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Volume 10 Issue No. 10 A monthly publication of the Bureau of
Agricultural Research OCTOBER 2009
BINHI AWARDEE (2007)Agricultural Newsletter of the Year
hronicleCVisit our official website at http://www.bar.gov.phISSN
1655-3942
RDMIC Bldg., Visayas Ave.,cor. Elliptical Rd.Diliman, Quezon
City 1104PHILIPPINES
Entered as second class mail at the Quezon City Central Post
Office under permit no. 753-01 NCR
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BAR hronicleCBUREAU OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH
ISO 9001:2000
BAR leads in settingR&D program to fightCLIMATE CHANGE
BAR leads in settingR&D program to fightCLIMATE CHANGE
The Philippines is one of the top 12countries at highest risk to
climatechange according to The World Bank.
Among the five main threats arising fromclimate change —
droughts, floods, storms,rising sea levels, and greater uncertainty
inagriculture—the Philippines leads the list ofnations in most
danger of facing frequentand more intense storms. Thus, given
thisalarming scenario, the Department ofAgriculture (DA) has been
working doubletime with other partner-agencies in seekingways to
abate the anticipated negative impactof climate change.
In response to AgricultureSecretary Arthur C. Yap's urgent call
on“weather-proofing” the farm and fisheries
sector to enable the country to adapt to thenegative impacts of
climate change, theBureau of Agricultural Research (BAR),
incollaboration with experts from theUniversity of the Philippines
Los Baños(UPLB), UP Diliman, Department ofScience and
Technology-PhilippineAtmospheric Geophysical andAstronomical
Services Administration(DOST-PAGASA), Southeast AsianRegional
Center for Graduate Study andResearch in Agriculture (SEARCA),
andDA-Bureau of Soils and WaterManagement (DA-BSWM), led in
thecrafting of the Research and Development(R&D) Program on
Climate Change.
The program was presented by Dr.
Ma. Victoria D. Espaldon, dean of theSchool of Environmental
Science andManagement (SESAM), UPLB during theBAR activity,
“Stakeholders' ConsultationWorkshop for Crafting the RDE Agenda
andPrograms for 2011-2015” which was held on22 October 2009 in
Tagaytay City.
“Given the complexity andmagnitude of climate change, there is a
needfor a focused research effort to fullyunderstand the drivers of
climate change andprovide options to reduce its impacts,” saidBAR
Director Nicomedes Eleazar. Hestressed that with an effective
R&D programon climate change that is supported witheconomic
analysis, the agriculture sector will
Senator Legarda graces PEN confab;talks on climate change in
agriculture
Senator Loren Legarda's speech during the recent 3Philippine
Extension Network, Inc. (PEN) NationalConvention held on 13 October
2009 at the Heritage Hotel,
Roxas Boulevard, Manila was well accepted and commended byPEN
members. Highlighted in the speech were the significantroles of
professional extensionists in national agriculture,
fisheries,forestry and natural resources in the protection and
propermanagement of our bio-physical resources in relation to the
effectsof climate change and in the use of extension strategies to
supportdevelopment operations.
In her speech, Legarda pointed out that “the countryneeds you
(extensionists) as the vital link that will empower ourfood
producers—the farmers and fisherfolk—not just to pick upthe pieces
but to transform our food system into one that providesa resilient
food security blanket for our people. This is a tall order
rd
Agriculture Secretary Arthur C. Yapserved as the speaker during
theCentennial Symposium organized
by the College of Agriculture (CA) of theUniversity of the
Philippines Los Baños(UPLB) on 9 October 2009 at the
SEARCAAuditorium, College, Laguna.
UPLB celebrated its 91 LoyaltyDay along with its Centennial
Celebrationon October 4-10, 2009 with the theme
.As part of UPLB's centennial
celebration, the symposium titled “TheFuture of Philippine
Agriculture” wasconducted to raise issues that are relevant tothe
agriculture sector, which could be thepriority areas of the college
in its researchand development endeavors in the nextcentury of the
university.
With his two-slide presentation,Yap expounded on what he ought
to be thetwo critical challenges that the agriculturesector must
struggle in the next years:climate change and trade
liberalization.
As a Center of Excellence forAgriculture, Yap recognized that
UPLB willplay an important role in facing thechallenges of climate
change through theconduct of research and development(R&D)
activities that will result intoclimate change geared technologies.
Healso stressed that for new technologies toreach the farmers,
fisherfolk and other end-users, the university needs to
furtherstrengthen agricultural extension.
Sec. Yap also stressed howGeographic Information System
(GIS)could be a powerful tool in helping farmersand fisherfolk in
their production activitieseven under adverse effects of
climatechange.
st
"Mga Iskolar Para sa Bayan: Isang DaangTaon ng Natatanging
Kahusayan saPaglilingkod sa Bayan"
Yap graces UPLB Centennial Symposium;discusses challenges to
agriculture
He presented two lines ofdefense on the issue of
tradeliberalization. First, he stressed theimportance of an
efficient regulatoryservice complemented by modernfacilities and
equipment that will improvethe quality of our farm's produce.
Another line of defense pointedout by the Secretary is
increasing ofproductivity by lowering its cost. In thisline, Yap
again emphasized theimportance of UPLB in developingtechnologies
and interventions to achievesuch. The importance of
productpackaging and value-adding were alsostressed as among the
weak points of ourindustry which can be given appropriateattention
in order for our products tocompete in the global market.
With reference to the DA'smandate of increasing farm outputs
toincrease farmer's income and reducepoverty incidence, he
mentioned thatagriculture must be treated and consideredas a
profit-based activity. Thus, heencouraged continuous
interactionbetween government and the privatesector.
After the symposium, Yap wasconferred honorary membership to
theUPLB-Alumni Association inrecognition of his support to
theinstitutional development of the Collegeof Agriculture of UPLB,
particularly instrengthening its research, developmentand extension
capacity. Through theBureau of Agricultural Research (BAR),the DA
is one of the institution's majorsources of fund for its R&D
initiatives.
Aside from the CentennialSymposium, a UPLB CentennialSymposium
on “UPLB as a NationalUniversity” was also conducted.
Otheractivities such as exhibits of food,publication technologies,
products andservices of UPLB, Pasyal LB (Ecotoursand Town Tours), a
Garden Show, theUPLB Alumni Awards and FellowshipNight, Centennial
Breakfast Receptionfor the Jubilarians, Sentenaryong Salo-Salo
(UPLB Fiesta), Loyalty DaySagala, and UPLB Loyalty Day Concertwere
also organized for the weeklongcelebration of the Loyalty Day.
(EllaineGrace L. Nagpala)
PHOTO: ENAGPALA
Sec. Yap is conferredhonorary membership tothe
UPLB-AlumniAssociation in recognitionof his support to
theinstitutional development ofthe CA-UPLB, particularlyin
strengthening itsresearch, development andextension
capacity.Through BAR, DA is amajor source of fund tosupport CA’s
R&Dinitiatives.
Sec. Yap is conferredhonorary membership tothe
UPLB-AlumniAssociation in recognitionof his support to
theinstitutional development ofthe CA-UPLB, particularlyin
strengthening itsresearch, development andextension
capacity.Through BAR, DA is amajor source of fund tosupport CA’s
R&Dinitiatives.
PHOTO: RDELACRUZ
BAR leads in setting R&D program................. 1
Senator Legarda graces PEN confab.............. 1
BAR pushes for commercialization................. 2
BAR promotes SNAP hydroponics..................3
BAR joins 2009 Agrilink at WTC...................... 3
Regional TechCom Center to boost................ 4
Typhoons Ondoy, Pepeng prompt R&D.......... 4
BAR joins APAARI experts’ consultation........ 5
Eat a rainbow of colors.....................................
5
BAR announces 2009 AFMA Best R&D........... 6
Winners of DA 3rd OMG Cooking Contest...... 7
UP-MSI Professor is 2009 Gawad Saka........... 8
BAR, stakeholders set medium term............... 9
UPLB technologies highlighted anew.............10
BAR evaluates 26 Visayas CPAR.................... 11
Yap graces UPLB Centennial Symposium..... 12 Sen. Loren
Legarda
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NEWS NEWS
2 BAR hronicleC October 2009 Issue 11BAR hronicleC
BAR hronicleCBUREAU OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH
ISO 9001:2000
Managing Editor/Layout:Consulting Editors:Writers:
Contributors:Reproduction/Printing:Circulation:ACD
Head:Adviser:
Rita T. dela CruzManuel F. Bonifacio, PhD and Victoriano B.
GuiamEdmon B. Agron, Marlowe U. Aquino, PhDJohanna B. Benavente,
Rita T. dela Cruz and Don P. LejanoJude Ray P. Laguna and Ellaine
Grace L. NagpalaRicardo G. Bernardo and Anthony A.
ConstantinoMaricel F. Fortaleza and Victoria G. RamosJulia A.
LapitanNicomedes P. Eleazar, PhD, CESO IV
ISSN 1655-3942Copyright Bureau of Agricultural Research,
Department of Agriculture 2009.
For subscription and inquiries please contact us: Tel.Nos +63 2
928-8505, 928-8624, 920-0234 locals 3012,3026,3027 with email at:
Articles are also available online, [email protected].
http://www.bar.gov.ph
BAR CHRONICLE is published monthly by theApplied Communication
Division of the Department
of Agriculture - Bureau of Agricultural Research,
RDMIC Building, Visayas Avenue, cor. Elliptical
Road, Diliman, Quezon City 1104 Philippines.
This publication provides regular updates on DA-
BAR’s activities as the country’s national coordinator
for agriculture and fisheries R&D. It also highlights
features and news articles concerning NaRDSAF-
member institutions.
PRODUCTION TEAM
Now on full scale projectimplementation, the Bureau
ofAgricultural Research (BAR), the
research arm of the Department ofAgriculture (DA), is pushing
for thecommercialization of sweet sorghum givenits good potential
as a source of bioethanolall over the country.
“A promising feedstock for bio-ethanol production, sweet sorghum
answersboth food and fuel security in the country.Its stem contains
high amounts of sugarwhich can be extracted by simple millingand
fermented into bioethanol and its grainscan be milled for food
products,” said BARDirector Nicomedes P. Eleazar during theconduct
of the “First National Review ofBAR-Funded Projects on Sweet
Sorghum”held on 6-7 October 2009 at the FernandoLopez Hall, Bureau
of Soils and WaterManagement in Visayas Avenue, Diliman,Quezon
City.
“Not to push out other importantcrops such as corn and
sugarcane, whichare also good sources of bio-ethanol, butwe must
look at sweet sorghum not as acompetitor but as an opportunity
given itspotential, production- and yield-wise,”stressed Dr.
William D. Dar, directorgeneral of the India-based
InternationalCrops Research Institute for the Semi-AridTropics
(ICRISAT) who was alsoresponsible for introducing sweet sorghumcrop
into the country. Dr. Dar furtherexplained that an evolutionary
approach isappropriate in this trying times saying that“while we
continue the science ofdeveloping sweet sorghum for biofuel as
along term plan, we must also look intointermediary approaches such
as
BAR pushes for commercializationof sweet sorghum nationwide
developing value-added food productsfrom sweet sorghum.”
Since its launch in the country in2005, BAR has supported
R&D activitiesin the initial production of sweet sorghum.
Given the DA's prior success inIlocos Norte, the Bicol
IntegratedAgricultural Research Center (BIARC) ofDA-RFU 5 has
developed its own region-wide commercialization of sweet
sorghumwith funding and coordinative supportfrom BAR. This included
the developmentof village-level technologies on foodproducts and
production of organicfertilizer.
Other regions followed suit. Fromthe pilot areas in Ilocandia,
the programwas subsequently implemented in CagayanValley,
Cordilleras, and Central Luzon,aside from Bicol, and in some
provinces inthe Visayas and Mindanao and, recently, inMindoro
Island, Cotabato and BantayanIsland.
According to Dr. Heraldo L.Layaoen of the Mariano Marcos
StateUniversity (MMSU) in Batac, Ilocos Norteand national program
coordinator for thesweet sorghum project, the area planted forsweet
sorghum in the country presentlytotals to 310 hectares all of which
are stillin piloting mode. MMSU piloted the fieldtrials of sweet
sorghum and currently has astock of 288 varieties of sorghum,
ofwhich 19 varieties are said to be promisingfor ethanol
production.
Dr. Dar has encouraged BAR todouble if not triple the allocation
for sweetsorghum. “It is important that BAR sustainits efforts on
this crop and, as a long termplan establish an integrated
Research
Development and Extension (RDE)program on sweet sorghum,” said
Dar.
In response, BAR hasearmarked a budget of P10-million forthe
implementation of sweet sorghumprojects. Currently, the bureau
iscoordinating and funding 16 projectsall over the country 13 of
which are onvarietal adaptability trials of sweetsorghum
implemented by the RegionalIntegrated Agricultural ResearchCenters
(RIARCs) of DA. (Rita T.delaCruz)
Dr. William D. Dar (left) of ICRISAT and Dr.Nicomedes P. Eleazar
(right) of BAR holdproducts from sweet sorghum.
Dr. William D. Dar (left) of ICRISAT and Dr.Nicomedes P. Eleazar
(right) of BAR holdproducts from sweet sorghum.
Two months after the MindanaoCPAR Project Review, the Bureauof
Agricultural Research (BAR)
conducted another project review, this timefor the Visayas CPAR
projects. The activitywas held on 27-29 October 2009 at theEastern
Visayas Integrated AgriculturalResearch Center (EVIARC),
Babatngon,Leyte.
The zonal review was conductedto evaluate the implementation of
CPARprojects with specific emphasis on thestrategies, process of
implementation, andbeneficial impact to the community. Thisactivity
serves as a monitoring mechanismfor BAR particularly in identifying
lessonslearned, strengths and weaknesses andareas for improvement.
Part of the activitywas to give recognition to CPAR
PHOTO: RBERNARDO
BAR evaluates 26 Visayas CPAR projects;
3 CPAR ACHIEVERS awarded
achievers/performers.The review was divided into two
phases, a visit to selected CPAR projectsites for field
validation, and the actualpresentation of projects for review
andevaluation.
Leading in the review was apanel of evaluators composed of:
Dr.Roberto Rañola and Dr. Enrico Supangcoboth from the University
of thePhilippines Los Baños (UPLB), Dr.Teotimo Aganon of the
Central LuzonState University (CLSU), Dr. ZosimoBattad of the
Pampanga AgriculturalCollege (PAC), Dr. Liza Battad of
thePhilippine Carabao Center (PCC), andDr. Catalino de la Cruz of
BAR.
From the 26 CPAR projects thatwere presented and subjected to
review,
eight are already completed or 18 are on-going and
newly-approved. After thepresentations, Dr. Rañola, chair of
theevaluating team, discussed their findingsand comments on the
CPAR projects.Specific to each completed project, theircomments
were classified according to theproject identification,
evaluation,implementation, and recommendations asCPAR
endeavors.
Meanwhile, from the eightcompleted CPAR projects, the
evaluatorschose the best three CPARachievers/performers. Criteria
used forjudging included: scientific significance(analytic
perspective, creativity, originalityand quality of work); impact
(profitability,productivity and environmental impact),and
presentation (mastery, delivery andeffectiveness of presentation
tools used).
Winning the first prize was“CPAR on Hybrid Rice Production
Systemin Barangay Talustusan, Naval, Biliran”presented by Dr.
Marciano Sacay ofEVIARC/DA-RFU 8 while the secondprize went to
“CPAR on Gabi ChipsProcessing in Liloan, Southern Leyte”presented
by Dr. Julieta Roa of the VisayasState University (VSU). The third
prizewas awarded to “CPAR on Rainfed Rice-based Farming Systems in
Llorente,Eastern Samar” which was also presentedby Dr. Sacay. The
best CPAR achieverreceived PhP 9,000 while the second andthird
placers wonPhP 6,000 and PhP 3,000, respectively.(Rita T. dela
Cruz)
Dr. Marciano Sacay (2nd from left) of DA-EVIARCreceives the
grand prize for the Best CPAR Achiever.Dr. Marciano Sacay (2nd from
left) of DA-EVIARCreceives the grand prize for the Best CPAR
Achiever.
PHOTO: RDELACRUZ
Dr. Roberto Rañola, chair of the CPAREvaluation Team, gives the
group’s commentsand recommendations after the presentations.
Dr. Roberto Rañola, chair of the CPAREvaluation Team, gives the
group’s commentsand recommendations after the presentations.
PHOTO: RDELACRUZ
Ms. Apolonia Mendoza, BAR project coordinator for Reg. 8,
explains to the Evaluation Team themechanics of the review and the
search for Best CPAR Completed Project. The evaluators consistof
Drs. Roberto Rañola and Enrico Supangco of UPLB, Dr. Teotimo Aganon
of CLSU, Dr. ZosimoBattad of PAC, Dr. Lizza Battad of PCC and Dr.
Catalino dela Cruz of BAR.
Ms. Apolonia Mendoza, BAR project coordinator for Reg. 8,
explains to the Evaluation Team themechanics of the review and the
search for Best CPAR Completed Project. The evaluators consistof
Drs. Roberto Rañola and Enrico Supangco of UPLB, Dr. Teotimo Aganon
of CLSU, Dr. ZosimoBattad of PAC, Dr. Lizza Battad of PCC and Dr.
Catalino dela Cruz of BAR. PHOTO: RDELACRUZ
October 2009 Issue
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NEWSNEWS
10 3BAR hronicleC BAR hronicleC
Given its commitment to helpFilipino farmers and the urbanpoor
families in improving their
incomes, the Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR) is promoting
thetechnology on Simple Nutrient AdditionProgram (SNAP) hydroponics
in MetroManila and various provinces in thecountry for wider
adoption and utilization.This technology which is being promotedas
a vegetablefarming system, has been featured inagriculture shows
like, NBN's
and was highlighted in variousexhibits, forums, and
symposia.
SNAP hydroponics is analternative system of growing
plantswithout soil. It uses an inert media and anutrient solution
containing essentialelements needed by the plant to grow.
Thetechnology was developed by Dr.Primitivo Jose A. Santos and Dr.
EurekaTeresa M. Ocampo of University of thePhilippines Los Baños
(UPLB) under aproject funded by BAR that is primarilydesigned for
urban farming and backyardvegetable farming systems.
This technology is doable inapartments or townhouses where a
smallspace is available for growing crops forhome consumption. A
small space is easyto protect against rain and strong
sunlight.Crops like lettuce, sweet pepper,cucumber, and celery are
among thevegetables suitable for this farmingsystem.
In an interview, Dr. Santos saidthat SNAP hydroponics is more
practicalthan the conventional farming system.Supplies are cheap
and can be sourced outfrom recyclable materials. In fact, a
singleunit of snap hydroponics will cost onlyPhP 38.00 at most,
making it affordableand easy to set-up.
In Pasay City, Engineer RolandoLondonio, head of the City's
CooperativeDevelopment Office (CDO), tried SNAPhydroponics at home
and saw that it is agood livelihood project. He incorporatedthe
SNAP Hydroponics livelihoodprogram in their two existing programs:
1)the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program– a national poverty
reduction and socialdevelopment program of the nationalgovernment
that assists extremely poorhouseholds improve their health,
nutrition,and education; and, 2) Pasay HOPESprogram which is
designed to empowerthe youth, particularly the Out of School
low-cost and pesticide-free
Mag-AgriTayo
hydroponics for wider adoption
BAR promotes SNAP
Youth (OSY), to become skilled andproductive members of the
community.These programs are conducted incollaboration with the
National governmentthru DSWD and the United Nations'Children's Fund
(UNICEF).
In support to the programs, Engr.Londonio conducts training
sessions inthree Barangays in Pasay City on SNAPHydroponics Systems
with the help of Dr.Santos of UPLB to capacitate the
projectbeneficiaries on the basic knowledge aboutthe technology. To
date, the CDO has put-up a nursery to supply the seedlingmaterials
needed by the outreachcommunity particularly in Barangay
201,Barangay 14 and Barangay 193 of PasayCity.
Like Engineer Londonio, Mr.Arthur Dimalanta, church leader
andbusinessman who learned about thetechnology from a friend, is
putting up alivelihood program to help the lessprivileged urban
dwellers in Quezon City.SNAP hydroponics will be a part of
theeffort in their subdivision where avegetable business will be
established toserve their community.
On the other hand, in the seminarconducted by BAR during the
celebrationof the prestigious Agrilink, Foodlink,Aqualink Expo 2009
at the World TradeCenter, interested audience showedwillingness to
try the technology in theirown backyards. Most of the
participantswere from urban villages composed ofchurch leaders,
government employees,factory workers, businessman, farmers andother
vegetable enthusiasts mostly fromhighly populated areas in Metro
Manila.
“We're happy that our urbancommunities are now adopting
thistechnology. This will eventually improvehousehold income and
increase our percapita vegetable consumption and,therefore, will
lessen malnutrition,” saidDr. Santos.
The increasing number oftechnology user is apparent based on
theincreasing number of orders and sales ofthe SNAP solution said
Dr. Santos. He alsonoted that the number of inquiries throughemail
and by phone also increased. (EdmonB. Agron)------------For more
information about SNAPHydroponics email Dr. Primitivo Jose A.Santos
at [email protected] or callhim at 09186536899.
The Bureau of AgriculturalResearch once againparticipated in the
Agrilink/
Aqualink/ Foodlink with the 2009event held at the World Trade
Centerin Pasay City on 8-10 October 2009with the theme,
“Sustainable foodproduction: focus on the Filipinomarket”.. This
year's event showcasedproducts, services, technologies
andinnovations Agriculture, fisheries,food and food processing. It
was wellattended by various companies in thesaid fields as well as
government andnon-government institutions.
BAR participated byexhibiting various products madefrom the such
as tea,powder and capsule. Visitors of thetrade show were given
samples of the
products. Samples ofvegetable salad, made ofcorn and tea were
alsogiven out for the visitors to taste.Wines from , mango,and
oregano were the highlight of theexhibit. Long lines formed when
itwas time for the wines to be tasted.
Aside from edible products,an exhibit on SNAP (Simple
NutrientAddition Program) hydroponics drewinterest from many
visitors. Thistechnology of growing plants withoutsoil was
developed by Dr. PrimitivoJose Santos and Dr. Eureka TeresaOcampo
of the Institute of PlantBreeding at the University of
thePhilippines Los Baños (UPLB).
BAR also sponsored aseminar on indigenous plants forhealth and
wellness. Dr. EvelynRodriguez of the Institute ofChemistry, UPLB
enlightened theparticipants on the health benefits thatcan be
derived from fruits andvegetables with emphasis on theindigenous
plants which are readilyavailable. She encouraged everyone
toinclude fruits and vegetables in theirdiet to achieve maximum
wellness.
Other agencies under theDepartment of Agriculture, such asBureau
of Soils and WaterManagement, Agriculture CreditPolicy Council and
the Bureau ofPostharvest Research and Extensionalso participated in
the three-dayevent.
malunggay
malunggaychamporado
malunggay
bignay yacon
(Johanna B. Benavente)
BAR joins 2009Agrilink at WTC
Various crop protectiontechnologies and biotechnologyprojects
being undertaken at the
University of the Philippines Los Baños(UPLB) were documented on
a three-dayshoot conducted by the crew of NBNChannel 4's . Joining
themare staff members from the AppliedCommunications Division (ACD)
of theBureau of Agricultural Research (BAR).
Among those featured under theCollege of Agriculture's (CA)
CropProtection Cluster (CPC) were thepreparation of cardsagainst
field pests, the preparation ofearwigs for biological control
againstAsian corn borer and the preparation of
virus(NPV) against cutworms.
Under the CA's Crop ScienceCluster (CSC), the subjects that
werereported on were the virus resistant abaca,the fruit and shoot
borer resistanteggplant, the papaya ring spot virusresistant papaya
with delayed ripeningtrait, the virus resistant sweet potato andthe
virus resistant banana.
Meanwhile, the differentproducts developed by the UPLB
Instituteof Molecular Biology and Biotechnology(BIOTECH) that were
promoted werePelmictrol, MykoVAM, MykoGroe,BioGroe, BioFix and
BioQuick.
Pelmictrol is a microbiallarvicide containing the bacterium,
,which is used tocontrol mosquito larvae. MykoVam is asoil-based
biofertilizer useful forreforestation species, fruit trees
andagricultural crops. Mykogroe is amycorrhizal tablet containing
spores ofectomycorrhizal fungi inoculated intoeach seedling of
eucalyptus, pines, ,acacia and dipterocarps during pricking
ortransplanting in the nursery.
BioGroe is a solid-basedmicrobial plant growth
promotercontaining plant growth promotingbacteria (PGPB). BioFix is
an enrichmentinoculant enhancing the nutritive valueand effectivity
of the bio-organic fertilizer(BOF). Lastly, BioQuick is a
compostinginocula containing the fungus
CPC-CA Director AvelinoRaymundo, CSC-CA Deputy Director
Mag-Agri Tayo
Trichogramma
Spodoptera nucleopolyhedrosis
lakatan
Bacillus thuringiensis
agoho
Trichoderma sp.
UPLB technologies highlighted anewin NBN-4’s Mag-Agri Tayo
program
Artemio Salazar and BIOTECH DirectorIda Dalmacio granted the
team of Mag-Agri Tayo an interview wherein theygave an overview of
their respectiveprojects. Aside from this, the proponentsof each
projects were also asked to givea detailed account about their
respectiveproducts and technologies.
According to Ms. Julia A.Lapitan, head of BAR-ACD, “Thisseries
of documenting the newestproducts and technologies developedthrough
research is still part of theBureau's commitment in making
thepeople know of the latest breakthroughsin the field of
agriculture. We do notwant these products and technologiesshelved
and so we are bringing them to
the farmers for them to utilize throughmass media.”
“We understand that TV isephemeral, so once the episode
hasalready been aired, people would not beable to watch it again.
And so we aremaking the past episodes of
available for viewing at the R&DTech Comm Center located at
the BARlobby. Everybody is welcome to view thevery interesting
episodes not only fromUPLB but also from other stateuniversities
and colleges and our regionalpartners,” added Ms. Lapitan.
Mag-Agri Tayo is hosted by Mr.Phillip “Ka Ipe” Daffon and airs
everySaturdays at 9-10 AM over at NBNChannel 4.
Mag-AgriTayo
(Don P. Lejano)
(From top left, clockwise) CPC-CA Director Avelino Raymundo,
BIOTECH Director Ida Dalmacio,CSC-CA Deputy Director Artemio
Salazar during their on-cam interview. Also in the photo arestaff
members of NBN’s Mag-Agri Tayo program (Patrick Daffon), UPLB-OVCRE
(Florante Cruz),and BAR-ACD (Rita dela Cruz).
(From top left, clockwise)
PHOTOS: NDELROSARIO III and DLEJANO
October 2009 Issue October 2009 Issue
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NEWS NEWS
4 9BAR hronicleC BAR hronicleC
Finally, a venue for the best of the bestproducts from the Bicol
Regiondeveloped through research is now
serving the public at the Department ofAgriculture Regional
Field Unit 5 (DA-RFU 5) Compound in Pili, Camarines Sur.
The Regional TechnologyCommercialization Center (RTCC) has
beengaining an increasing number of visitorsincluding students,
researchers and eventourists who would like to buy“pasalubong” and
other souvenir productssince its inauguration on 18
September2009.
Bureau of Agricultural Research(BAR) Director Nicomedes P.
Eleazar andRegional Executive Director for DA-RFU 5Jose V. Dayao
were guests of honor duringthe center's inauguration.
“I am very glad that we now havethis Regional
TechnologyCommercialization Center wherein the widearray of
products in Bicol can be put ondisplay. I am sure that this will
help ourfarmer cooperators and researchers incommercializing their
products because thisestablishment would mean exposure forthem,”
said Dir. Eleazar.
Presently, the product display inthe RTCC showcases of pili nuts
and otherpili by-products, sweet sorghum andmalunggay cakes and
pastries, bottled Bicolexpress and Bicol patis, pickled
vegetables,moringa and seaweed noodles, barongTagalog, hand-woven
and other handicraftsto name a few.
Books, brochures and otherreading materials about
differenttechnologies are also on display and are
Regional Tech Com Centerto boost Bicol R&D products
BAR, stakeholders set medium term agriand fishery RDE agenda and
programs
The Bureau of Agricultural Research(BAR), in consultation with
variousstakeholders of the agriculture and
fisheries sectors, held a consultativeworkshop to craft the
Research andDevelopment, Extension Agenda andProgram (RDEAP) for
the next five years(2011-2015) on 22-23 October 2009 inTagaytay
City.
BAR, being the nationalcoordinator for R&D in agriculture
andfisheries took the lead in setting theplatform for an integrated
R&D agenda andprograms which will serve as a unifiedscheme for
prioritizing research.
“The Bureau hopes that, throughthis activity, we will be able to
discuss andidentify major problems and concernsbesetting the
agriculture and fisheries sectorgiven the current global
trends,
developments, and emerging challenges,”said BAR Director
Nicomedes P. Eleazar.
Among the recent challenges andtrends that the activity
addressed are theissues of climate change and enhancing offood
security by tapping Philippineindigenous plants for health and
wellness.
The output of this activity was aconsolidated document
containing theRDEAP in agriculture and fisheries of theDepartment
of Agriculture for the nextmedium term.
“This piece of document will bean important manifesto for BAR as
thiswill serve as our reference in prioritizingour R&D
programs. And since the RDEAPis a product of a concerted effort
betweenand among concerned stakeholders, we areensured of
client-oriented agenda andR&D activities that are harmonious
with
the priorities not only of the currentadministration but of the
whole agriculturesector,” said Eleazar.
He added that with the RDEAP,the R&D community is assured
that theresearches that are being funded andsupported are highly
relevant andcontributory to the growth of the Philippineeconomy.
“Let's do research that reallymatters to the sector. And let
research do itsrole which is to effectively guide policy-making and
program development, “Eleazarenthused.The workshop was attended by
more than100 participants from the Department ofAgriculture's (DA)
national R&D units,state universities and colleges (SUCs),
DAregional research institutions, and otherR&D agriculture and
fisheries stakeholders.(Rita T. dela Cruz)
available at the RTCC. Completing thesetup are three internet
kiosks which can beused for research purposes inside thecenter.
Meanwhile, in a recent field visitto the region, a team headed
by Ms. DignaSandoval of BAR's TechnologyCommercialization Unit
(TCU) along withThe Manila Bulletin correspondent Ms.Melody Aguiba,
interviewed some of themanufacturers of the products on display
atthe RTCC.
Ms. Aguiba gathered materialswhich she will be using for her
articles inthe said broadsheet. “The projects are veryadmirable
especially the seaweed noodlesproduction in Sorsogon and Tabaco,
Albay.Also, the production of queen pineapple inCamarines Norte has
very good potentials.I didn't know that there are projects such
asthese.”
According to Dr. Elena delosSantos, Bicol Integrated
AgriculturalResearch Center (BIARC) manager,“Indeed, the products
from Bicol have a lotof potential. We are glad to be receiving alot
of support from BAR incommercializing our products. We shallensure
the sustainability of our on-goingprojects and we are very positive
that soon,our products will be recognized andbecome more
competitive in the local andeven in the global market.”
To further promote thecommercialization of the R&D
productsfrom Bicol, the media team of NBN 4'sMag-Agri Tayo will be
documenting thesuccessful BAR-supported projects in theregion for
airing soon. (Don P. Lejano)
Photos during the RTCC launch with BAR Dir.Nicomedes P. Eleazar
as guest of honor andrecent visit of TCU and ACD staff members
withwith Ms. Melody Aguiba of the Manila Bulletin.
Photos during the RTCC launch with BAR Dir.Nicomedes P. Eleazar
as guest of honor andrecent visit of TCU and ACD staff members
withwith Ms. Melody Aguiba of the Manila Bulletin.
PHOTOS: BIARC and DLEJANO
In the aftermath of typhoons “Ondoy”and “Pepeng” and their
damage to theagriculture and fishery sectors,
researchers found new areas for researchthat consider the
changing landscape, andproductivity, communities under
distressconditions and the future directions ofdevelopment. These
researchable areasparallel concerns related to climate changewithin
the social sciences.
The typhoons affected most ofLuzon island and this led
socialresearchers to study farmers' andfisherfolk's responses to
changing climatic
Typhoons prompt R&D responseOndoy, Pepengconditions
vis-à-vis productionmanagement systems including processingand
marketing. It also looked at farmers'and fisherfolk's coping
mechanisms, andtheir management of resources. Researchon the
community's distress and disasterpreparedness followed.
The immediate documentation onthe extent of damages in
agriculture andfisheries on major commodities in affectedareas
especially in Northern Luzon wasconducted in coordination with
regionaland local government units. A completeassessment was done
by the regional
agriculture and fisheries offices ofCagayan, Isabela, Ilocos
Norte,Pangasinan, and provinces in theCordillera Region. The
results of thedocumentation and assessment willsupport further the
researchable areas inthe next six to eight months and whichwill
help enable the government toprepare workable and effective
policieson agriculture and fisheriesdevelopment including support
andrelief operations to affected people andcommunities.
In order to properly use theturn to page 9
collected data and information on the typhoon damages, theBureau
of Agricultural Research (BAR), the R&D arm of DA, isbanking on
its partners to identify and provide appropriateresearch and
development directions for the coming years. Thisshall be a major
topic in the stakeholders' consultation for thepreparation of the
2010-2015 National Research, Developmentand Extension Agenda and
Programs (RDEAP) on 22-23 October2009 at Tagaytay City.
The National RDEAP provides researchers anddevelopment
practitioners with a blueprint of sectoral, commodityand
discipline-based research themes for institutional
researchcollaboration and cooperation.
Once research on aberrant climate change is completed,the
country can be better prepared for tomorrow's climaticdisturbances
and people can learn how to be more adaptive andresponsive to such
conditions. BAR will ensure that the nationaland regional RDEAP
will be allocated with funds and that thisshall be adhered to by
its member-partners under the DA NationalResearch and Development
System in Agriculture and Fisheries( ).Marlowe U. Aquino, PhD
Typhoons... page 4
One does not have to eat raw food always inorder to receive the
health benefits of foods that are richin phytochemicals. Many
phytochemicals are reasonablyheat stable and most of them are not
water solublemeaning they are not appreciably lost
duringconventional cooking methods, Dr. Rodriguez said.
Exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco, reducingstress and
maintaining a healthy body weight is essentialto every person's
health. On top of these, having a dietrich in fruits and vegetables
can become a part of aneffective strategy to maintain good health
and to reducethe risk of diseases.
Dr. Rodriguez mentioned
numerous times throughout the seminar to remindeveryone.
(Johanna B. Benavente)
“Eat fruits and vegetablesregularly to achieve a healthy body
andavoid diseases,”
Eat a rainbow... page 5
PHOTO: NDELROSARIO III
October 2009 Issue October 2009 Issue
-
NEWS NEWS
8 5BAR hronicleC BAR hronicleC
As a member of the Asia-PacificAssociation of
AgriculturalResearch Institutions (APAARI),
the Bureau of Agricultural Research(BAR) participated in the
“ExpertConsultation on Biopesticides andBiofertilizers for
Sustainable Agriculture”held on 27-29 October 2009 in
Taichung,Taiwan. Representing BAR was AssistantDirector Teodoro S.
Solsoloy.
The expert consultationworkshop is organized by APAARI
incollaboration with the Taiwanese Councilof Agriculture (COA),
Taiwan AgriculturalResearch Institute (TARI) and the Asia-Pacific
Consortium on AgriculturalBiotechnology (APCoAB). Need for
thisconsultation is being felt in view of theincreasing awareness
for the use ofbiological agents as pesticides andfertilizers to
achieve much needed
BAR joins APAARI experts' consultationon biopesticides &
biofertilizers in Taiwan
sustainableagriculture.
Accordingto recent studies, theindiscriminate useof
agrochemicalshas resulted toundesirable effectson both biotic
andabiotic componentsof the environment.This has led to the
substantial pollution of soil, air and water.Contamination of
ground water is resultingto the eutrophication of lake and
riverwaters causing depletion of oxygen and,thus, death of aquatic
life, nitrate pollution,increased emissions of gaseous nitrogenand
metal toxicities. The presence of nitratein potable water has been
blamed for healthanomalies such as birth defects, cancer
andimpaired nervous system.
However, with the increasingglobal awareness on the harmful
effects ofsynthetic plant protection agents andunabated production
of agrochemicals, thedemand for technologies and productsbased on
biological processes has alsoincreased leading to the development
ofbiopesticide and biofertilizers.
Although some ASEAN countrieshave made significant advances in
thedevelopment and use of biopesticides and
biofertilizers, their potential remainslargely underutilized due
to variableefforts and experiences in differentcountries.
Given these scenarios, severaltechnological and policy gaps have
beenidentified and were addressed during theconsultation
workshop.
The activity aimed to review thecurrent status of research,
developmentand use of biopesticides and biofertilizersin
agriculture at the regional and nationallevel, and to develop
consensus on theplace of biopesticides and biofertilizers
inconventional agricultural productionsystems. Issues of quality
requirements,quality control, regulatory
management,commercialization and marketing ofbiopesticides and
biofertilizers were alsotackled. It also aimed to identify the
roleof public and private sector organizationsand public-private
participation inpromoting the use of bio-agents inagriculture, and
to promote stewardship.
Attending the workshop wereinternational and national
expertscomposed of agriculturists, agro-chemists,plant
pathologists, entomologists andother professionals in
sustainableagriculture and biological sciences as wellas
representatives from civil societies andvarious farmers'
organizations. (
).Edmon B.
Agron
This year's winner of the Departmentof Agriculture's (DA) Gawad
Sakain the Outstanding Agricultural
Scientist Category is different from theprevious years. The
awardee comes fromthe fisheries sector and not from the
usualagricultural crops or livestock and poultrysector.
Given that the Philippines is anarchipelago, it is but fitting
that this year'sawardee comes from the marine
sciences,specifically, the aquaculture sector. In theadvent climate
change, sustainablefisheries management is one of the keysolutions
to save the environment andincrease the income of our
fishingcommunities. This is the mission that Dr.Marie Antonette
Juinio-Meñez has taken toheart.
Dr. Meñez is a professor at theMarine Science Institute,
University of thePhilippines Diliman. She is passionateabout her
work though, at times, toomodest to admit her accomplishments.
Sheis often surprised to hear from others thather research
discoveries and technologieshave become widely accepted and
adoptedby fisherfolk.
The impact of her researches andcontributions in the field was
noticed whenthe National Technical Committee (NTC)for the Gawad
Saka Search, headed by theBureau of Agricultural Research
(BAR),conducted field validations.
Fishermen who were interviewed
of
UP-MSI Professor is 2009 GawadSaka outstanding agri
scientist
were thankful for the technology thathelped save their
livelihood. Her long-term work on sea urchins (
has rehabilitated the stock,which was once on the verge of
totaldepletion. The results of her researchhave also provided
fisherfolk analternative to fishing, hence creating amore
sustainable coastal environment.She did not only teach the
fishermen toculture invertebrates, but she hasincluded them in the
research process.
During an interview at a projectsite in Bolinao, Pangasinan, Dr.
Meñeztold the Committee (NTC) that in one ofher researches, sea
urchins developed adisease causing discoloration. However,instead
of determining the cause herself,she asked the farmers to look into
it,which they later found out was caused bythe pollution generated
by nearbymilkfish pens, particularly, from thewaste of the feeds
used.
She stressed that for programsand projects to be
sustainable,researchers must involve the fisherfolk.They must learn
how to think forthemselves and be given the feeling thatthey have
as much stake in the success ofthe project as the project leader
orresearcher.
Her projects have strengthenedthe bond of the communities as
well astheir relationship with the localgovernment units in the
area. Her work
Tripneustesgratilla)
with various local government units(LGUs) have shown her
commitmentto helping the poorest coastal familiesby demonstrating
that science anddevelopment can be implemented inharmony with the
researcher and theirstudy group, both benefiting in theprocess. At
present she is developingan environmentally-sound culturetechnology
for sea cucumbers(
Dr. Meñez specializes inecology and culture of
marineinvertebrates, coastal resourcesmanagement, and population
genetics.She has a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D)in Biological
Sciences from theUniversity of Rhode Island in theUSA.
Holothuria scabra).
(Jude Ray P. Laguna)
Dr. Marie Antonette Juinio-Meñez
because, as we all know, there is,unfortunately, a preponderance
of calamitiesin this beloved country of ours.” She furtherstressed
that “Extension must addressconcerns relating to globalization
andliberalization, environmental concerns, socialjustice for the
rural poor, energy security,climate change, peace and development,
and ahost of other goals not traditionally associatedwith
extension.”
Following this line, people in theagriculture, fisheries and
forestry extensionservice must be well-versed on
extensionstrategies and in communicating the properinformation to
enhance activities in the ruralsector especially those affected by
climatechange. The changes are in evitable and needto be addressed
properly by research andextension for the proper application
oftechnologies especially in farming andfishing.
Based on this, Senator Legarda willwork for institutional
reforms such as the
Senator Legarda... page 1 allocation of a budget for extension
for theDepartment of Agriculture (DA) on FIELDSprogram to include
grants-in-aid for localextension works, as proposed in the
NationalExtension Bill, consistent with the AFMAlaw. Also, the
proposed bill willprofessionalize extension through rewardingcareer
paths that will make the extensionistsmore competent and capable in
addressingissues and concerns in agriculture, fisheriesand forestry
extension services.
Furthermore, she will ensure thatextension services shall
complement theefforts of environment and natural resourcesresearch
and development for better deliveryof programs and services to its
clientele onenvironmental protection for forest andcoastal
communities. This will alsoencourage communities to be organized
andtheir members provided with functionalliteracy through novel
pedagologicalapproaches like the Alternative LearningSystem.
Senator Legarda ended her speech
with a challenge to the network membersby advocating the reforms
in developmentthrough food security efforts,environmental
protection and management,and sustainable development of
theagriculture, fishery, forestry and naturalresources sectors.
The PEN marked the occasion bygiving its 2009 awards to the
outstandingworkers and projects in support toagriculture, fisheries
and forestrydevelopment. The winners are:Outstanding Extension
Project -Sustainable Agricultural ParticipatoryResearch and
Extension Model Projects(SAPREM) of UP Pahinungod;Outstanding
Extensionist (FieldExtensionist Category) - Ms. NormaLagmay,
provincial agriculturist of IlocosNorte; and Outstanding
Extensionist(Subject Matter Specialist Category) - Dr.Jose Medina
of UP Pahinungod based atUPLB, College, Laguna. (
)Marlowe U.
Aquino, PhD
Aseminar on indigenous plants
for health and wellness wassponsored by the Bureau of
Agricultural Research in this year'sAgrilink/ Foodlink/ Aqualink
2009. Heldevery year at the World Trade Center inPasay City, this
activity aims to gatherkey players in the agriculture, fisheriesand
food industry to showcase products,and innovations, and be a medium
forknowledge exchange. This event washeld on 7-9 October 2009.
Dr. Evelyn B. Rodriguez, anAssociate Professor at the Institute
ofChemistry at UP Los Baños presented,“Food Phytochemicals
Beneficial toHuman Health: Local Food PlantSources”. She mentioned
that there aremany plants in our surroundings that areedible and at
the same time contains
Eat a rainbow of colorsnutrients needed for a healthy body.
Wejust have to be aware of them.
Subtitled “Eat a rainbow ofcolors”, Dr. Rodriguez explained that
thecolor of a certain fruit or vegetabledetermines the essential
phytochemicalthat it contains. Phytochemicals aredefined as
bioactive non-nutrient plantcompounds in fruits, vegetables,
grainsand other plant foods that have beenlinked to reducing the
risk of majorchronic diseases.
The red color group includeslycopene, which reduces the risk
ofcancer, and anthocyanin, which delaysseveral diseases associated
with ageing.Tomatoes, watermelon and strawberriesare rich in these
two phytochemicals.
The yellow group has betacarotene and flavonoids which reduce
the
risk of heart diseases, some cancers andslows down ageing.
Squash, mango,oranges, cantaloupes and carrots are thepopular
sources.
The green color group isprimarily for lutein which helps
maintaingood vision. Plants rich in lutein are:pechay, kangkong,
gabi leaves, mustard,spinach, alugbati, saluyot and malunggay.
The blue/ purple group includesanthocyanin and phenolics which
alsoprevents cancer, heart disease and ageing.Eat eggplant, grapes,
plums, duhat andblueberries to prevent the said diseases.
Lastly, the white/ tan/ browngroup contains allyl sulfides
andpolyphenols which reduce the risk ofheart disease. Banana,
garlic, gingeronions, mushrooms, potatoes and whitecorn are just
some of its sources.
turn to page 9
October 2009 Issue October 2009 Issue
PHOTO: UP-MSI
-
NEWS NEWS
6 7October 2009 Issue BAR hronicleCBAR hronicleC
The Bureau of AgriculturalResearch announced the six
winners of the 21 NationalResearch Symposium held on 9
October2008 at the Fernando Lopez Hall of theBureau of Soils and
Water Management(BSWM) Bldg., Visayas Avenue,Diliman, Quezon
City.
Winning the “AFMA Best R&DPaper for Basic Research Category”
wasMaria Rovilla J. Luhan and HananiahSollesta of the Southeast
Asian FisheriesDevelopment Center-AquacultureDepartment
(SEAFDEC-AQD) for thestudy, “Growing the Reproductive
Cells(carpospores) of the Seaweed,
, in the LaboratoryUntil Outplanting in the Field andMaturation
to Tetrasporophyte”.
The study, “Development of aComputer Vision System for Milled
RiceQuality Analysis” by Manolito C.Bulaong and Ruben E. Manalabe
of theBureau of Postharvest and Extension(BPRE) and Oliver C.
Agustin of VeraEquinox Technologies won the “AFMABest R&D Paper
forTechnology/Information Generation-Agriculture Category”.
Tied at first as the "AFMA Best
st
Kappaphycus striatum
BAR announces 2009 AFMA BestR&D papers and poster awards
R&D Paper for
TechnologyAdaptation/Verification-AgricultureCategory" are the
studies, “AdaptabilityTest of Technologies for the Managementof
Jackfruit Fruit Fly (
Fabr.) in Region 8” by Carlos S.De la Cruz, Brenda B. Almeroda
andMario Socrates P. Tisado of the DA-RFUVIII - EVIARC and
"IncreasingProductivity of Yam through ImprovedCultural Management
Practices" byNorlyn B. Legaspi and Beatriz S. Malabof the Mariano
Marcos State University(MMSU).
The “AFMA Best R&D Paperfor the Socio-economics Category”,
wentto Yolanda T. Garcia of the University ofthe Philippines Los
Baños (UPLB) andNerissa D. Salayo for their study titled,“The Role
of InfrastructureDevelopments on Market PriceFormation of Major
Aquaculture Speciesin the Philippines”.
The last awardee was Liza G.Battad of the Philippine Carabao
Center(PCC) bagging this year's “AFMA BestR&D Paper for
Development Category”for the paper titled, “Intensifying
Village-Level Carabao-based Dairy Cooperative-Enterprise
Development in Non-
Bactroceraumbrosa
Traditional Dairy Communities”.The AFMA Best R&D Poster
Award went to the study titled,“Development of Improved
Varietiesof Mungbean (NSIC Mg14 and NSICMg15)” by Flora A. Jarilla,
EugeniaM. Buctuanon and Ma. Ana M. Alonzoof the Bureau of Plant
Industry-LosBaños National Crops Research andDevelopment Center
(BPI-LBNCRDC).
Awarding the winners werehonored guests, Dr. William G.Padolina,
chair of the Agriculture andFood Panel CongressionalCommission on
Science andTechnology and Engineering(COMSTE) and deputy
directorgeneral for Operations and SupportServices of the
International RiceResearch Institute (IRRI), andDepartment of
Agriculture (DA)Assistant Secretary for Policy andPlanning Preceles
H. Manzo, who wasthere on behalf of Secretary Arthur C.Yap.
This year's competitionfocused on the theme, "
"which defines the important role ofR&D in meeting the
challenges ofpoverty and food security, particularlyin the rural
areas through researchresults that have impact at thegrassroot
level.
BAR holds this yearly eventnot only to promote R&D
excellencebut more importantly, to give duerecognition to the
accomplishments ofagriculture and fisheries researchersfor their
notable achievements in thefield. It also serves as a good venue
todisseminate new technologies andknowledge, in support to
agricultureand fisheries modernization.
Winners of the 2009 AFMABest R&D Paper Awards for
eachcategory received PhP50,000 while thefirst and second
runners-up got PhP30,000 and PhP 20,000, respectively.Meanwhile,
the AFMA Best R&DPoster for 2009 received PhP 10,000,while the
first and second runners-uptook home PhP8,000 and
PhP5,000,respectively.
Sakahan,Kaalaman, Kaunlaran: Improving theLives of our Farmers
and Fisherfolkthrough Research and Development
(Rita T. dela Cruz)
Rovilla (Basic) Uy (TG/IG Fisheries) De la Cruz and Legaspi
(TA/TV Agri)
Garcia (Socio-economics) Bulaong (TG/IG Agri) Battad
(Development) Jarilla (R&D Poster)
Now on its third year, the Departmentof Agriculture (DA)
finallyannounced the winners of the 3rd O!
May Gulay Cooking Contest held on 11October 2009 at the World
Trade Center,Manila.
Hosting the show were ABS-CBNTV reporter, Ginger Conejero and
comedian,Jason Gainza. Meanwhile, AgricultureSecretary Arthur C.
Yap officially openedthe activity with his welcome remarks.
Six participating schools made it tothe finals, namely:
Bonifacio Javier NationalHigh School, Muntinlupa Business
HighSchool, Dalandanan National High School,Doña Teodora Alonzo
High School, PitogoHigh School, and Dr. Josefa Jara MartinezHigh
School.
Winning the grand prize werestudents, Adrian Caseñas and
RommelAlbano of the Dalandanan National HighSchool with their
recipe, "VeggieDynamite". The second and third prize went
Winners of DA 3rd OMGCooking Contest announced
to students Angelito Irorita Jr. and RheaJane Alano of Doña
Teodora Alonzo HighSchool (Eggplant Lasagna) and ShielaMae Palacio
and Shiela Marie Cesario ofDr. Josefa Jara Martinez High
School(Pechay Relleno in Coconut Sauce),respectively.
This activity is in support to theNational Nutrition Month
Celebration withthe ultimate aim of encouraginghouseholds in the
urban areas (mostespecially the youth) to cook affordableand
nutritious food using local agricultureproducts. This activity is
designed toencourage the development of vegetablerecipes that are
easy to prepare, affordable,and delicious. The contestants are
studentsfrom public high schools from the NationalCapital Region
(NCR).
BAR Director Nicomedes P.Eleazar and Asst. Director Teodoro
S.Solsoloy were also present to support theevent.
The O!May Gulay CookingContest is an initiative of DA
incollaboration with the Bureau ofAgricultural Research (BAR) and
theOffice of the Presidential Adviser for JobCreation (OPAJC).
(Rita T. dela Cruz)
Student cooks, Adrian Caseñas and RommelAlbano of Dalandanan
National High Schoolwin the grand prize. PHOTO: RDELACRUZ
be able to identify the most cost-effectivemeasures to mitigate
climate change. “Weneed research to predict climate-relatedchanges,
both at national and regionallevels, so that we can identify and
takemeasures that will enable us to adapt tothem as well as
facilitate the formulationof practical policy objectives to
supportthe sustainability of the program” headded.
According to Dr. Espaldon, theR&D Program on Climate Change
aims togenerate technologies for the mitigationand adaptation to
climate change andimprove the adaptive capacity of farmersand
fisherfolk by providing relevanttechnologies and information.
Through theprogram, BAR and its partners hope tobreed
plants/animals/fishery resources thatare more resilient to climate
variability,assess the vulnerability of aquatic andmarine resource
to climate change, andpromote cost-effective alternatives tofossil
fuel use in agriculture.
The program specified severalpriority researchable areas which
werecategorized as short- and long-termadaptation strategies, and
the short- andlong-term mitigation strategies.
Dr. Espaldon identified 10priority researchable areas under the
short-term adaptation strategies. These included:
BAR leads... page 11) documentation of indigenousknowledge, 2)
promotion anddissemination mechanisms of soil andwater
conservation, 3) development andpromotion of technologies for water
useefficiency in agriculture, 4) development ofan updated dynamic
cropping calendar formajor crops, 5) localized weather-basedearly
warning system for agriculturalproduction, 6) developing
soundmethodologies for localized seasonalclimate forecast system,
7) establishmentof climate change sensitive mariculturezoning
system, 8) development of agri-aqua farming systems in inundated
areas,9) promotion of value adding strategies foragricultural
produce, and 10) improvementof the Comprehensive Agricultural
LandUse Plan incorporating climate change riskinformation.
For the long-term adaptationstrategies, she cited five areas for
research.These included 1) selection/breeding ofdrought-resistant,
pest/disease-resistant,and flood-tolerant varieties, 2)
knowledge-based crop forecasting using advances inS&T, 3)
improved estimation of loss in fishproduction due to climate
change, 4)estimation of carrying capacity of seaweedsand other
mariculture commodities underincreased temperature, 5) monitoring
ofocean acidification, salinity and oceancolor, 6) vulnerability
mapping in coastal
areas/assessment of marineresources/marine protected areas, and
7)changes in spatial distribution andmigration patterns of
fish.
For the short-term mitigationstrategies, five priority
researchable areaswere identified. These were: 1) assessmentof
marginal lands/grasslands for expansionof food production using
lesser knownfruit trees species, 2) implementation
ofcommunity-based watershed projects, 3)reduction of methane
emission from swinefarms, 4) management and control of newand
resurgent diseases and pathogens oflivestock and poultry, and 5)
improvingcapacities by thorough climate riskassessment and
management.
For the long-term strategies, theresearchable priority areas
include, 1)utilization of agricultural waste andbiomass for biofuel
production, 2)freshwater production using cost-effectivecommunity
based hybrid biomass-solardesalination system, 3) assessment of
cropquality in different agro-climaticconditions, 4) evaluation of
agriculturalmanagement practices for soil carbonsequestration and
mitigation of greenhousegases in long-term crop protection
underupland agro-ecosystem, and 5)identification of changes in the
soilmicrobial diversity in the lowland, upland,and hilly lands as
affected by climatechange. (Rita T. dela Cruz)
October 2009 Issue
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