Awarding the best products and booths wrapped-up DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research’s (BAR) 36th Anniversary and National Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Exhibition (NAFTE) on 17 August 2023 at the Teacher’s Hall, Central Luzon State University (CLSU), Science City of Muñoz.

Claiming the first spot for the best product in the food category was Benguet State University’s Chopsuey Chips while the non-food category was awarded to DA-Soccksargen’s Organically-grown Complete Ration Mix. Moreover, crowned as the best booth among thirty other exhibitors was the DA-Cagayan Valley region, boasting homegrown products and technologies on the Mushroom Value Chain.

Bagging the second and third place for the best product in the food category were DA-Zamboanga Peninsula’s Healtea en Montes and DA-Bicol Region’s Sorsoganons’ Pili Milk, respectively. Meanwhile, second and third placers for the non-food category were claimed by DA-CALABARZON’s Cacao Lip Balm and Central Bicol State University’s Stingless Bee Soap. Completing the top 3 for the best booth are DA-Bicol Region in second place and DA-Central Luzon in the third.

Recognized for their uniqueness, relevance, product attributes, presentation, and market potential, the winners were each presented with a certificate of recognition and cash award. Likewise, the best booths were identified in terms of their originality and creativity; use of indigenous materials in the design; organization of displays; showcase of BAR-funded materials; and how knowledgeable their institution's representatives were in terms of their respective products.

Highlighted  as well during the ceremony was the invaluable contribution of the CLSU in the conduct of the NAFTE alongside the bureau’s 36th Anniversary celebration. To materialize the bureau’s appreciation, a certificate was handed to university president Dr. Edgar Orden.

“May we all be convinced that the success of this event– the partnership, collaboration, commitment, and dedication– surely brought all these successes today”, affirmed BAR Program Monitoring, Evaluation, and Linkaging Division head, Dr. Anthony B. Obligado, formally closing the exhibit and anniversary celebration. Dr. Obligado also acknowledged several key officials, staff, partners, participants, and farmers– the people who formed part of  the celebration.(### Geline Nicole A. Morillo)