The DA-Bicol Region and the DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) launched the DA-Bicol Region's TechnoMerkado on 20 February 2024 at the regional office’s compound in San Agustin, Pili, Camarines Sur.
The TechnoMerkado embodied the integration of research for development (R4D) breakthroughs and technology promotion in the field of agricultural research. This initiative was meant to disseminate advancements in agriculture to industry experts in both public and private sectors, by fostering accessibility to valuable information and enhancing efficiency and productivity in all agri-based products.
Around 130 food and non-food products were showcased. Also, 30 Farmers Cooperative Associations participated who also showcased their respective products at the DA TechnoMerkado.
During the launching, Dr. Mercedita A. Sombilla, undersecretary for DA Bureaus underscored the need to further advance the majority of locally-made products by adhering to acceptable standards to have a strong edge in competing in the export market and ensure sustainability.
As a rejoinder, DA-BAR director Junel B. Soriano underlined that from the development of technologies, its application and implementation should immediately reach the marginalized sector of farmers and fisherfolks. This is to enable them to reap its benefits while addressing the challenges of food sufficiency and profit. He also emphasized that technologies should then be scaled up through innovative strategies and development.
The event also saw the emergence of the DA-BAR funded projects and generated technologies in the region such as queen pineapple, native chicken feeds, tissue culture planting materials, and various products from mushroom, pili, ragiwdiw or seagrass, and the veggie chips.
In 2007, DA-BAR funded the establishment of the Regional Technology Commercialization Center, which has now evolved into the "DA TechnoMerkado," providing intellectual property assistance, technology incubation, and showcasing matured technologies.
The launching of TechnoMerkado was led by DA Bicol Regional Executive Director Rodel P. Tornilla, and attended by other regional officials and staff, in the presence of majority of farmers beneficiaries.