilFIDA and DA-BIOTECH on abaca viral disease surveillance and pathogen detection. Results support national policy for disease control, resilient crop production, and farmer support programs. Evidence: Extension Narrative Report 2024, pp. 43–45.

4. Climate Change, Disaster Risk & Environmental Research with LGUs and National Agencies

CSU generated policy-oriented research through partnerships with DENR, LGUs, DOST Caraga, NEDA, and local planning offices as part of climate action, land rehabilitation, and disaster preparedness initiatives.

• Research outputs were used during the Regional Climate Change Action and Innovation Forum (LIKHA Summit).
• CSU researchers presented evidence for climate-resilient systems and environmental monitoring. Evidence: RDIE Annual Report 2024, pp. 62–63.

5. Startup Ecosystem and Innovation Policy Research (ReSEED, Caraga RISE)

In collaboration with DOST, DICT, DTI, and CHED, CSU conducted research for developing regional innovation policy frameworks, startup ecosystem maps, and digital transformation strategies. Evidence: RDIE Annual Report 2024, pp. 118–121.

6. Local Governance and Inclusive Development Research (GRIND & MUGNA)

CSU partnered with DOST Caraga and LGUs to generate research supporting inclusive governance for IP communities, women, and marginalized groups. Evidence: FY 2024 APRR (Jan–June), p. 101.

16.3.4 Neutral platform to discuss issues

Caraga State University (CSU) consistently provided neutral, safe, and inclusive platforms for multi-sectoral dialogue in 2024. Across regional conferences, policy consultations, innovation forums, and community engagements, CSU served as a trusted convener where stakeholders from government, NGOs, academe, industry, and IP communities engaged in open, evidence-based discussions.

1. LIKHA Summit 2024 – Multi-sectoral Dialogue Platform

The 2nd LIKHA Summit (October 28–31, 2024) functioned as a safe, neutral convening space bringing together government agencies (DOST, NEDA, DICT, DA, DENR), NGOs, LGUs, HEIs, and industry.

• Discussions addressed climate action, inclusive innovation, research policy, sustainability, and education.
• Includes the Regional Climate Change Action & Innovation Forum, CISCON, and LIKHA-DUNONG.

Evidence:

• RDIE Annual Report 2024 — pp. 62–63, 76–77 2024 RDIE Annual Report
• Public website announcement: LIKHA Summit 2024 page (likhasummit.carsu.edu.ph)

2. Regional Development Plan (RDP) Provincial Caravan – Public Policy Dialogue

CSU joined the Caraga RDP 2023–2028 Provincial Caravan led by NEDA Caraga, participating in regional discussions involving LGUs, CSOs, industry, and academe. CSU contributed research inputs and facilitated evidence-driven dialogue in a non-political, neutral environment.

Evidence:

• RDIE Annual Report 2024 — pp. 62–63 https://sustainability.carsu.edu.ph/2024-rdie-annual-report/

Public post by NEDA Caraga (2024)

3. ReSEED & Caraga RISE Innovation Dialogues

CSU hosted neutral innovation ecosystem discussions with DOST, DICT, DTI, LGUs, private sector, and NGOs (Wadhwani Foundation).
 Key outputs involved co-developing policies on innovation support, startup development, and technology governance.

Evidence:

• RDIE Annual Report 2024 — pp. 118–121 2024 RDIE Annual Report

Public partner evidence: DOST Caraga and DTI Caraga Facebook pages

4. Safe Spaces Program – Institutional Guarantee of Safe, Neutral Dialogues

The CSU Safe Spaces Program (2024) formalized CSU as a protected, harassment-free environment for sensitive discussions involving gender rights, student welfare, community safety, and conflict-sensitive topics. This institutional framework ensures that CSU-hosted forums remain neutral and safe for all political, social, and demographic groups.

Evidence: Proposed Safe Spaces Program (uploaded file) — pp. 1–12 (https://sustainability.carsu.edu.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Proposed-Safe-Spaces-Program_compressed.pdf )

5. Indigenous Peoples & Grassroots Governance Dialogues (MUGNA & GRIND)

CSU facilitated dialogues involving IP communities, LGUs, NGOs, faculty, and students through MUGNA CARAGA and GRIND.
 Topics included livelihood governance, cultural preservation, education, and community empowerment.
 CSU served as a neutral academic host, ensuring respect, safety, and equitable participation.

Evidence:

• FY 2024 APRR (Jan–June) — p. 101 FY 2024 APRR (Jan-June)
• RDIE Annual Report 2024 — pp. 44–45 2024 RDIE Annual Report

6. Academic-Policy Forums & Conferences (Technology, Climate, Governance)

CSU hosted numerous academic forums that served as neutral spaces for policy dialogue, including:

• Climate Action & Innovation Forum
• Food Innovation & Safety Program Launch
• Research Agenda Setting with national agencies
• Multi-agency extension planning with LGUs and DA, PhilFIDA, and DOST

Evidence:

• Extension Narrative Report 2024 — pp. 1–5, 43–45 https://sustainability.carsu.edu.ph/2024-annual-report/#2024-Extension-Services-Narrative-Report
• RDIE Annual Report 2024 — pp. 62–63, 76–77 2024 https://sustainability.carsu.edu.ph/2024-rdie-annual-report/