ISU Ilagan Launches Batch 11 of Barangay Electrician Training Program

Isabela State University (ISU) Ilagan Campus, through its Extension and Training Services Program in collaboration with the Electrical Engineering Department, formally launched Batch 11 of the Enhanced and Expanded Barangay Electrician Seminar and Training in Building Wiring Installation (Project EE-BEST in BWI) on August 5, 2025, at the New CEAT Audio-Visual Room.

Now on its 11th implementation cycle since its inception in 2014, the program remains committed to strengthening the technical competencies and capacities of grassroots electricians. The initiative aims to equip participants with essential skills in building wiring installation while promoting safety, livelihood opportunities, and community development.

The opening program featured inspiring messages from CEAT Dean Dr. Crestian A. Agustin, who reiterated the University’s strong commitment to community engagement and empowerment. Meanwhile, Sir Armand Francis C. Ruma, speaking on behalf of CEO Engr. Alfonso R. Simon, highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration between academic institutions and industry partners in advancing technical education. Engr. Freddie O. Orperia, Project Leader, presented the program’s rationale, emphasizing its anchoring on the S.E.E.S. framework—Safety, Economic Empowerment, and Social Impact. This framework serves as the guiding principle in delivering meaningful and sustainable extension services to local communities.

One of the highlights of the event was the recognition of Project EE-BEST in BWI as the Third Best Paper Awardee during the 2024 PAEPI International Extension Conference held in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This accolade affirms the program’s excellence and effectiveness in community-based technical education.

The activity was further supported by Ma’am Precious Joy L. Ramos, Director for Extension and Training Services; Engr. Arnold L. Alburo, Director for Quality Assurance; and faculty members of the Electrical Engineering Department led by Program Chair Ma’am Mary Grace M. Baquiran.

Project EE-BEST in BWI is a joint undertaking of ISU Ilagan, Gigawatt Review Center, ISELCO II, and the IIEE Isabela-Quirino Chapter. Through its continuous implementation and expanding reach, the program continues to contribute to safer electrical practices, improved technical expertise, and inclusive community development across the region.

The electricians of Batch 11 of the Barangay Electrician Training Program, together with the IIEE–ISU-I Student Chapter, and in coordination with Ma’am Precious Joy L. Ramos, Director for Extension and Training Services; Engr. Arnold L. Alburo, Director for Quality Assurance; and faculty members of the Electrical Engineering Department led by Program Chair Ma’am Mary Grace M. Baquiran, organized the activity.

[ Correspondent : ISU-Ilagan Electrical Engineering Department]