Selected TGP Components Turned Over to DA-ATI

Selected components of Techno Gabay Program (TGP) were recently tuned over to DA-Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) during formal turn over ceremonies held at the Asian Institute of Management  Conference Center in Makati City last October 18, 2012.

Dr. Allan Alimodian of DA-ATI &
Dr. Noeni Nepomuceno of WESVARRDEC

 

Under Executive Order No. 801, "Encouraging local government units to adopt the Techno Gabay in their agricultural extension programs  and the concerned government agencies to provide the required assistance  for the purpose," a joint memorandum circular from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Interior and Local Government  (DILG), and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) was released specifically for the development of the  EO's Implementing Rules  and Regulations (IRR). The IRR will provide the necessary guidelines in the institutionalization of the TGP such as the arrangements between institutions, roles of each agency, as well as their adoption mechanisms.

The signing of the IRR by the agencies involved--Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) and the DA- Agricultural Training Institute  (DA-ATI) was the rationale behind the conduct of the formal turnover of the program. The formal turnover involved the transfer of program documents like the Manual of Operations, list of Farmers Information and Technology Services (FITS) Centers and their status, and the list of Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) among others.

Batad FITS Center hosts 3rd corn congress

By Deodith Grace Honrado-Baticbatic& Sally R. Villasis


The Batad Farmers Information and Technology Services Center, on its 3rd year of showcasing the technology on open-pollinated corn varieties (OPV), hosted another corn congress on October 11, 2012 at Northern Iloilo Polytechnic State College (NIPSC), Batad Campus in Batad, Iloilo.

Some 150 participants were gathered to witness the 3rd Corn Congress at Iba Pa with the theme: “MaayongamgaPamaagisaPagpanguma: Yabe sang Pagpakigkompetensya.” 

The participants include corn farmers, agriculture students, representatives from different seeds, pesticides and fertilizer companies, municipal and government officials, heads and representatives of different  agencies such as Department of Agriculture - Regional Field Unit 6, Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center VI, Iloilo Provincial Agriculture and National Food Authority – Iloilo. Present also are representatives from Aklan State University, Capiz State University and Western Visayas Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Consortium (WESVARRDEC). 

Mr. Ricardo Ayupan, NIPSC Batad’s college administrator stressed during his opening remarks that the economics of corn industry is on high demand especially in the livestock industry, which is vastly growing in our country.

Batad Municipal Mayor Pedro Alarcon, in his welcome speech, encouraged the farmers to plant open pollinated varieties of corn as it can serve as alternative for rice. 

He also convinced the farmers to apply organic fertilizers to prevent the soil from becoming acidic and to achieve high production.

Maximum land utilization is the primary aim of the 3rd corn congress, this is according to Batad FITS Manager Eva Montero. 

She emphasized in her message, “bisananokagamayang area konang farmers kabalo mag-maximize sigurado, kwartagidina.” This is an assurance that farmers will have steady income and steady food on the table,” she added. 

She said that out of 4,300 square meter demonstration farm, they were able to plant hybrid aromatic rice, different kinds of vegetables, where the agriculture students were able to harvest every other day, with corn as the major crop. Among others, she proudly announced that the municipality of Batad is the first municipality to hold a corn congress.

Regional Corn Coordinator Ricardo Saltin, in his message, pronounced that the 8th National Corn Congress in Davao has also the same theme as the Batad 3rd Corn Congress, that is to be able to develop good farming practices to achieve high corn production and become globally competitive.

Representing Western Visayas Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Consortium (WESVARRDEC), Dr. Reynaldo N. Dusaran, Regional Techno Gabay coordinator advocated the use of open pollinated varieties (OPV)  as well as the use of organic fertilizer to minimize the cost of farm inputs and to reduce the cause of soil acidity.

Dr. Ildefonso Toledo, Iloilo Provincial Agriculturist stressed in his message that farmers should go organic today because of climate change. It is a mitigating factor to reduce its effect on the crops as well as in protecting the environment.
  
Mr. Ricardo Saltin of DA-RFU 6 who represented Regional Executive Director Larry P. Nacionales led the group during the cutting of ribbon. Together with him are ATI-RTC VI representative Dr. Allan Alimodian, Iloilo Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Toledo, Batad Municipal Mayor Alarcon and NIPSC Batad Campus College Administrator Mr. Ricardo Ayupan. Batad FITS Manager Eva Montejo toured the group on the FITS site.

Mr. Eduardo Navarra, TGP Team Leader of Capiz State University Mambusao Campus shared the technology on Preparation of Concoctions as Foliar Fertilizer for Organic Corn during the technology forum.

WESVARRDEC’s 22nd RSRDH: A showcase of outstanding trends and breakthroughs

By Deodith Grace Honrado-Baticbatic & Sally R. Villasis
RACG Staff & Coordinator 

(22nd RSRDH guests, participants, evaluators and facilitators)
Photo from Capiz Provincial Press Bureau

“This gathering of all researchers of state colleges and universities and other private     agencies in Western Visayas will undoubtedly be a showcase of outstanding trends and breakthroughs in various scientific and academic endeavours.I commend everyone who has done a painstakingly good job in ensuring that we assemble the best and the brightest minds not only in the region, but in the whole country as well to explore new technologies that will create a great impact leading to continued progress and sustainable development.” 

This is the message of the Regional Research and Development Coordinating Council Chair Dr. Joel P. Limson during the 22nd Regional Symposium on Research and Development Highlights held on October 8, 2012 at Dadivas Hall, Capiz State University in Roxas City. 

This year’s RSRDH aimed to present the most significant R&D findings among Consortium’s Member Agencies in Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources. It also provided a venue for the sharing of knowledge and experiences among researchers to foster collaboration and integration of multi-agency undertakings. Likewise, the symposium aimed to select outstanding technologies generated in agriculture and natural resources for awarding purposes and nomination on potentially mature technologies.

Dr. Editha L. Magallanes, Capiz State University (CapSU) president welcomed the guests, participants, evaluators and facilitators of the event. The opening program was graced by Governor Victor A. Tanco who expressed his commitment in supporting the development of agricultural sector through the conduct of researches to further enhance the economy.

Present also during the occasion is the Representative of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD’s), Dr. Dalisay Fernandez, University of the Philippnes Visayas Chancellor Dr. Rommel Espinosa and the new President of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC), Dr. Luis Sorolla.

This 22nd RSRDH had gathered some 34 Research Papers from different Partner Member Agencies.  Of these, 19 papers are under the Natural/Biological Research Category, 13 papers on the Social Science Category and one entry for the Developmental Category. Likewise, the Poster Category has 21entries.

22nd RSRDH Winners

Winners of the 22nd Regional Symposium on Research and Development Highlights

Dadivas Hall, Capiz State University, Roxas City

08 October 2012

NATURAL/BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH CATEGORY

Best Paper

Utilization of BeauveriaBassiana as Biocontrol for Fruitflies  (BactoceraPhilippinensis) through Autodissemination

Authors: Helen G. Bignayan, Ruth F. Jardeleza, Genoveva G. Macahilo

Agency: DA-BPI National Mango Research and Development Center

1st Runner-up

Physico-Chemical assessment of the Jalaur River System, Iloilo Philippines

Authors: Ilda G. Borlongan, Nelson V. Golez and FelizardoLorque

Agency: Central Philippine University

2nd Runner-up

Breed Method Used in Somatic Cell Count as Quality Index of Locally Produced Milk

Authors: Christian Acaba, Andy Montaňo, SandeCaňete and Ma. Corazon G. Acaba

Agency: University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos

Evaluators 

Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, DENR

Dr. Crisanto S. Lopez, WVSU

Dr. Nancy J. Fajutrao, CHED

SOCIAL SCIENCE CATEGORY

Best Paper

Socio-economic Characteristics of Human Settlements and the Impact of  Anthropogenic Activities in Ilog-Hilabangan River System

Authors: Mae Flor Posadas, Milagros Sabidalas,  Virgilio R. Aguilar

Agency:  Negros State College of Agriculture      

1st Runner-Up

Human Resource Inventory and Environmental Scanning of Agriculture, Fishery and Natural Resources Sector in Western Visayas

Authors: Roel A. Alli and Salvacion R. Villasis

Agency:  West Visayas State University and Aklan State University

2nd Runner-Up

Socio-economic  Profile, Cultural Practices and Farming Systems Among Upland Rice Farmers in the Province of Capiz

Authors: Evelyn L. Gregorio, Geronimo L. Gregorio, Editha L. Magallanes, Rector John A. Latoza

Agency: Capiz State University 

  

Evaluators

Dr. Ma. Lulu L. Loyola, WVSU

Prof. Joseph Edward O. Idemne, UPV

Dr. Diego M. Malones,

POSTER CATEGORY 

1st  Runner-up

Varietal Collection, Identification and Characterization of Indigenous Upland Rice in the Province of Capiz

Agency: Capiz State University

2nd Runner-up

Socio-Economic Profile, Cultural Practices and Farming  Systems Among Upland Rice Farmers  in the Province of Capiz

Agency: Capiz State University 

3rd Runner-up

Growth and Yield Attributes of Aromatic Indigenous Upland Rice Varieties in the Province of Capiz

Agency: Capiz State University 

Evaluators

Dr. Raul L. Ticar, CapSU

Dr. Noeni S. Nepomuceno, WESVARRDEC

Louie Cervantes: The Consortium's New RMISG Coordinator

By Deodith Grace Honrado-Baticbatic
RACG Staff

When WESVARRDEC transferred to West Visayas State University (WVSU) as its new base agency for the next ten years, the Regional Management Information System Group (RMISG) appointed its new Coordinator in the person of Louie F. Cervantes, who was formally appointed by WVSU President Pablo Subong, Jr.

Cervantes obtained his Bachelor in Secondary Educations major in Physics at the West Visayas State University in 1994 (Magna Cum Laude). He finished his Master of Education major in Physics at the University of the Philippines Diliman in 1997. In 2008, he graduated Master of Engineering in Telecommunications and Radio Communications Engineering major in Distributed System at Kunsan National University, South Korea.

At present, Mr. Cervantes is serving WVSU as the Management Information System (MIS) Director. Among his tasks is to supervise the personnel of MIS Office in the development, deployment and administration of key information system projects. He has also led the Technical Working Group for ICT equipment providing the technical review of equipment specifications for all ICT-related acquisitions.

With these credentials in information technology, Cervantes is well equipped to serve the consortium most especially in developing strategies to bring the Science and Technology (S&T) information to its clientele.

First Natural Fiber Technology Resource Center in Region 6 opens at ASU

By Sally R. Villasis

A P1.857-million Natural Fibers Technology Resource Center (NFRTC) at the Aklan State University (ASU) is the first one-stop-information-shop on natural fibers in Region 6.  

The NFRTC is a project of ASU in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology VI (DOST VI) with P0.6-million assistance and a counterpart amounting to P1.2-million from the University. 

The project aims to support farmers, entrepreneurs, and other enthusiasts who are concentrating on the development, production and promotion of products made from different natural fibers. 

The Center features a showroom for natural fibers and fabrics and naturally-dyed products; Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials and on-line information service on natural fibers, natural dye application technologies, market information and global trends.

It also features the conduct of training activities on natural fibers production, processing and natural dye extraction and application; and consultancy services to natural fibers industry key players.

The center will not only conduct studies and researches on piña but also on other fibers like abaca, rattan, nito, bariw and tayok-tayok. 

The NFRTC is spearheaded by the Project Leader and College of Agriculture, Forestry and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) Dean, Dr. Lelisa J. Teodosio. 

According to Dr. Teodosio, everyone is invited, especially the lovers of natural fiber products and would-be entrepreneurs to visit the facility and make use of the available information and services which are being offered by the Center.  The Center is housed at the Research and Development Services Office of the University with phone number (036) 267-6569.

ASU sponsors training on hand embroidery for piña cloth

By Sally R. Villasis

The Aklan State University (ASU), in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology VI (DOST VI), conducted a training on Hand Embroidery for Piña Cloth on September 25-27, 2012 at the ASU Research and Development Services Conference Room, Banga, Aklan.

The training aimed at capacitating the players involved in piña fiber processing specifically on hand embroidery.

Some 17 out-of-school youths, housewives, students and faculty attended the training.

In his speech, the University President, Dr. Danilo E. Abayon emphasized the vital roles of the Piña Industry key players in the province of Aklan in the preservation and promotion of the elegant and unique piña cloth renowned as the “Queen of all Fabrics.”

He likewise, encouraged the participants to maximize the valuable opportunity given to them through the training.

Prof. Arlene B. Dela Cruz, faculty member of the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) discussed the value and importance of embroidery.

Through the training, the participants were equipped with the knowledge and understanding of the value and importance of embroidery. They were primarily taught of the skills on hand embroidery.  

The training is a component of the DOST Regional Office 6 funded project, Natural Fibers Technology Resource Center (NFRTC), spearheaded by the Project Leader and College of Agriculture, Forestry and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) Dean, Dr. Lelisa J. Teodosio. 

In her message, Dr. Teodosio highlighted the significance of hand embroidery for the beautiful piña cloth that is sought after by famous fashion designers and couturiers.  

“Today, only few people have persevered in preserving the craft of hand embroidery due to modernity and lack of interest to learn the art among the younger generation.   There is a need to hand-over the skill among younger people like the out-of-school youths and housewives,” Teodosio added.    

Mrs. Aster U. Oliva, Science Research Specialist II, who represented DOST RO 6 Director and DOST Aklan Provincial Office Director expressed the Agency’s full support for the project as well as to other science and technology undertakings of the University. 

Prof. Alexander I. Ramos, Director of Extension and Community Services stressed that being engaged in piña fiber processing particularly in hand embroidery is a great opportunity to earn more income.