Philippine Standard Time

PCAARRD joins EXSCITE

The ribbon cutting ceremony and opening of exhibit was led by DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo (second from left), UP President Alfredo E. Pascual (second from right), and UPLB Chancellor Rex Victor O. Cruz (extreme right). Joining them was UPLB alumna and 2013 Miss Universe 2013 third runner-up Ariella Arida, (Photo by Victor V. Oro, S&T Media Service)PASAY City ― PCAARRD showcased its organic farming technology at the University of the Philippines Los Baños’ (UPLB) S&T Forum and Exhibit held recently at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia.

Dubbed as EXSCITE, the event espoused the theme “Making science work for sustainable development.”

The EX in the event’s title refers to the prefix for three imperatives: explore the innovations of UPLB researchers; exchange ideas with the experts; and experience S&T at UPLB.  

Featuring research outputs on food security and safety, forest protection and biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation and measures, the exhibit aimed to raise public awareness and understanding of UPLB’s S&T undertakings and its role and contributions to sustainable development.

Among those who graced the occasion were Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Mario G. Montejo, PCAARRD Executive Director Patricio S. Faylon UPLB Chancellor Rex Victor O. Cruz, UP President Alfredo E. Pascual, and Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar.

In his keynote speech, Secretary Montejo stressed the importance of continuous use of S&T opportunities and advantages towards attaining sustainable development, especially in the midst of climate change. He also hoped for the country’s scientists and researchers to generate outputs that will benefit the Filipinos.  

 Director Eleazar, on the other hand, said that with the advent of recent calamities, it is a must to intensify our efforts in research, development, and extension.

Lectures and a convocation program for the 2014 outstanding UPLB personnel also marked the holding of the event.