Department of Agriculture NEWS BUREAU OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH ISSN 1655-3942 RDELACRUZ hronicle Visit our official website at http://www.bar.gov.ph 2007 BINHI AWARDEE BARC Agricultural Newsletter of the Year Volume 9 Issue No. 8 A monthly publication of the Bureau of Agricultural Research AUGUST 2008 Cacao industry gets a lift in R&D

BAR ALBUM took off in the 1980s, particularly in Cacao Roadmap. Mindanao, as more investments were “The plan is to intercrop at least 50 poured into commercial farms and on million cacao trees with coconut producing at grinding facilities before cacao least 100,000 metric tons of export-quality cacao production dwindled in the 1990s. beans. If this happens, P60,000 to P80,000 To renew the interest of additional annual income per hectare can be More than 2,000 farmers participated farmers and stakeholders in planting gained from cacao harvest. This is a big at the rice information caravan cacao, the Bureau of Agricultural opportunity for families in rural areas,” said First info rice caravan draws launched in Lubao, Pampanga. Research (BAR) hosted on 8 August Ramos. 2008 a consultation meeting with the To realize this goal, CocoaPhil is private sector and DA units seeking to collaborate with DA to encourage more than 2,000 farmers concerned in crop research and farmers to go into cacao farming by making development (R&D) to discuss the turn to page 5 ore than 2,000 farmers and productivity in the midst of the increasing FIELDS Program for the farmer-participants. status of the cacao industry in the F agriculture stakeholders attended input prices. Through this info caravan, DA Dr. Malabanan stressed the country and explore possible areas of IN THIS ISSUE... the Rice Information Caravan specifically sought to heighten farmers' importance of the info caravan as a venue for collaboration. M In the meeting, Jenny awareness on the FIELDS Program for Cacao industry gets a lift in R&D...... 1 conducted by the Department of DA to relay its specific programs particularly Cacao agriculture. FIELDS, which stands for on rice against the backdrop of the Remoquillo of DA GMA-HVCC Eleazar receives Medalya ng Karangalan...... 1 Agriculture-Regional Field Unit 3 (DA- Angara urges DA-DOST initiatives to survive...... 2 RFU) in Lubao, Pampanga on 26 August FIertilizer, rrigation and other rural government's food production drive and ow that the coffee industry in the Program said that cacao is now part of the commodities prioritized by HVCC because TechCom adds value to agriculture...... 3 2008. infrastructure,E xtension, training and Agriculture Secretary Arthur C. Yap’s country has been revived, the local Market value of abalone in Central Visayas...... 4 of its market potential and the thrust of the The Rice Info Caravan, which is farmers' education,LD oans, ryers and other programs to boost agricultural productivity Ncacao industry is waiting for the much- Northern Mindanao develops strategies...... 4 program to shift to other commodities that New BFAR research center in Bicol inaugurated...... 5 the first of a series slated this year, hopes to postharvest facilities andS eeds, is and farmers' profitability. needed boost for it to become competitive in will help start new industries. 8 Outstanding BAR employees awarded...... 6 increase the farmers' awareness and access implemented by DA through its Rice Self- To further increase farmers’ the local and international markets for cacao's The meeting was highlighted by PCA concludes 7th National Coconut Festival...... 7 to technologies and development programs Sufficiency Program that aims to make the awareness and participation, six booths were famous by-product—cocoa. BAR IKM services and programs assessed...... 8 the presentation of Josephine Ramos, field of the government to increase their country 98 percent sufficient in the grain in installed at the venue highlighting each According to the cacao industry BAR conducts Collaborative Extension Service...... 9 operations manager of the Cocoa Health and wellness benefits from seaweeds...... 10 two years' time by targeting higher component of the FIELDS Program and two situationer posted by the High-Value RDELACRUZ Foundation Philippines, Inc. (CocoaPhil), Learning tropical fruit wine processing...... 11 harvests of 18.55 million mt next additional booths specific for the National Commercial Crops (HVCC) Program of the First rice info rice caravan draws more 2,000 farmers...... 12 on the proposed strategic action plan on the year and 19.77 million mt in 2010. Food Authority (NFA) and DA-Agribusiness Department of Agriculture (DA), the industry The FIELDS Program of and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS). DA is part of President Gloria The Bureau of Agricultural Macapagal-Arroyo's commitment Research (BAR), being the national to improve the country's food coordinator for agriculture and fisheries R&D Eleazar receives Quezon Medalya ng Karangalan production which she first pointed and part of theE xtension component of the out during her first State of the FIE LDS Program, participated in the booth III NDELROSARIO In his acceptance speech, Director Nation Address and was further exhibit. MISD Asst. Head Julia A. Lapitan, or his outstanding achievements in Eleazar, who was born and grew up in reiterated during the National with staff members, Rita T. dela Cruz and research management and Tagkawayan, Quezon, recognized his fellow Food Summit in April 2008. Nicanor B. del Rosario III, participated in the Fadministration, BAR Director awardees who are highly respected in their Dr. Frisco M. booth exhibit featuring some of BAR’s Nicomedes P. Eleazar was awarded the respective fields of expertise. Malabanan, coordinator of the supported R&D projects on rice. prestigious Quezon Medalya ng Among his fellow awardees are: Ginintuang Masaganang Ani The next information caravan is Karangalan on 19 August 2008 at the Justice Stephen Cruz,judiciary ; Edicio De (GMA) Rice Program, provided slated on 29 August 2008 in Iloilo City and Quezon Convention Center, City, la Torre, theology, education and social Farmer-participants rush to ATI-BAR booth to get information an overview of the GMA Rice on 2 September 2008 in Masbate. (Rita T. Quezon Province. work; Ramon Grimaldo, fisherfolk leader ; materials onExtension, training and farmers’ education which is one Program and background of the dela Cruz) The Quezon Medalya ng of the component programs of FIELDS, during the rice info caravan. Karangalan is the highest award conferred Justice Angelina Gutierrez,law ; Nelia by the people of Quezon Province to its Hizon,public health ; Rolando Ong Bon outstanding citizens for their meritorious Jieng,herbal medicine ; Atty. Asis Perez, contributions to society. environmental law; Rebecca Ruga, farmer DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE hronicle For 2008, Director Eleazar was leader; Cesar Sia, medicine ; Hobart Dator BARC recognized as the top candidate among the Sr.,public service (posthumous); Conrado 13 awardees for garnering the highest Dayrit Sr.,medicine (posthumous); and RDMIC Bldg., Visayas Ave.,cor. Elliptical Rd. point average as scored by the Quezon Fabian Millar,philanthropist (posthumous). Quezon Governor Rafael P. Nantes (right) puts the Diliman,Quezon City 1104 Day Awards Committee composed of The awarding ceremony was led medal to BAR Dir. Nicomedes P. Eleazar (left) while PHILIPPINES officials from the provincial government by Quezon Governor Rafael P. Nantes and Senator Franklin Drilon (center) awards the plaque. of Quezon and respected individuals in the Senator Franklin Drilon who was invited as province. The award is given annually in the guest of honor. the University of the Philippines Los Baños time for the province's commemoration of Prior to this award, Director College of Agriculture Alumni Association President Manuel L. Quezon's birth Eleazar also received the Distinguished (UPLBCAAA) in 2007. (Miko Jazmine J. anniversary. Alumnus Award for the same category from Mojica) Entered as second class mail at the Quezon City Central Post Office under permit no. 753-01 NCR NEWS FEATURE Angara urges DA-DOST initiatives LearningLearning tropical fruit wine processing to survive current food crises CHRISTMAS B. DE GUZMAN ouis Pasteur said that wine is the agriculture today: Senator Angara, who was Agriculture most healthful and the most foodand fuel . Secretary from 1999-2000, has made some Lhygienic of all beverages. It can RDELACRUZ Unfortunately, the remarkable contributions to the agricultural give the human body 500 calories that are budget for R&D is development wherein he had the opportunity to normally taken from fats and declining despite its implement his own creation, the Agriculture carbohydrates. All this energy is importance to food and Fisheries Modernization Act (AFMA) and completely consumed by the body and will production,” the closely watched the improvement of food not add an ounce to the body weight. senior lawmaker production programs and support services. (Lichine, et al. 1968) stated. Overall, the agricultural sector has One of the seminars conducted He underlined the realized a growth rate of three percent since during the 2008 Agriculture and Fisheries importance of R&D 2000, compared with a 1.2 percent growth over Technology Commercialization Forum in the overall the past two decades. organized by the Bureau of Agricultural productivity of the His term as agriculture secretary was Research was on processing of tropical agriculture sector marked by the implementation of breakthrough fruit wines. Prof. Erlinda I. Dizon of the and the economy as agricultural programs on food security, seed Food Science Cluster, College of Senator Angara delivers his speech during the opening program while (L-R) and crop production, and strong support for DA Asec. Dennis B. Araullo, BAR Dir. Nicomedes P. Eleazar, and IRRI Deputy a whole. Agriculture, University of the Philippines Dir. Gen. William G. Padolina listen from the presidential table. “We have very R&D. Los Baños, served as the resource speaker. good researchers in Recently, he has been advocating for It was held on 22 August 2008 at the SM RBERNARDO the country. Funds an adequate funding for AFMA. According to th Megatrade Hall 2, 5 Level, SM Megamall, Fruit wines developed by the Food Science Cluster, College of Agriculture, UPLB. must be channeled out to SUCs with the him, AFMA is the modernization blueprint of Mandaluyong City. enator Edgardo J. Angara underscored technical expertise to conduct research,” he the agricultural sector and sound programs Prof. Dizon said that wine is a the need for the Department of added. must be developed and combined with wine can deter food poisoning. It can help foetida), pinya (pineapple, Ananas comosus product made by normal alcoholic Linn.), saging (banana, Musa sp.) , and SAgriculture (DA) and the Department Angara also stressed that there must adequate funding. fermentation of juice from sound, ripe wipe out the bacteria that are responsible for “The lack of funding support could sampalok(tamarind, Tamarindus indica of Science and Technology (DOST) to pool be an immediate transfer of technologies and fruits which contains 8-18 percent alcohol food-related stomach problems. In addition, disrupt what could have been the successful Linn.). their research funds and personnel together allow the SUCs to immediately patent their by volume. red wine reduces the build up of fat cells in modernization of Philippine agriculture,” he “In fruit wine processing, sorting to address the current pressing issue on food products and bring them down to the grassroot There are several health benefits the arteries, thus it protects wine-drinkers production. concluded. (Rita T. dela Cruz) and washing of the raw ingredients are level. “Once the policy is set on technology that can be derived from wine. Aside from against heart disease. Specifically, he suggested that a always the first steps. Crushing and slicing transfer, there will be more being a healthy beverage, it was said that Recent studies in medicine have network among selected state universities incentives to conduct more shown positive effects of moderate wine are next in the process, followed by and colleges (SUCs) that can do research be consumption to the heart. dilution, blending, scooping, sugar market-oriented research,” he CDEGUZMAN established, to which Angara promised to said. One of the popular findings is the adjustment, inoculation, and establishment support being the current chair of the “With IRRI, PhilRice, “French Paradox.” France is considered both of mother starter or culture,” as she Committee on Agriculture and Food. FAO, and other CGIAR members as land of wine-producers and wine-drinkers. discussed the process of fruit wine making. Angara made the commitment at helping us, I am sure we can cope It is one of the countries with the highest She added that the next process the 2008 Agriculture and Fisheries and survive the food crisis. We amount of saturated fat intake which is involves fermentation. Once fermentation Technology Commercialization Forum and don't have to feel so hopeless. We positively correlated witharteroschlerosis , st begins, regardless of the chosen path, it will Exhibit and 21 BAR Anniversary have the people, the yet there is low incidence of coronary heart normally continue on until all of the sugar Celebration on 21 August 2008 where he infrastructure, and the training to disease. (Landrault, et al. 2001) has been converted to alcohol and a dry was the keynote speaker and one of the do it. We just need concentration Wine can also prevent cancer. The wine is produced. honored guests. and focus and implement it as a catechins in red wine have been proven Senator Angara (center) leads the ribbon cutting ceremony during “The central role of R&D is deliberate national policy,” effective in reducing cancer risks. It can also From there, harvesting, labeling, focused on the two major issues faced by Angara stressed. the opening of the 2008 A/F TechCom Forum and Exhibit; joining bottling and aging follow in that order. him are BAR Dir Eleazar (left) and Asst. Dir. Solsoloy (right). help treatanorexia (characterized by the loss RBERNARDO of appetite), since the alcohol in Problems that can be encountered concentrated form in grape wine improves in processing fruit wines, as mentioned by appetite by prompting the flow of saliva and Prof. Dizon, include: seasonality of raw BAR Chronicle is the monthly publication of the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) of the DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE gastric secretions. Nonetheless, wine is a materials; inconsistent quality of products; hronicle Department of Agriculture (DA), which is mandated to ensure that all agricultural researches are mild natural tranquilizer as it reduces anxiety limited supply of wine bottles, seals, or BARC coordinated and undertaken for maximum utility to agriculture. This publication provides regular and tension. closures; lack of proper quality control; and updates on BAR s activities as the country s national coordinator for agriculture and fisheries R&D. Some of the locally produced lack of technical know-how. The official monthly publication of DA-BAR It also highlights features and news articles concerning NaRDSAF-member institutions. wines arebasi (sugarcane wine), laksoy On the other hand, she enumerated (nipa wine),tapuy (rice wine), and tuba the challenges in today's wine RICARDO G. BERNARDO JULIA A. LAPITAN (coco wine). manufacturers such as production of RITA T. DELA CRUZ ANTHONY A. CONSTANTINO head, ACS-MISD consistent quality products, competitive managing editor/layout reproduction/printing Meanwhile, sources of tropical MARLOWE U. AQUINO, PhD fruit wines includeatis (sugar advantage in terms of product presentation MANUEL F. BONIFACIO, PhD JULIA A. LAPITAN head, MISD apple/sweetsop,Anonas quamosa L .) , bignay (packaging, label, closure, or seal), consulting editor VICTORIA G. RAMOS (Antidesma bunius L .), dalandan (orange, innovative products, willingness to work circulation NICOMEDES P.ELEAZAR, CESO IV hard to establish a thriving business, adviser Citrus lanatus), duhat (Philippine plum, MARLOWE U. AQUINO, PhD protecting the natural flavor of the product, RITA T. DELA CRUZ Syzygium cuminiL. skeels), guyabano For subscription and inquiries please contact:Applied Communication Section , Management Information and Systems CHRISTMAS B. DE GUZMAN identifying functional properties of the Division (MISD), Bureau of Agricultural Research, Department of Agriculture 3/F RDMIC Bldg., Visayas Ave., cor. Elliptical (soursop,Anona muricata ), kalumpit MA. ELOISA E. HERNANDEZ product, expanding cultivation area for Rd., Diliman, Quezon City 1104 PHILIPPINES (Terminalia edulis Linn.), lipote ( Syzygium MIKO JAZMINE J. MOJICA Telephone No.+63 (02) 928-8505 local 3026-3027 Fax: (02) 927-5691 or (02) 927-0227 minor but potential fruits for making wine, writers polycephaloides), mangga (mango, e-mail:[email protected] Articles are also available online. Please visit us at: http://www.bar.gov.ph Mangifera sp.), mangosteen ( Garcinia and utilization of by-products from wine Prof. Erlinda I. Dizon of Food Science Cluster, processing. College of Agriculture, UPLB mangostanaLinn.), passion fruit ( Passiflora

hronicle 2 BARChronicle August 2008 Issue August 2008 Issue BARC 11 FEATURE NEWS Healthand wellness benefits MEHERNANDEZ TECHCOM adds value to AGRICULTURE SACY underlines 4 factors for successful TechCom implementation

fromseaweeds explored RBERNARDO monitoring the supply and profit. “We need to push BAR into CHRISTMAS B. DE GUZMAN That is why TechCom is very developing partnership with regional and critical. We have to have something localized centers and even with state different to offer.” universities and colleges that have technical ccording to statistics, people who live cancer cells by inducingapoptosis (natural In line with his earlier capabilities that we can utilize,” Yap reiterated. in Japan are healthier and actually cell death) to a greater extent than the other point, Yap enumerated four Another important aspect in Alive longer than the people in the carotenoids. Moreover, it can induce important factors that come to mind technology commercialization that Yap cited is United States. Seaweed is a staple food of the apoptosis in human leukemia cells. when one talks of technology Extension. With the devolvement of extension island country of Japan. This is the key factor In terms of wellness, a new commercialization. These are: to the local government units, Sec. Yap to their health and life longevity. Seaweed product line developed from seaweed market research, research and revealed his frustration of how difficult it is contains higher fiber than vegetables, more extracts is theSeamoy (with approved patent development(R&D), extension , and now for DA to control as to which direction the protein than meat, and more calcium than and trademark). This is a seaweed-based, capital. agricultural extension is and should be heading. milk. Seaweed is actually a good ingredient to low-cost air freshener gel that uses sweet “isMarket research The last and most important factor include in everyone's diet. floral scents to give every room, car, lockers, Dr. Marco Nemesio E. Montaño holds aSeamoy sample important because it determines according to Yap isCapital. “At the end of the Dr. Marco Nemesio E. Montaño of and cabinets a clean, fresh smell. The gel during his seminar on seaweeds. what the market wants and day, the question boils down to one thing: Will the Marine Science Institute, College of can be easily handled and packed in a monitors what the competitors are it be funded?” he said. As a success story, he Science, University of the Philippines variety of ways. room temperature, therefore, preventing the doing.” In view of this, DA has sampled the case of Mr. Lito Arenas of LA Diliman, Quezon City, discussed the health The use of seaweeds as a base clogging of air-conditioning units. The established various trade desk Trading who started as a mango picker but is and wellness benefits of seaweeds in a ingredient for air fresheners has improved residue of the seaweed-based air freshener offices to specifically conduct now one of the biggest exporters of mangoes in seminar at the 2008 Agriculture and Fisheries the quality of those existing in the market gel is biodegradable making the product market research and monitor what the country. Technology Commercialization Forum today. Air freshener gels usually last only for environment-friendly. the neighboring countries are doing “All this would have not been organized by the Bureau of Agricultural two to three weeks whereas some soft gels, Another product from seaweeds, as in the name of global possible if he was not able to get sufficient Research (BAR). He underscored the which may contain soft paraffin, can cause mentioned by Dr. Montaño, is the red sushi competitiveness and efficiency. funding support from the Agricultural multitude effects of dietary algae, which clogging in air-conditioning units. sheet. The product is derived from This endeavor is in cooperation Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ACEF),” include having anti-oxidant, anti-viral, anti- Likewise, air freshener gels are expensive Halymenia durvillaei. Unlike other sushi with the Department of Trade and he further noted. inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-tumor and owing to the high production cost of its base sheets, this exhibits a bright red color which Secretary Arthur C. Yap Industry (DTI) and the Department ACEF is a funding facility aimed at ingredient,carrageenan . Carrageenan is an anti-wrinkle properties, aside from the fact enhances the appearance of the sushi sheet. echnology commercialization of Foreign Affairs (DFA). supporting those whose livelihood depends on algal polysaccharide used to give the air that it lowers blood pressure, glucose, Product development is still going on to (TechCom) is critical in adding value “After knowing what the market the country's primary sector such as agriculture freshener gel a clear appearance. It is R&D cholesterol, and inhibit cell-cell adhesion. improve its appearance, texture, flavor, and to agriculture, particularly in wants, we need to enable the industry which enables farmers and fisherfolk, Dr. Montaño said that there are extracted from certain types of seaweeds overall quality. T cooperatives, and agribusiness entrepreneurs to developing commodities and products, to generate new products necessary for using chemicals and equipment which result somepytochemicals unique to seaweeds. Development of farming Agriculture Secretary Arthur C. Yap asserted agricultural productivity.” Specifically, Yap compete in an extremely competitive and in increased production cost. These include the seaweed pigments or technologies forH. durvillei is still in at the opening program of the “2008 instructed BAR to forge ties with the Centers increasingly globalized agriculture market. Dr. Montaño addressed concerns carotenoidssuch as fucoxanthin , seaweed progress, thus, exact costing cannot be made Agriculture and Fisheries Technology of Excellence in the region that have the In conclusion, Yap encouraged those on the shelf life, environmental effect, and sterols,phlorotannins , fibers, seaweed anti- yet. Approximately, in making the sushi Commercialization Forum and Exhibit” and technical expertise and competence to in attendees to support the TechCom programs herbivore chemical defenses, and acidic market cost of air-freshener gels. sheet, a pack (6 x 6 inches, 10 pieces) would st conduct research in the field. of DA through BAR. (Rita T. dela Cruz) The seaweed-based air freshener “21 Anniversary Celebration of the Bureau polysaccharides (fucoidan , carrageeanan ). cost Php 11.00. of Agricultural Research (BAR)”. Fucoxanthin is a pharmacologically gel uses driedEucheuma sp. seaweeds as Other seaweed products include base.Eucheuma is a red seaweed cultivated The event was held at the SM active carotenoid commonly distributed in euginthol, fruit cubes, low calorie jelly, egg Megatrade Hall 2, SM Megamall in brown algae. It acts as an antioxidant and in the southern part of the Philippines and is coatings, decorating gel, instant gum paste, one of the top five exports of the country. Mandaluyong City on 21 August 2008. RBERNARDO inhibits GOTO cells ofneuroblastoma and low calorie mapple syrup, low cholesterol In his impromptu address Yap said: colon cancer cells. It has also been found that This type of seaweed contains carrageenan flan,Algro fertilizers, Halimuyak gel soap, and cellulosic materials. However, “Critical to the development of the rural fucoxanthin reduces the viability of prostate dishwashing soap,Halimuyak liquid soap, sector is TechCom wherein value-adding MNMONTAÑO instead of extracting the ginhaua ointment, suppository base, and carrageenan, the whole plays an important role, particularly in R-PE. providing income to farmers. By increasing seaweed is used, thus, R-PE is a fluorescent red pigment reducing the cost of the uses and values of our agricultural extracted from red seaweeds used in flow products, we are also targeting to improve production. The gel cytometry (a technique for counting celss produced using the incomes of our farmers. And this is the way suspended in fluid) and as coloring for food to boost the rural sector in terms of whole dried seaweed is and cosmetics. It has antioxidant property. not translucent in form. development and income.” What is being studied is whether or not R-PE He cited some of the pressing The gel strength has antibacterial and anticancer properties. remains the same as issues besetting the agriculture sector today. In conclusion, Dr. Montaño said Yap stressed that being the Secretary of that of the carrageenan- that seaweeds are important and significant based gel. Dr. Agriculture today, the two most important renewable resource of the country. He and valid questions to ask are: What did you Montaño used hard encouraged the participants at the seminar, paraffin and do to contribute to the growth of agriculture especially those interested in venturing into in the country? What did you do to improve diatomaceous earth seaweed business to initiate research and (decalite) to control the the income of the farmers? development activities that would facilitate “Today, the demand for the release of the essence funding and improve the seaweed industry. in the gel, resulting in a agriculture sector to deliver is high. It has the The participation of the added pressure to the government that the prolonged shelf life. government, private sector and the academe Sec. Arthur C. Yap inspects bottles of fruit wine developed by UPLB during his rounds to the various product Hard paraffin Department of Agriculture has to walk on a in the development of this so-called “ocean very tight rope promoting agriculture while displays at the techno forum and exhibit. Looking on are UPLB Vice Chancellor for Administration Roberto F. Products from seaweeds,Seamoy and scent extracts. does not evaporate in herb” is essential. Rañola (left), BAR Asst. Dir. Teodoro S. Solsoloy (second from left), and BAR Dir. Nicomedes P. Eleazar (right).

hronicle 10 BARChronicle August 2008 Issue August 2008 Issue BARC 3 NEWS NEWS

Market value of abalone in RDELACRUZ BAR conducts Collaborative Extension Service Central Visayas intensified Planning Workshop for Regions 4A, 4-B, & 5

nfamiliar to many of us is the Through the research study abalone (Haliotis asinina ), an implemented by BFAR 7, particularly egions 4A, 4B, and 5 conducted the endemic fishery species living in the Regional Fisheries Research and “DA- LGU-SUC Collaborative U MEHERNANDEZ marine waters. This simple yet important Development Center (RFRDC) in RExtension Service (CES) Planning shellfish commonly found in the coastal Calape, Bohol, the team of researchers Workshop” on 15 August 2008 at the Splash waters of Central Visayas is recognized for composed of Gamelba Dumadag, Mario Mountain Hotel, Los Baños, . This is its market value. Ruinata, and Rona Abrenica worked on the fourth of a series of activities on CES Owing to its abundance, the feeding management and stocking after the national consultative workshop held economic, and social importance to local density of the abalone. at Edsa Shangrila Hotel in May 2008. fishers, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic The research opened doors for The event was actively participated Resources (BFAR) in Region 7 through the the communities to be involved, in by members from the Regional Integrated mechanism of community participation especially on the hatchery and grow-out Agricultural Research Centers (RIARCs), started to study its growth behavior and characteristics of the shellfish. With the Regional Field Units (RFUs) of the extract most of its value. As such, research immediate response and feedback on the Department of Agriculture (DA), local has provided an expanded opportunity to lessons learned and experiences of the government units (LGUs), and state, define its production management system community, researchers were able to universities and colleges (SUCs). within a confined condition. establish and develop a more defined Regional Technical Director (RTD) of Region 4A Aida P. Cariño welcomed the Initially, the research on abalone production scheme that further Abalone (Haliotis asinina) DA-SUC CES status based from the previous Malabanan presented the updates on the GMA was funded by the Bureau of Agricultural encourages the people to venture. participants. She stressed the need to address regional consultations. Rice Program of the Department. He also Research (BAR) to determine its growing Based on this experience, the the problem on food security considering people's responsibility and accountability to be From the presentation, the DA- highlighted the FIELDS Program of the behavior, fine tune the production RFRDC developed and submitted strategies in working with SUCs on extension more proactive and innovative to meet the LGU-SUC goals and commitments government in promoting rice-self sufficiency management technology in a confined another project to BFAR central office activities. challenges and opportunities involved in encompass the following: 1) bringing science in the country. condition, and determine influencing and BAR for more community-based “This will hopefully help address abalone culture. Eventually, the gains derived and technology to the farmers and fisherfolk; In the afternoon, participants were factors needed for community involvement participatory research endeavor. This problems on extension delivery system at the from this action research and people's 2) mobilizing SUCs' power and technologies grouped based on their respective regions for in fishery interventions. Complete process time, it will highlight the importance of LGU level,” she said. involvement will support the fast-paced to the farmers through the LGUs; and 3) them to identify their FIELDS activities and documentation was done for the research the principles of action research and The opening remarks was given by development of fishery industry in the region strengthening and developing LGU capability interventions in support of the Rice Self- and to serve as basis for the expansion of community development. BAR Assistant Director Teodoro S. Solsoloy covering manpower and physical resources. Sufficiency Program, in which all provinces for global competitiveness (Marlowe U. community-based research in wider marine The project boosted the wherein he highlighted the respective roles of Dr. Jose Hernandez of the Institute are required to prepare their provincial plans Aquino, PhD). waters. capability of the community and the three agencies thus: “DA serves as the of Plant Breeding (IPB) presented the and programs and clarify roles and lead agency in giving national direction, Proposed RD&E Plan for Region 4A, 4B, and responsibilities of each institution within the funds, field commands; LGU provides the 5 titled, “Regionalizing the National regional framework. manpower, local supervision of targets and Agricultural Program for Food Security: Director Wilfredo B. Carada of the activities and mobilization of local Towards a Multi-Partnership RDE UPLB-College of Public Affairs gave the Northern Mindanao develops strategies institutions; SUC provides the technical Framework.” Dr, Hernandez presented this in synthesis for the whole day workshop. manpower, appropriate technologies, and behalf of University of the Philippines Los He emphasized the role of UPLB as applied research.” Baños (UPLB) Chancellor Luis Rey I. a national resource that will interface with “We can solve the rice crisis. We Velasco. other SUCs and LGUs in making things to improve fisheries technologies can provide the food requirement. We can “Strengthen and sustain a multi- happen through capacity-building create jobs in the countryside,” Dr. Emil Q. stakeholder partnership with DA-RFUs, interventions, trouble shooting, technical Javier, president of the National Academy of he Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic encourage a steady production of fishes for implemented by all key players and SUCs, Provincial and Municipal Local suppor,t, and policy advocacy support. processing. This will enable the region to be Science of Technology (NAST) asserted in Government Units (P/M LGUs), The groups agreed to refine a doable Resources (BFAR) in Northern stakeholders in the region from 2008 to his message. He further stressed the need for Mindanao has gradually and abundant in fishery and at the same time 2010. The plan aims to intensify the NGOs/POs/FOs, and relevant private sector- level of rice self-sufficiency plan for all LGUs T an overall coordination at the national level. business groups,” Dr. Hernandez said on the in the regions by 2010. Investments in the systematically developed a strategy to bring address the fish security and sustainability operation of fishery research, development, for its people and communities. Meanwhile, Technical Adviser overall objective of the project. FIELDS Programs at the cluster or provincial about its generated technologies to its and extension, and training activities and Santiago R. Obien presented the highlights of In addition, RFRDC continually Ginintuang Masagana Ani (GMA) level were also identified to sustain increases clientele and end-users. The strategy is the ensures abundance of fish production and the national consultative workshop and the improvement of production management provide technical assistance to ensure the increase income for people and their Rice Program Coordinator Frisco M. in rice production. (Ma. Eloisa E. Hernandez) system ontilapia, bangus, and other fishes desirable sizes for fish processing through communities. MEHERNANDEZ for better production and increase profit. improved and innovative production The identified operations and Gigi Arbor, manager of DA-BFAR- management systems such astilapia culture activities will use community-based 10 Regional Fisheries Research and andbangus culture. Such activities are participatory action research approach Development Center (RFRDC), said all their observed and implemented in Lala, Lanao including local governance, coastal resource efforts in research and development (R&D) del Norte, fortilapia fish fillet processing management, and people's participation and including extension and training, are geared andbangus in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental. empowerment (Marlowe U. Aquino, PhD ). toward local and international global These activities support the community- competitiveness. They need to provide an based initiative of an integrated RDELACRUZ avenue to encourage community participation fishery production in in the production of quality fishery products. mariculture parks in the region. The BFAR-10 regional office Through these established partnership with the local activities, the DA-BFAR-10, government of Balingasag, Misamis Oriental, together with the regional to construct a regional hatchery processing fishery council and private facility for multifishes that would help sector, developed a fishery distribute quality fingerlings to farmers and comprehensive plan that will be

hronicle 4 BARChronicle August 2008 Issue August 2008 Issue BARC 9 NEWS NEWS

MEHERNANDEZ order to pervasively push the industry's development,” Carpio stressed. New BFAR research center in Bicol inaugurated Attending as keynote speaker for the event was Senator Edgardo J. Angara. “We have the best of two possible ureau of Agricultural Research seaweed noodles and chips, shrimp extract RFRDC which was also funded by BAR, the worlds. We can produce food from coconut (BAR) Director Nicomedes P. with coconut oil, and canned tuna and semi-intensive milkfish production. Mr. and we can produce fuel out of coconut,” he BEleazar led the inauguration of the beans. Dennis V. Del Socorro is the current director enthused. Sen. Angara encouraged coconut rehabilitated administrative building of the On the sideline, Director Eleazar of BFAR Region V. (Miko Jazmine J. farmers to plant seedlings that can bear fruits Regional Fisheries Research and also visited the RDE project of BFAR V - Mojica)

in a span of four years and rehabilitate their Development Center (RFRDC) in Bicol at III NDELROSARIO areas in Aurora, Quezon. the SDFFN Compound, Cabid-an, Sorsogon The four-day exhibit presented City on 14 August 2008. seminars and technology demonstrations from The rehabilitation/improvement various partner-institutions and showcased project was funded by BAR under its product lines from coconut, virgin coconut Institutional Development Grant (IDG) in oil, herbal bath soaps, beauty care products, collaboration with the Bureau of Fisheries estrol biodisel, and results of R&D projects, and Aquatic Resources Regional Office V among other things. (BFAR Region 5) based in San Agustin, BAR, through its Management Pili, Camarines Sur. Information Systems Division (MISD) led by The IDG is handled by BAR's Assistant Head Julia A. Lapitan, facilitated the Infrastructure Development Unit (IDU) to th product exhibit. Showcased at the booth were manage the R&D Infrastructure PCA concludes 7 National Coconut Festival; BAR regular publications and books funded Development Program and strengthen the under the Scientific Publication Grant (SPG). capacities of national and regional SPG provides a smooth flow of agriculture and fisheries R&D centers. BAR participates in product exhibit information among stakeholders in the R&D RFRDC 5 Manager Aida S. System such as farmers, fisherfolk, Andayog invited Director Eleazar to grace he Philippine Coconut Authority message, he thanked all the Filipino farmers policymakers, administrators, and extension the inauguration of the renovated building. (PCA) concluded its 7th National who participated in the activity. He said that specialists. Some publications funded under During the event, a display of value-added Coconut Festival from 7 to 10 the theme, Kasaganaan at Kaunlaran sa SPG include Package of Technology of products derived from seaweeds and other T Different Vegetable Crops, The 7th ESAFS fishery resources were showcased. Some of August 2008 at the SM Mega Trade Hall 2, Pinagyamang Niyugan highlights the cooperative thrust of the government to boost International Conference, The Philippines these products which were developed BAR Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar (third from right) leads the inauguration of the rehabilitated building of the SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City with the RFRDC in Bicol. Joining him are RFRDC 5 Manager Aida S. Andayog (fourth from right) and RFRDC staff. Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) coconut production, increase the productivity Recommends for Broiler Production, The through the center's projects include participating as one of the exhibitors. This of coconut farms, raise farmers' income, Philippine Recommends for Agricultural Waste Processing and Management, and is in celebration of the 22nd National contribute to food security, spur the growth of Cacao industry...from page 1 Coconut Week. coconut-based products processing and trade, Training Manual on Analysis of Remotely Deputy Administrator Carlos and provide tremendous opportunities in Sensed Data and Implementing Geographic Carpio welcomed the participants in behalf wealth generation for all stakeholders. Information Systems in Agriculture and good quality planting materials accessible to representatives from DA's Regional Integrated government units (PLGUs), and CocoaPhil and of Administrator Oscar G. Garin. In his “The theme serves as our marching Natural Resources. (Ma. Eloisa E. Hernandez) them, as well as giving them assistance from Agricultural Research Centers (RIARCs) and its partner organization, Agricultural proper and effective crop management to Agricultural Experiment Stations (AES) Cooperative Development International, and postharvest techniques and ensure that present in the meeting gave brief status reports Volunteers in Overseas Cooperative Assistance Philippine cacao will meet the quality on the cacao production in their respective (ACDI/VOCA). standards required by the market. areas specifically in Southern Mindanao, According to Ramos,Criollo is the BAR IKM services and programs assessed Moreover, market linkage and MIMAROPA (Mi ndoro, Ma rinduque, most expensive and sought-after variety of applicable credit schemes are seen critical in Romblon, Pa lawan), Central Visayas, cacao due to its quality and rarity. The variety, n the era of cyber technology, with the Center for Local and Regional management supportive of R&D in establishing the industry where small Northern Mindanao, and Southern Tagalog. which can only be found in Ecuador and The information plays a vital role in the Governance-National College of Public agriculture and fisheries. farmers can benefit from. The biggest cacao-producing area in Philippines, is also known as “porcelana Idevelopment of communities. This role Administration and Governance and the UP The assessment started in August “We need to establish the the country is Southern Mindanao, particularly cacao” because of its seeds’ white color. has been considered by the Bureau of College of Mass Communication – Department and will end in November 2008. Partners Philippine National Standard for cacao and Davao, followed by (Ca vite, Criollo is not found throughout the country Agricultural Research (BAR) in of Communication Research. and clientele of BAR were identified by the complement it with continuous R&D Laguna, Ba tangas, R izal, Que zon ), since it is highly susceptible to pests and implementing its mandate in coordinating The IKM assessment is timely assessing body, including the preparation and support for the package of technology and particularly Quezon and . diseases. development of the evaluation instrument and managing the Department of because of the continuous innovative process varietal development. I'm glad that we had Recognizing the potential of the “I believe that if we could establish a of ensuring quality outputs and services of that ensures validity, reliability, and quality Agriculture-National Research and this meeting at DA-BAR. We can now industry's growth in the region, BAR is strong R&D program and develop our BAR. This boosts its corporate image as it of outputs. Results will be shared to improve Development System in Agriculture and design a comprehensive R&D program for funding an Integrated RD&E Program for standards, we could promote this variety and moves towards its 22nd year as a national R&D the programs and delivery of services of Fisheries (DA-NaRDSAF) through cacao,” stressed Ramos. Cacao from 2008 to 2012 to be implemented cash in from this definite competitive coordinating body of DA. The right kind, right BAR as responsive agency in R&D information and knowledge management Research managers and by the Southern Mindanao Integrated advantage,” added Ramos. (IKM). time, and appropriate means of information and management and in the development of Agricultural Research Center knowledge products and services are important communities through appropriate MMOJICA BAR Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar With the voluminous R&D (SMIARC). expressed the bureau's enthusiasm to support products derived from the different BAR- in making more effective and efficient information and knowledge management for Cooperating activities in R&D management to support agribusiness and sustainable development. the revival of the cacao industry in the country. funded research projects, BAR IKM agencies from different He said that he will seek the involvement of services and programs are evaluated in community initiatives on all levels of The assessment methodology sectors in the project include other concerned agencies from the different terms of product packaging and processing, development. consists of three components: communication the University of Southern research and development, capability stakeholders of the bureau to integrate all R&D delivery mechanism, content, acceptance, BAR's critical role in agricultural Mindanao (USM), development lies in making agriculture a building for staff, and enhancement of efforts for cacao. relevance, and dissemination and application Department of Environment business activity through information-sensitive information management systems. Expected “We could also look into the to intended users and clientele. The and Natural Resources and information-oriented resource outputs are intended for the improvement of opportunity of growing cacao organically as BAR IKM assessment is undertaken by the (DENR), Bureau of Plant University of the Philippines Public management. This role has been translated in the overall R&D information and knowledge this will appeal to the market better and look several programs and services which are management program of BAR and Industry (BPI), University of for ways to use the wastage from its postharvest Administration Research and Extension Southern Eastern Philippines Foundation, Inc. (UPPAF) in coordination anchored on information and knowledge NaRDSAF. (Marlowe U. Aquino, PhD). to maximize our gains from this crop,” said (USEP), provincial local Director Eleazar. (Miko Jazmine J. Mojica) Cacao meeting at BAR Conference Room

hronicle 8 BARChronicle August 2008 Issue August 2008 Issue BARC 5 NEWS NEWS

Outstanding BAR Non-TechnicalSupervisory: Despite the limited manpower of BAR's Budget Unit, Judith A. Maghanoy sees to it that quality service is delivered as expected. She has been working at the bureau for 20 years now starting as a clerk before finally getting her employees awarded stint as a budget officer. She maintains a good working relationship with the people he works with, as echoed by one of her staff members.

MA. ELOISA E. HERNANDEZ

88rom the 44 nominees, eight staff Senator Edgardo J. Angara and Asst. Dir. Solsoloy is the chair of RBERNARDO members of the Bureau of Agriculture Secretary Acthur C. Yap handed- the Search Committee with members from FAgricultural Research (BAR) were over the plaques to the winners. Assisting the Bureau's Technical Advisory Group, Non-Technical Non-Supervisory: given the 2008 Outstanding Employee them were BAR Director Nicomedes P. namely: Dr. Manuel F. Bonifacio, Dr. Gretel F. Rivera (right) has served three directors during her 14 years of Award. Awardees were announced during Eleazar and Assistant Director Teodoro S. Santiago R. Obien, and Ms. Josefina M. service at BAR as document control officer. As such, she ensures that the quality the opening program of the Agriculture Solsoloy, Lantican. management system and procedures at the bureau comply with the international and Fisheries Technology The awarding of outstanding Aside from the plaques, all standard. Concurrently, she serves as ISO Internal Quality Auditor. Winning the Commercialization Forum and Exhibit employees is given by the bureau every year awardees received cash prizes. Likewise, award for the first time is a huge achievement for her. “A rewarding and fulfilling and 21st BAR Anniversary Celebration on in recognition to employees who have grand winners for each category have the one,” she cheerfully revealed. 21 August 2008 at the SM Megatrade demonstrated exemplary performance and priority to attend trainings abroad. Also receiving a citation under this category isElvira S. Rapada (left), Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. dedication in their respective duties and This year's winners include: head of the Infrastructure Development of the Institutional Development Section responsibilities. (IDS) of PDD.

RDELACRUZ Division/Unit Head: Proving that his first time was not won out of mere luck, Planning Support Services: Unit HeadJoell H. Lales once again bagged this year's award for this category. The first recipient for the category went to Magdalena M. Concurrently, he works as senior executive assistant to the director of BAR. Calimutan of the Finance Unit. Initially working as a contractual employee, When asked how he is as a boss, one of his staff-members revealed how she previously received the Outstanding Project-based Staff Award during the professional and organized he is both in the kind of work that he does and the term of Dr. Eliseo R. Ponce. She worked as OIC for the Internal Control Unit way he delegates tasks. “He is good in motivating his staff to do better in their for almost a year before getting her current post consolidating the monthly respective work assignment,” they added. reporting of the Journal Entry Voucher (JEV). Dr. Marlowe U. Aquino, head of the Management Information From the same unit,Dorotea B. Caliza was recognized as the runner- Systems Division (MISD) andDr. Carmencita V. Kagaoan head of the Project up under this category. Development Division (PDD) are the runners-up.

MEHERNANDEZ RBERNARDO

Technical Project-Based: TechnicalSupervisory: Taking home the grand prize for this category isEngr. Ethyl G. Bulao , PDD Assistant HeadSalvacion M. Ritual (left, standing) was technical staff at the Project Evaluation Section (PES) of PDD. She has been with announced grand winner for this category. She is head of the Project Packaging BAR since 2003. She turned down a possible permanent position in another Section (PPS) of PDD which is tasked to prepare, evaluate, and package R&D institution but certainly finds no tinge of regret because of the fulfillment she is proposals for possible local and foreign funding. getting in her current job may it be in the professional aspect or simply being with Other awardees for this category areDigna L. Sandoval , coordinator for her friends and colleagues. Despite other additional workload at PDD, she crops at the Technology Commercialization Unit (TCU) andJulia A. Lapitan , confessed that she is happy and fulfilled to successfully accomplish them on time. assistant head of MISD and head of theApplied Communication Section (ACS). MISD writer,Ma. Eloisa E. Hernandez is this year's first-runner up followed by RCD coordinator,Apolonia A. Mendoza .

RDELACRUZ

RBERNARDO

TechnicalNon-Supervisory: “Put first things first” is an important attribute for an effective and Non-Technical Project-based: efficient staff according to BAR's head writer,Rita T. dela Cruz . She took home Previously working in a private institution,Gladys A. Gammad of this year's award for this category.Rayts , as she is fondly called by friends, first TCU has been serving at the bureau for a year now. Showing great dedication serve at the bureau as a contractual employee in 2000. Three years after, she got a to her work and believing in the adage, “always give your best shot” are permanent post at MISD and was assigned to manage the bureau's regular reflective on how she handles her tasks and how her colleagues perceive her. publications. According to her, winning the award is a self-fulfillment and it Merit awards went toJude Ray P. Laguna , executive assistant to the inspires her to always do her best. Thus, she is able to handle pressures both assistant director and technical support staff at the Agriculture and Fisheries at work and at home being a responsible and loving mother to her two kids. Policy Research Unit (AFPRU) andRicarte V. Castro , regional coordinator for CAR andARMM.

RBERNARDO RBERNARDO

hronicle 6 BARChronicle August 2008 Issue August 2008 Issue BARC 7