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NEWS & EVENTS

May 02, 2023

SSNM: The success story of a cooperative realizing the economic benefits of cassava

“May pera sa cassava.”Thus, said Juandrilo A. Alagos, manager of Topland Farmers Cooperative (TFC) in Koronadal, South Cotabato. In an interview, Alagos shared how his cooperative of 83 cassava farmers benefited from the technology called Site-Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM) of cassava implemented by DA-SOCCSKSARGEN and funded by the DA-BAR in 2017.The TFC was officially registered with the Cooperative Development Authority in 1991. It started with 42 members, 30 males and 12 females. They cultivate a total land area of 103 hectares for corn production by 2013 to present and 43ha for rice production from 1991 to 2016.  Expansion of membership In 2017, when the SSNM project was introduced by DA-SOCCSKSARGEN, the areas of operation of the cooperative expanded to South Cotabato and targeted at least 100 barangays. This time the cooperative had additional membership of 83 cassava farmers. With this, the membership of the cooperative expanded from 42 in 2013 to 125 in 2017 to 142 in 2023. The interest in growing cassava grew due to the SSNM technology introduced to them by DA-SOCCSKSARGEN. Alagos recalled that during that time their practice in cassava was “basta makatanim lang” (planting anything is good enough). But when the intervention came, the areas of the cooperative’s operations scaled up.  Expansion of area of production According to Alagos, the cooperative first tried the experimental study of SSNM in the five hectares of land planted to cassava. After the project study, they witnessed the good results and decided to branch out to almost 200ha of land planted purely to cassava. He claimed that they were inspired by the SSNM technology because their production of cassava increased along with their income. He recalled, “Dati kaunti lang ang tanim namin na cassava kasi wala po kaming alam. Wala kaming mga interventions na ginagawa para lumaki ang produksyon at kita namin. Wala kaming [market linkages]. Hindi namin alam kung saan ibebenta ang aming cassava.” “Pero nang mag-umpisa kami ay marami na po kaming mga linkages na pwede naming pagdalahan ng aming cassava. Mayro’n na po kami tinatawag ngayon na may pera sa cassava,” added Alagos. Alagos gave credit to the DA for its support in the technical aspect of producing high-volume and good-quality cassava through the interventions from the DA-Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP) and through SSNM. “Dahil nga sa tinuro ng [DA] hindi lang sa pagtatanim, kundi tinuruan din kami kung paano naming ibenta, kung paano tumaas ang kita ng kooperatiba,” he mused.The market was already there through the intervention of the San Miguel Corporation, the buyer of cassava in the whole region. “Malaking tulong po dahil hindi na kami mahihirapan sa pag-deliver ng aming produkto at may sigurado na bibili sa aming pananim na cassava,” Alagos shared. Alagos said that through the SSNM technology, the production of cassava increased from 10 to 15 metric tons per hectare, to 25-60 mt/ha. The variety of cassava that they are using are Lakan 1 and Rayong 72. With the good outcome of the SSNM technology, he shared that they would continue to use the technology and share it with other cassava farmer cooperatives. He encouraged all cassava farmers to start planting cassava because it brings increased income. Zaldy M. Boloron, DA-SOCCSKSARGEN regional technical director for Operations and Philippine Rural Development Program deputy project director, said that the adoption of the SSNM technology led to the increase in production area of 2,970ha, in the yield of 29.42mt/ha with a production of 87,387mt/ha. 

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May 13, 2023

DA-BAR-funded technology commercialization center inaugurated in Cagayan

DA-BAR recently marked an important milestone with the inauguration of the Technology Commercialization Center at DA-Cagayan Valley-Research Division in San Gabriel, Tuguegarao City on 8 May 2023. Under the leadership of newly reappointed director Junel B. Soriano, the bureau aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector. The facility was established through funding support from DA-BAR and in collaboration with the Agri-based Developed Processed Products Technology Business Incubator of DA-Cagayan Valley. Its primary objective is to expedite the journey of interested stakeholders and agripreneurs, providing them with the necessary resources and expertise to transform their ideas into commercially successful ventures.One of the center's key roles is to showcase and exhibit all mature technologies developed by DA-Cagayan Valley. This dedicated space serves as a hub for commercializing the region’s intellectual property, enabling efficient knowledge transfer and bridging the gap between research and development activities and the market.By offering essential services and resources, the Technology Commercialization Center aspires to support innovators, entrepreneurs, and businesses throughout the process of bringing their groundbreaking ideas to the marketplace. The center will facilitate networking, provide guidance, and nurture collaboration to ensure the success of agri-based ventures.In addition to its role in technology commercialization, the building will also serve as a base for Cagayan and Tuguegarao operations, enhancing accessibility and expanding outreach to potential incubatees.With the establishment of this center, DA-BAR reaffirmed its commitment to drive agricultural innovation and economic growth in the Cagayan Valley region. By creating an ecosystem that fosters collaboration and entrepreneurship, the bureau and its partners aim to propel the agriculture sector forward, ushering in a new era of sustainable and profitable agri-based businesses.

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May 10, 2023

Soriano reappointed as DA-BAR chief, Lales reassumes role as assistant director

The DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) warmly welcomed Dr. Junel B. Soriano as he takes on the bureau leadership, following his recent reappointment as director. Consequently, former officer-in-charge Joell H. Lales reassumes his title as DA-BAR’s assistant director. A simple turnover ceremony was held on 9 May 2023, marking yet another significant movement in the bureau directorship.Before stepping down from his post as the officer-in-charge, assistant director Joell H. Lales urged the bureau to pour out their support for the returning director. “I am sure that being a seasoned public servant [...], we are expecting to see a more robust growth and performance from our institution,” said Lales.A special Management Committee (ManCom) meeting convened following the ceremony. Members presented, among others, updates on the current research for development and extension (R4DE) thrusts and priority programs, projects, and activities to keep the incoming director up to speed on the current operations of the bureau.To end, Dr. Soriano presented a set of enhanced adaptive and innovative strategies that will set the direction for the agri-fisheries sector’s R4DE in his term. His 6-pointer agenda covers technology development, information dissemination on relevant R4DE results and outputs, monitoring and evaluation schemes, strategic policies, capacity building, and international linkages. "As we turn a new page in this narrative, we are yet again called to renew and further strengthen our commitment. But one thing that remains certain in all these is that we will tread this path as one Bureau of Agricultural Research," affirmed director Soriano.

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Feb 24, 2024

Pili milk launched in Bicol Region

In response to the popularity of milk products, the pili kernel was explored as a potential raw material for a plant-based milk due to its promising nutritional content. As a result, the DA-Bicol Region introduced the newly developed Pili Milk on 21 February 2024 at SM City Sorsogon.Researchers from the DA-Sorsogon Dairy Production and Technology Center (SDPTC), led by SDPTC superintendent Pedro Oliver and former SDPTC Agricultural Center chief III Agnes Espinola, developed a plant-based milk alternative from the pili nut kernel, taking advantage of its nutritional benefits.The DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) supported the development and market assessment of Pili Milk. This initiative aligns with the vision of the Sorsogon Pili Development Board to boost demand for Pili production, providing additional income to farmers and processors while introducing pili products to both local and global markets, ultimately aiming to declare Sorsogon as the Pili Capital of the country.DA-BAR director Junel B. Soriano emphasized that Pili Milk is more than just a beverage; it symbolizes sustainability for farmers by increasing the demand for raw pili. Dr. Edgar R. Madrid, regional technical director for Research and Regulations, pointed out that unlike traditional dairy sources, pili milk is not affected by animal health issues, making it a reliable alternative.The launching was graced by officials and representatives from various collaborating institutions, including Sorsogon City mayor Ma. Ester E. Hamor, DA-Bicol regional technical Director for Research and Regulations Edgar R. Madrid represented Regional Executive Director Rodel Tornilla, and Sorsogon State University President and Chairperson of Sorsogon Pili Development Board Geraldine F. De Jesus. Other attendees included DA-Bicol Region officials, Sorsogon Dairy Production and Technology Center Superintendent Pedro Oliver, OIC Research Division Chief Ailyn R. Adante, municipal agriculturists from LGU Casiguran, Juban, and Sorsogon City, members of Barcelona Development Cooperative, and pili processors from the region.

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Nov 30, -0001

DA-Bicol Region launches TeknoMerkado, showcase R4D products

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.

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Apr 27, 2023

Market awaits processed organic vegetable, fruit products in Cavite

“In collaboration with the Department of Education, we conducted a survey revealing students’ high interest in buying vegetable chips and natural fruit juices as their snacks at schools in Cavite. Two institutional buyers and grocery owners in the province signified willingness to purchase our products as soon as it becomes commercially available,” DA-Cavite Agricultural Research and Experiment Station (CARES) researcher Eva B. Pugay reported during the completion review of projects under the National Organic Agriculture program on 27 April 2023.In 2021, DA-CARES research team led by Pugay implemented a project to determine the demand and market potential of processed organic fruits and vegetables, and capacitate Yakap at Halik Multi-Purpose Cooperative in fruit and vegetable processing.Survey showed 179 out of 187 elementary students want vegetable chips and fruit juice products. Among the top two choices are squash and mixed pinakbet for vegetable chips, and  guyabano and langka for fruit juice.“Grocery owners in the province are committed to buying our products even if our production becomes big enough,” Pugay stated.Through the funding assistance of DA-BAR, the research team cooperated with the said cooperative situated at Castaños Cerca, General Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavite.The members are engaged in integrated organic farming of various crops, livestock production, organic fertilizer and vermicomposting production, and organic fruits and vegetables production before the implementation of the project.Aside from promoting a nutritive and safe snack for consumers, Pugay explained that the project shall contribute in sustaining the production of organically grown crops by augmenting the income of organic farming practitioners. “Some of the produce of our farmers become unprofitable particularly during the lean season,” she mentioned.“Napatunayan ng aming value chain analysis na malaking tulong na matuto ang aming mga magsasaka na i-proseso ang mga prutas at gulay na kanilang inaani upang ito ay mapakanibanagan at mabawasan ang pagkasayang,” Yakap at Halik Multi-Purpose Cooperative-Cavite Chapter chair Gabriel Arubio said.Members of the said cooperative were trained in good manufacturing practices and in processing organically grown vegetables and fruits into chips and juice powder through the use of vacuum fryer. Moreover, the members of the cooperative were also assisted to come up with an organizational structure.“Through the research, we were able to strengthen the capacity and boost the confidence of organic farming practitioners here in General Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavite by confirming the potential demand and institutional buyers of the processed organic vegetable and fruit products,” Pugay added.To date, the project is to be recommended for its second phase of implementation that will mass produce and commercialize the organic fruit and vegetable products.

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