Governance and Policy Research Center

Governance and Policy Research Center FRONT

CENTER CHIEF: FLORIDA U. URSULOM

STAFF:

    • CARL VINCENT S. ALFORO
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About the Center

The Center shall coordinate the conduct of academic research in the fields of Governance, Public Administration, Law, or Policy. Conduct research-related activities such as training along research methodologies, research and ethics review, consultancy services, conferences, and research/journal publications and contribute to effective policies and programs for good governance and quality of life.

VISION

The Governance and Policy Research Center (GPRC) …

MISSION

…

OBJECTIVES

To contribute in the effective implementation of policies and programs for good governance and quality of life through the facilitation of:

  • knowledge-creation along policy researches and studies in governance and administration;
  • smooth implementation of programs, projects and activities related to policy studies and governance;
  • coordination the conduct of academic research and policy studies in the fields of Law, Public Administration and Governance, Criminal Justice Education, Social Work and Political Science and
  • coordination with University Research and Development Office (URDO), conduct related research activities such as training along research methodologies, research and ethics review, consultancy services, conferences and research/journal publications.

PRIORITY AREAS OF THE GOVERNANCE AND POLICY RESEARCH CENTER

Biodiversity Assessment

Biodiversity plays a vital role in supporting human life by providing essential resources such as food and medicine. However, climate change, environmental variability, and human activities continue to threaten ecosystems, highlighting the urgent need for biodiversity assessment studies.

Given the rich coastal ecosystems of the country and the province—such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds—the University, through the AMRRDC, encourages research focused on biodiversity assessment in aquamarine habitats. Assessing biodiversity is essential for identifying priority areas for conservation, guiding management strategies, and promoting sustainable and climate-resilient practices to protect and conserve marine and coastal resources.

Aquaculture Technology

Research on the development and improvement of aquaculture production is a key priority of the University through the AMRRDC. This includes the cultivation of fish, mollusks, seaweed, and other aqua-marine commodities, with a focus on introducing new technologies and improving existing methods to enhance productivity and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for coastal communities.

Past initiatives, such as sea urchin and oyster cage culture, have been successfully adopted by local fisherfolk, demonstrating the potential of research outputs to support community-based income-generating projects. Ongoing innovation and technology adaptation continue to strengthen aquaculture production and contribute to sustainable coastal resource management.

Research on post-harvest management focuses on ensuring the quality, safety, and marketability of aquaculture and fishery products. This includes studies on product quality assessment, supply chain analysis, food safety, shelf-life, and good manufacturing practices in handling, processing, packing, and labeling. In addition, product development and value-adding through the adoption of new technologies and innovation of existing methods are emphasized to enhance commercialization opportunities, expand markets, and support sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities.

This priority area focuses on the sustainable management of aqua-marine and fishery resources and their effects on livelihoods and community well-being. It considers biological, economic, social, and governance factors that influence fisheries and coastal communities.

Understanding the condition of the fishery sector provides a basis for developing appropriate livelihood and business interventions, as well as for supporting evidence-based policies, management plans, and strategies that improve the quality of life of fishing communities.

Researches

Completed

  • (2025) The Open Burning Policy: Myth or Reality?

    Joselito D. De La Rosa, Sina C. Bestre, Ivy C. Cariño

  • (2025) Revisiting the Performance and Experiences of the Sangguniang Kabataan in the Province of Ilocos Sur
    Madeline A. Lopez, Joana E. Rivad
  • (2025) Potential of Community-based Aqua Tourism Destination: Basis for a Development Plan
    Marjorie R. Dafun, Jill Ann R. Paranada, Grace A. Garcia, Charo B. Rojas, May Evelia V. Ruadap
  • (2025) The Implementation of RA 9262 (Anti-VAWC) in the Province of Ilocos Sur

    Meilyn P. Unciano, Florida U. Ursulom, Aurora R. Quero, Froilan S. Unciano, Mae Oliva M. Piano, Jacqueline F. Castillo

  • (2025) Awareness and Observance of the Bawal Bastos Law (RA 11313) in the UNP

    Florida Ursulom, Cid Javier, Abelardo Anicas, Arnold Pio

  • (2025) Implementation of RA8485 (Animal Welfare Act of 1998) in the Province of Ilocos Sur

    Florida U. Ursulom, Alma C. Somera, Joselito D. Dela Rosa

  • (2025) Knowledge and Compliance on RA 10913 (Anti-Distracted Driving Act) in the Province of Ilocos Sur

    Florida U. Ursulom
    Loraine Ann R. Madera, Randolf M. Agup, Ruben R. Ragunjan

  • (2025) Punishable Acts of Modification and Motorized Vehicle in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

    Kevin Mel Pacpaco

(2024-2020)

  • Implementation of RA 11525 – COVID-19 Vaccination (Bayanihan to Heal as One Act)

    Florida U. Ursulom, Society Salcedo, Cid A. Javier

  • Client Satisfaction Feedback In HEIs: Basis In Enhancing Public Service Delivery

    Eleanor R. Belizar, Rizza P. Cajindos

  • LGU Initiatives of Region I in Addressing COVID-19 Pandemic

    Joselito D. De La Rosa, Abelardo A. Anicas
    Madeline A. Lopez, Loraine R. Madera

  • The Acceptability of Full Devolution of Functions in Local Government Units

    Joselito D. De La Rosa, Archie Martinez

  • E-Kapitolyo: Digitalization of Public Administration Services in the Province of Ilocos Sur
    Florida U. Ursulom,
    Loraine R. Madera, Abelardo A. Anicas, Arnold P. Pio
  • Mainstreaming Ambisyon Natin 2040 and Sustainable Development Goals in the University of Northern Philippines
    Erwin F. Cadorna, Joselito dela Rosa, Archie Martinez
  • Awareness and Practices of UNP Personnel in the Implementation of Pollution control Laws by Major Hazardous Waste Generators: A Basis in the Establishment of Pollution Control Office for the University of Northern Philippines

    Miriam Javier, Cid Javier, Jose Pichay, Irene Aguilar

  • Records Management of State Universities and Colleges in Northern Philippines

    Loraine Ann R. Madera

  • Awareness and Availment of the Philippine Basic consumer Rights among Filipinos in New Zealand

    Florida Ursulom, Joselito dela Rosa, Abelardo Anicas, Cid Javier, Alma Somera

  • Effectiveness of Advocacy Extension Services Program: The Case of the University of Northern Philippines

    Florida Ursulom, Madeline Lopez

  • Awareness, Acceptability, and Perception of the College of Public Administrations’ Stakeholders Towards the Vision, Mission, Goals and Objectives

    Ruben Ragunjan, Abelardo Anicas

ongoing

  • Child Sexual Exploitation in the Province of Ilocos Sur: Basis for Policy Recommendation

    Jacqueline F. Castillo, Myline C. Aleson, Lorna C. Navarro, George Philippe Amano, Daroll Rabina

  • Status of NSTP in the University of Northern Philippines: Basis for Policy Recommendation

    Carlo Ventura, Ana Leah Alconis

  • The Lipit System Practices among Indigenous People in a Municipality of Ilocos Sur
    Society V. Salcedo, Joana E. Rivad, Ivy C. Cariño
  • Implementation and effectiveness of TUPAD Program in Ilocos Sur: A study on employment outcomes and socio-economic impact
    Abelardo A. Anicas, Florida U. Ursulom, Ruben R. Ragunjan, Randolf M. Agup, Ressie Hilario
  • Assessing the Effectiveness of Resource Allocation Policies for Small Farmers in Ilocos Sur
    Cid A. Javier, Rowell Castillo, Marc Adrian Tabisula, Harlene May Sunio
  • Assistance to Individuals in Crisis (AICS) Program: Initiatives and Practices in Ilocos Sur
    Loraine Ann R. Madera, Madeline A. Lopez, Joana E. Rivad, Ruben R. Ragunjan
  • The Implementation of the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) Administrative Order 04, s. 2004 (regulating the Distance between Poultry and Livestock Farms in the Philippines) in the Province of Ilocos Sur
    Florida U. Ursulom, Alma C. Somera, Marc Adrian Tabisula, Joselito D. Dela Rosa, Tiffany Quinitip
  • Transportation and Traffic Code of the Philippines of the University of Northern Philippines: A Basis for Policy Recommendation
    Meilyn P. Unciano, Florida U. Ursulom, Rowell Castillo, Cid A. Javier, Harlene May Sunio
  • Aspirations of Small-Hold Farmers in Ilocos Sur: A basis for Policy Recommendations
    Meilyn P. Unciano Abelardo A. Anicas, Froilan S. Unciano, Marc Adrian Tabisula
  • Implementation of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Program in the Province of Ilocos Sur
    Ivy C. Cariño, Marc Adrian Tabisula, Harlene May Sunio, Rowell Castillo
  • Status and Implementation of the Regulation of the Piggery and Poultry Farmers’ Operation in the Province of Ilocos Sur
    Arnold Pio, Abelardo A. Anicas, Society V. Salcedo, Alma C. Somera
  • Cross-Dressing: Experiences of LGBT Students in a State University
    Mae Oliva M. Piano
  • The Provincial Health Board and the Universal Health Act of 2019: The Case of La Union
    Atty. Verselie E. Limos

GPRC SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES

AMRRDC KROPEK 1

Kropek and Bagoong Monamon

Gracilaria Kropek are crispy seaweed-based snack innovations enhanced with Gracilaria, offering a light and flavorful crunch. Available in Plain, Cheese, and Sour Cream, these kropek highlight the versatility of seaweed and its potential as a sustainable ingredient for developing unique and nutritious food products.

Bagoong Monamon is a traditional Filipino fermented fish condiment made from salt-cured anchovies, offering a rich, savory flavor and distinct aroma. Commonly used as a dip, seasoning, or ingredient in sautéed dishes, it adds depth and authentic coastal taste to a wide variety of Filipino meals.

AMRRDC GRACILARIA SALAD

Gracilaria Salad

Gracilaria Salad is a fresh and nutritious seaweed dish made from Gracilaria, offering a crisp texture and naturally clean ocean flavor. Tossed with simple seasonings, it provides a healthy, refreshing option that highlights seaweed’s versatility as a sustainable food ingredient.

AMRRDC PANCIT NOODLES

Gracilaria-enhanced Fresh Pancit Noodles

Gracilaria-Enhanced Fresh Pancit Noodles are formulated by incorporating Gracilaria seaweed puree into traditional noodle preparation. This innovation not only boosts the nutritional value of traditional pancit but also promotes the use of sustainable marine resources in food products.

AMRRDC ICE CREAM

Gracilaria-enhanced Ice Cream

Gracilaria-Enhanced Ice Cream is a creamy dessert infused with Gracilaria seaweed, offering a unique flavor twist and smooth texture to the traditional treat. This innovation not only introduces a novel way of enjoying ice cream but also promotes the creative use of sustainable marine resources in food products.

AMRRDC GRACILARIA FISH SHANGHAI

Gracilaria-enhanced Fish Shanghai

Gracilaria-Enhanced Fish Shanghai is a flavorful version of the classic spring roll, innovated with Gracilaria seaweed blended into its filling. This enhancement adds a unique touch to the traditional fish shanghai while showcasing the potential of sustainable marine resources in food innovations.