Five new research and development (R&D) projects led by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) were launched recently to support the banana, eggplant, sweetpotato, and onion industries.
DOST-PCAARRD and UPLB representatives during the inception meeting held at IPB, CAFS-UPLB. (Image Credit: CRD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), through the Crops Research Division (CRD), these initiatives aim to enhance crops’ resistance to pests, increase yields, and promote sustainable farming practices.
The launch was held at the Institute of Plant Breeding (IPB), College of Agriculture and Food Science (CAFS), UPLB.
Two projects focus on managing the ‘bugtok’disease, a major threat to the Philippine banana industry, caused by the pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum. This disease makes banana fruits inedible and can result in up to 100% yield losses. To enhance its management strategies, the projects led by Mr. Cris Q. Cortaga and Mr. Jayvee S. Mendoza of IPB, CAFS-UPLB will map the pathogen’s genetic diversity and identify bugtok-resistant banana varieties,
Another project led by Mr. John Albert M. Caraan of IPB, CAFS-UPLB aims to improve eggplant through interdisciplinary strategies and innovative plant breeding techniques. This initiative will generate eggplant haploid and double-haploid lines to reduce the time required in the breeding process and enhance efficiency in developing superior eggplant varieties.
Meanwhile, the project spearheaded by Ms. Melissa P. Montecalvo of the National Crop Protection Center (NCPC), CAFS-UPLB will identify new fungicides and biological control agents to effectively manage onion anthracnose. Anthracnose is a major disease that infects both the onion leaves and bulbs, causing significant yield losses.
The project led by Dr. Karen B. Alviar of the Institute of Weed Science, Entomology, and Plant Pathology (IWEP), CAFS-UPLB will explore the efficacy of RNA Interference (RNAi) as a biopesticide for managing sweetpotato weevil. This initiative aims to develop an RNAi-based solution that targets and suppresses the pest, which can lead to improving crop yields while reducing reliance on harmful chemical pesticides.
The activity was attended by representatives from IPB, led by Director Fe M. Dela Cueva; NCPC; IWEP; UPLB Accounting Office; and DOST-PCAARRD, led by Deputy Executive Director for R&D Juanito T. Batalon, CRD Director Leilani D. Pelegrina, Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) Manager for Banana and Sweetpotato Fredric M. Odejar, ISP Manager for Vegetables Joel Norman R. Panganiban, and other key staff.
In celebration of the 2024 National Coconut Week, the webinar, “Sustainable and Resilient Coconut Farming,” was held by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
The webinar highlighted ongoing efforts to advance coconut farming practices through science and technology, featuring the resource persons from DOST-PCAARRD-funded projects under the Coconut Hybridization Program (CHP) Research.
Dr. Justine Bennette H. Millado from the Visayas State University (VSU) discussed the “Sustainable Management through Assessment, Surveillance, and Monitoring of Asiatic Palm Weevil (APW) in Hybrid Coconut Farms,” noting that APW infestations are often underreported due to confusion with the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB). She also reported the discovery of infestations across 14 provinces in seven regions, including the entirety of Eastern Visayas, parts of Central and Western Visayas, Bicol, and Central Luzon.
APW inflicts severe damage on coconut palms, manifesting as spear leaf death, emergence holes, hollow trunks, and adult weevil presence, resulting in significant yield losses. Dr. Millado emphasized that characterizing their polymorphs and mapping their distribution and key jump-off points are crucial to supporting Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies.
Mr. Brian Angelo S. Sustrina from DOST-PCAARRD's Crops Research Division as he facilitates the discussion with Dr. Justine Bennette H. Millado from the Visayas State University (VSU) and Asst. Professor Dara Maria F. Realin from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) during the webinar. (Image Credit: CRD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Assistant Professor Dara Maria F. Realin from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) presented the topic, “Promoting Adaptive Management of Coconut Farms in the Face of Climate Change.” She discussed the role of capacity-building initiatives in promoting climate-resilient and regenerative practices within the coconut industry.
Assistant Professor Realin emphasized that with the impacts of climate change, diversification is crucial for enhancing resilience, productivity, and sustainability of coconut farms, ultimately leading to better income opportunities for coconut farmers.
During the webinar, DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora stressed the webinar's relevance amid increasing pest incidences and climate change that threaten coconut production and farmers' incomes.
This sentiment was echoed by Crops Research Division (CRD) Director Leilani D. Pelegrina, hoping that the webinar insights would help farmers and stakeholders improve their management practices and support sustainable coconut production.
The CHP Research website was also introduced in the activity. This platform is designed to promote research and advancements in coconut hybridization while facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration among researchers, farmers, and industry stakeholders.
Over 700 coconut farmers, researchers, enthusiasts, and students from state universities and colleges (SUCs) participated in the webinar.
Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) Manager for Coconut Alissa Carol M. Ibarra synthesized the activity proceedings while CHP Staff Brian Angelo S. Sustrina hosted and moderated the event.
Forum co-convenors recognized DOST-PCAARRD, the funding agency of the forum (from left to right): Prof. Melissa Grace C. Olit, PSU Income Generating Projects Director; Dr. Rodmyr F. Datoon, UPLB-ASI-CAFS Director, Dr. Melvin B. Carlos, DOST-PCAARRD Deputy Executive Director for ARMSS; and Dr. Ramon M. Docto, PSU President. (Image credit: PSU Media Hub and Project Team)
The first National Forum on Agricultural Development & Natural Resource Management for Small Islands in the Philippines, held from September 26 to 28, 2024, successfully brought together experts and stakeholders who shared experiences, advanced research, and developed science-based solutions to small islands’ unique challenges.
As an archipelagic nation, the Philippines faces unique challenges in managing its small islands, which are highly vulnerable to natural hazards and climate change. These islands, often home to some of the country's poorest communities, rely heavily on mainland food imports and have limited infrastructure. Despite their agricultural potential, there is a significant lack of research on small island development, highlighting the importance of focused forums and initiatives to address their specific needs.
The three-day event opened opportunities for future collaboration in sustainable agriculture and resource management with a vision to enhance the resilience and economic viability of small island communities across the country. The conduct of the forum was funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) and organized by the Agricultural Systems Institute (ASI) of the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) in partnership with Palawan State University (PSU).
Day 1 of the forum, held at the Palawan State University (PSU) Amphitheater, drew a turnout of 576 onsite participants and 1,800 virtual attendees from State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies (NGAs), and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs). The event opened with welcome messages from distinguished officials – PSU President Ramon M. Docto and DOST-PCAARRD Deputy Executive Director for Administration, Resource Management and Support Services Melvin B. Carlos. Their remarks highlighted the importance of addressing the pressing challenges in small island agriculture, particularly in light of climate change and limited resources.
Dr. Melvin B. Carlos, Deputy Executive Director for ARMSS of DOST-PCAARRD delivered his welcoming message during the first day of the of the 1st National Forum on Agricultural Development & Natural Resource Management for Small Islands in the Philippines at PSU Amphitheater. (Image credit: PSU Media Hub and Project Team)
In her keynote address, PSU Regent and Trustee of Friends of Tubbataha Ms. Marvi R. Trudeau emphasized the need for sustainable development in small islands, noting that agricultural expansion must be balanced with natural resource conservation to secure the future of these vulnerable ecosystems.
Experts from leading academic institutions and government agencies presented various topics critical to small island sustainability. Discussions covered Resource Accounting, the Blue Economy, Livestock Raising, and Sustainable Energy, offering practical strategies for improving resource management and strengthening economic growth in small island communities.
A key outcome of the forum was the formation of collaborative partnerships between participants, who agreed on the importance of continued research and the implementation of practical, science-based solutions tailored to the specific needs of small islands. Presenters and participants identified future initiatives, including improving agricultural practices, managing natural resources more effectively, and integrating renewable energy sources.
On day 2, a workshop was held at Hue Hotels and Resorts, where 70 onsite and eight online participants explored further issues surrounding small islands. Stakeholders and experts worked together to define small islands within the Philippines' unique geographic landscape and advance research on sustainable agriculture and resource management. They also discussed research gaps and proposed science-based solutions to enhance the long-term resilience of small island ecosystems, all of which contributed to the development of an R&D agenda for small islands in the Philippines.
Participants and organizers during the day 2 workshop of the 1st National Forum on Agricultural Development & Natural Resource Management for Small Islands in the Philippines at Hue Hotels and Resorts. (Image credit: PSU Media Hub and Project Team)
Day 3 capped off the event with a cultural tour, which provided participants with an immersive experience of Puerto Princesa’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Highlights included visits to the Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden, Binua’tan Creations Weaving Center, and the Gintong Butil Agri Farm, demonstrating the potential of sustainable agriculture and eco-tourism in promoting conservation and livelihood opportunities for small island communities.
Participants expressed optimism for the future, acknowledging the critical role of collaboration between academic institutions, government agencies, and local communities in promoting sustainable agriculture and resource management. With the foundations laid by this forum, the Philippines is better equipped to tackle the unique challenges faced by its small islands, ensuring their long-term sustainability and resilience.
This forum is part of the project, "Developing a Framework on Co-Production for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources (AANR) Projects," led by Dr. Rodmyr F. Datoon of ASI-UPLB. The project aims to provide a platform for sharing knowledge and advancing research on science-based solutions for sustainable agriculture and natural resource management in small islands.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Balik Scientist Program honored two outstanding Filipino scientists, Dr. Deo Florence L. Onda and Dr. Venecio U. Ultra, Jr., for their exceptional contributions to environmental research and sustainable development in the field of agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR). Both scientists were recognized during the 10th Balik Scientist Convention held on October 28, 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center, where they were honored for their impactful work in advancing ecological conservation and environmental science.
Dr. Venecio U. Ultra, Jr. was recognized in the Short-term category for his groundbreaking work in agro-environmental chemistry, with a focus on nutrient management, soil quality assessment, pollution mitigation, and ecosystem rehabilitation in Samar Island. His engagement, hosted by Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) from December 6, 2018 to April 12, 2019, brought essential scientific insights and innovative solutions addressing the challenges of land degradation caused by mining and industrial activities. Dr. Ultra’s contributions have been instrumental in promoting sustainable land use practices and strengthening the local environment for communities reliant on AANR. Additionally, his mentorship empowered NwSSU to strengthen the skills of its young researchers and enhance their R&D facilities in the process.
Dr. Deo Florence L. Onda was honored in the long-term category for his pioneering research in microbial oceanography. Hosted by the University of the Philippines-Diliman Marine Science Institute (UPD-MSI) from January 2, 2019 to January 1, 2021, Dr. Onda’s work focused on the microbial ecology of open oceans and coastal environments. By employing innovative methodologies, Dr. Onda’s research has significantly advanced the understanding of marine microbial communities, shedding light on their crucial roles in ecosystem functions. His findings, including those in the West Philippine Sea, provide vital insights for marine conservation efforts and contribute to sustainable management practices in Philippine waters. Along the way, he also mentored young researchers and students, essential for ensuring that R&D in the country’s marine resources continues to advance.
The recognition of Dr. Onda and Dr. Ultra marks a milestone for the Balik Scientist Program, underscoring the essential role of scientific expertise in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development. These two awardees exemplify the program's success in fostering a culture of scientific innovation that benefits the Philippines' natural resources, local communities, and environmental resilience.
Established by the DOST, the Balik Scientist Program encourages Filipino scientists based abroad to return and contribute to national development by sharing their expertise in science, technology, and innovation. Through initiatives like the Balik Scientist Program, DOST aims to enhance the country’s scientific capabilities and address pressing issues in various fields, including agriculture, marine science, and environmental conservation.
DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora (center front) and TTPD Dir. Noel A. Catibog (front right) with the Program and Project Leaders of the first batch of the RAISE Program. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) officially launched the second implementation phase of the first batch of its Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (RAISE) Program implementers during an inception meeting on November 21, 2024.
Held at DOST-PCAARRD Innovation and Technology Center (DPITC) in Los Baños, Laguna, the event marked a significant step in boosting the Council’s technology transfer operations.
DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora welcomed the guests and participants and emphasized the program’s goal of fostering a more competitive and innovative agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) ecosystem. He highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration to ensure a long-lasting impact.
Engr. Mark Anthony R. Ferrer, Senior Science Research Specialist of DOST Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI) discussed TAPI’s Technology Innovation for Commercialization (TECHNICOM) program, which aims to support various pre-commercialization activities.
Program and project leaders from the eight participating regions (Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Region I, Region IV-A, Region IV-B, Region V, Region VI, Region VIII, and Region XI) of RAISE Batch 1 attended the inception meeting.
The RAISE Program stands as a testament to DOST-PCAARRD’s commitment to fostering a vibrant agri-aqua innovation ecosystem. This comprehensive initiative includes four key components—Regional Intellectual Property and Technology Business Management (IPTBM), Regional Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator (ATBI), Regional Knowledge Management (KM) Hub, and Regional Agri-Business Hub (ABH). It seeks to replicate the operation of the DPITC with the goal of accelerating the commercialization and growth of science and technology-based agri-aqua enterprises within the AANR sector.
DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora addresses the participants of the RAISE Program Batch 1 Phase 2 Inception Meeting with his welcome message. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Building on the success of Phase 1 and the second batch of regional implementers, which laid the groundwork for technology transfer operations across the regions, the RAISE Program Phase 2 will further strengthen these efforts.
Today, the program covers 94 IPTBM Offices and 25 ATBIs spread across 15 regions. Aside from these, it also involves 14 regional ABHs and 14 regional knowledge management (KM) units supporting pre-commercialization and promotion of intellectual properties.
Through effective implementation of intellectual property (IP) policies and technology transfer protocols, the program has facilitated the filing of 1,856 Intellectual Properties and the execution or signing of a total of 34 licensing agreements from 2023-2024. The robust partnerships and connections with relevant business groups and potential technology adopters built by IPTBMs, ABH, ATBIs, and KM groups are pivotal in the execution of these transactions.
DOST-PCAARRD is optimistic that Phase 2 will not only sustain but even surpass the accomplishments of Phase 1. With the launch of this next phase, the Council hopes to empower its partner institutions to optimize their existing efforts, expand their reach, and strengthen their regional innovation networks. Through sound and active policies and processes, efficient technology services, and quality IP assets, DOST-PCAARRD envisions at improving technology transfer processes and fostering stronger industry-academia collaborations. Phase 2 also seeks to develop a workforce with enhanced skills, establish shared infrastructure, and build well-linked networks among system members, ultimately encouraging more joint ventures across the agri-aqua sector.
Through strong partnerships and collaboration, DOST-PCAARRD, together with its partner institutions, is working to build a more competitive and innovative AANR ecosystem. Aligned with the “#OneDOST4U” initiative, the program aims to RAISE the bar for the future of agri-aqua innovation.
