HOPE and SECURITY Through S&T

PCAARRD 20 ANNUAL 20 REPORT

Bringing HOPE AND SECURITY Through S&T

DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (DOST) PHILIPPINE COUNCIL FOR AGRICULTURE, AQUATIC AND NATURAL RESOURCES RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (PCAARRD) About DOST-PCAARRD

The Philippine Council for higher education institutions involved regional, and national organizations Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural in crops, livestock, forestry, fisheries, and funding institutions for joint R&D, Resources Research and Development soil and water, mineral resources, human resource development and (PCAARRD) is one of the sectoral and socio-economic research and training, technical assistance, and councils under the Department of development (R&D). In 1987, the exchange of scientists, information, Science and Technology (DOST). It Council was renamed the Philippine and technologies. The Council is was formed through the consolidation Council for Agriculture, Forestry implementing its program primarily of the Philippine Council for and Natural Resources Research through its regional consortia, which Agriculture, Forestry and Natural and Development but retained the are located all over the country. Resources Research and Development acronym PCARRD. On January 30 of It also supports the National (PCARRD) and the Philippine Council the same year, the Philippine Council Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural for Aquatic and Marine Research and for Aquatic and Marine Research and Resources Research and Development Development (PCAMRD) on June 22, Development (PCAMRD) was created Network (NAARRDN) composed of 2011 pursuant to Executive Order from the Fisheries Research Division national multi- and single-commodity No. 366. of PCARRD with functions focused on and regional R&D centers, cooperating Originally established in November aquatic and marine sectors. stations, and specialized agencies. 10, 1972 as the Philippine Council With expanded coverage, Being an ISO 9001:2015-certified for Agricultural Research (PCAR), it functions, and responsibilities, the agency for its quality management became the Philippine Council for Council formulates policies, plans, and system, PCAARRD is committed Agriculture and Resources Research programs for S&T-based R&D in the to achieving a sustained dynamic (PCARR) to include mines research different sectors under its concern. It leadership in science and technology in 1975. Affirming the role of science coordinates, evaluates, and monitors (S&T) innovation in the AANR sector and technology (S&T) in development, national R&D efforts in the agriculture, by providing strategic leadership PCARR changed its name to Philippine aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) in promoting S&T as a platform Council for Agriculture and Resources sector. It also allocates government for AANR products innovation and Research and Development (PCARRD) and external funds for R&D and environment resiliency. Guided by its in 1982. The Council was tasked to generates resources to support its core values of relevance, excellence, provide a unified and focused direction program. and cooperation, PCAARRD will remain for the country’s agricultural research. As the apex Council of the AANR steadfast in catalyzing the Philippine It then became an apex organization sector, PCAARRD is engaged in AANR sector toward self-sufficiency that supports and manages the active partnerships with international, and global competitiveness. national network of government and

MAILING ADDRESS PHILIPPINE COUNCIL FOR AGRICULTURE, AQUATIC AND NATURAL RESOURCES RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines 4030 TELEPHONE Los Baños - (63) (49) 554-9670 FAX Los Baños - (63) (49) 536-0016; 7922 TELEFAX Manila - (63) (2) 837-1651 E-MAIL [email protected] WEBSITE www.pcaarrd.dost.gov.ph

Citation:

Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD). 2021. 2020 PCAARRD annual report: Bringing hope and security through S&T. Los Baños, Laguna: DOST-PCAARRD. 105 p. MESSAGE FROM THE SECRETARY

The year 2020 witnessed the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development's (DOST- PCAARRD) strong commitment in providing science and technology (S&T)-based solutions in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sector. DOST-PCAARRD, through the years, has been a strong advocate in sustaining the productivity and competitiveness of the AANR sector in the midst of climate change, natural disasters, and environmental degradation. The Council has been relentless in addressing various persistent issues and for the year that passed it showed its persistence and dedication in the face of the pandemic.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has threatened and challenged all sectors of the country. Everyone was concerned about health, safety, source of livelihood, and most especially, food availability. Pressure was most felt not only in the health sector but also in the agriculture sector being the main producer of food for the Philippines.

As a response to the food and livelihood needs of the Filipinos, DOST-PCAARRD launched the "GALING-PCAARRD Kontra COVID-19 Program." It involves technology and information HON. FORTUNATO T. DE LA PEÑA sharing, food product distribution, and food production and Secretary livelihood opportunities derived from various R&D projects DOST funded and monitored by DOST-PCAARRD. It is supportive of Republic Act (RA) No. 11469 (Bayanihan to Heal as One Act) that was passed in March 2020 to address issues and concerns due to COVID-19.

This initiative was not only in compliance with the national call for reprioritized utilization of government resources, but also a clear manifestation of the generosity and compassion of the men and women of DOST-PCAARRD and its network partners to those affected by the pandemic.

The accomplishments described in this year's DOST-PCAARRD Annual Report are in support of various industry sectors, such as coconut, fruits, vegetables, root crops, sugarcane, poultry, livestock, dairy, aquaculture/fisheries, and forestry as well as biodiversity conservation, through the Council's Industry Strategic S&T Programs (ISPs).

The Department is proud of DOST-PCAARRD's performance towards attaining its vision of "sustained dynamic leadership in S&T innovation in the AANR sector." The succeeding years will still be challenging, but the country will recover and rise through continued dedication and commitment of everyone.

Congratulations DOST-PCAARRD for a productive year amidst the pandemic!

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | iii MESSAGE FROM THE UNDERSECRETARY FOR R&D

The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 disrupted many processes including the R&D mechanism. Several adjustments had to be made to comply with the protocols recommended by the national government to ensure the safety and health stability of all concerned.

Throughout such challenging times, especially during the "lockdown" period, DOST-PCAARRD did not falter in its commitment to uplift the AANR sector. The "GALING-PCAARRD Kontra COVID-19 Program" served as a venue for the Council to serve not only its primary customers but the ultimate beneficiaries of its R&D projects.

Faced with a difficult situation, the DOST-PCAARRD maximized the use of information and communications technology (ICT) in the performance of its mandates, meticulously packaging, reviewing, and evaluating R&D proposals to ensure that relevant programs and projects will be pursued in support of the eight DOST Outcomes and the Harmonized National Research and Development Agenda (HNRDA). Monitoring of projects under the DOST-PCAARRD ISPs has shown significant results, which are highlighted in this year's Annual Report of the Council. Through various virtual platforms, DOST-PCAARRD was able to establish ROWENA CRISTINA L. GUEVARA, PhD new partnerships with local and international organizations, Undersecretary for Research while strengthening existing ones. and Development DOST DOST-PCAARRD has again delivered more than what it has committed as the apex Council for the AANR sector. The DOST commends the Council’s unwavering commitment in enabling agricultural research and innovation to serve the Filipino farmers and fisherfolk.

Congratulations and more power!

iv | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report PREFACE

It is with great pride that I am presenting the 2020 DOST- PCAARRD Annual Report outlining the Council's initiaves to support our farmers and fisherfolk amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

The challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic did not break the Council’s momentum in helping find S&T-based solutions to problems besetting the AANR sector. Indeed, the pandemic has altered people’s lives; but in response, the Council also adapted its operations to continue serving and supporting its partners and customers while ensuring the safety of its people by consciously following prescribed safety protocols under the “new normal.”

In cooperation with our partners in the R&D community, as well as national and local government agencies, we have successfully launched relevant projects and activities under the "GALING-PCAARRD Kontra COVID-19 Program," simultaneously implementing equally productive and beneficial programs under the DOST-PCAARRD ISPs. All of our endeavors have contributed to the achievement of the Council's identified targets for the year and have addressed all 48 priority areas under the HNRDA 2017–2022 aligned with the DOST’s Eleven-Point Agenda. REYNALDO V. EBORA, PhD

Executive Director Highly motivated by the trust and confidence of the DOST on the DOST-PCAARRD Council’s capabilities to help uplift the living conditions of people highly dependent on the AANR sector, we have also challenged ourselves to continually improve the way we perform and fulfill our mandates.

The accomplishments of this year will not be possible without the hardworking and talented men and women of DOST- PCAARRD.

Allow me to express my gratitude to all the staff for their commitment, hard work, and dedication, which enabled us to deliver and even exceed our targets. Equally deserving of our sincere appreciation are our partners, the DOST-PCAARRD in the regions, for their unceasing support and cooperation to the Council. We assure our stakeholders that we will never stop generating AANR technologies/innovations and products for the Filipinos.

Congratulations for a job well done! Let us continue to give our best and work with a greater passion for a productive and sustainable AANR sector.

I hope that all the information in this report will provide better awareness on what DOST-PCAARRD is and what we are doing to bring hope and security through S&T.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | v Table of Contents

Message from the Secretary iii Message from the Undersecretary for R&D iv Preface v Executive Summary 1 DOST-PCAARRD Initiatives Against COVID-19: "GALING-PCAARRD Kontra COVID-19 Program" 5 Background 5 Components of the "GALING-PCAARRD Kontra COVID-19 Program" 5 'Teknolohiya-Kaalaman para sa Pamayanan' 5 'Lingkod Alalay sa Pamayanan' 7 'Pagkain at Kabuhayan sa Pamayanan' 8 DOST-PCAARRD in the Regions 9 Rebuilding the Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources in Response to COVID-19 (ReAARRC) 12 Gulayan sa Pamayanan 13 Smart Food Value Chain Program 13 DOST’s Eleven-Point Agenda 15 AGENDA 1: Pursue R&D to Address Pressing National Problems 16 DOST-PCAARRD-funded Research on Fall Armyworm (FAW) 16 Pangtawid Program for Coastal Communities in Palawan Affected by the Luzon Lockdown through 16 Seaweed Farming DA-PCA-DOST-PCAARRD Coconut Hybridization Program in CALABARZON 17 Cost-competitive Aquafeed from Lab-lab 18 Area-Wide Management (AWM) of Mango Fruit Fly Trial 18 Dry Reverse Transcription-Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (RT-LAMP) Test Kit with DIVA 18 Feature for Top Swine Viral Diseases Breeding Protocol for Penaeus vannamei 19 Cassava Starch-Potassium Sorbate Coating for Extended Shelf Life of Salted Duck Eggs 20 Development of Simple Cooling Facility for Overnight Storage of Fresh Milk 20 The First Calf Locally Produced by Fixed Embryo Transfer 21 Salted Duck Egg Powder Developed 21 AGENDA 2: Conduct R&D to Enhance Productivity and Improve Management of Resources 22 Aeroponics for Quality Plant Material Production of Purple Yam 22 Optimized Production and Use of Fertigroe® Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) 23 Nanofertilizers Nutrio® Biofertilizer for Improved Sugarcane Production 24 Automated Furrow (AutoFurrow) Irrigation System for Sugarcane Block Farms 24 Multilocation Trial of Promising Varieties of Cacao in Different Agro-climatic Zones in the 25 Philippines Utilizing Young-aged Falcata and Yemane for Veneer, Plywood and Construction Material 26 Quality Planting Materials of Indigenous Tree Species 26 Mussels, Sea Cucumbers, and Seaweeds as Biofilters in an Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture 27 (IMTA) System

vi | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Biodiversity S&T Initiatives 27 Biodiversity and Vulnerable Systems Research (BiVER) Program 27 Biodiversity Assessment for Sustainable Management in Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) 28 of Central Visayas Entomophagy and Entomotherapy Practices of Ethnolinguistic Groups in Sultan Kudarat and 28 South Cotabato Trophic Status and Aquatic Biodiversity Assessment for Sustainable Upland Freshwater 28 Ecosystems in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato DNA Barcoding of Reef Fishes in Northern Luzon and Southern Mindanao 29 Giant Clams 30 Field Surveys of Giant Clams 30 Giant Clam Genetic Resources 30 Population Genetic Structure and Adaptive Trait 30 Capability Building and Awareness-raising 30 Support to NICERs for Better Productivity and Resource Management 32 Tamarind R&D Center 32 Eastern Visayas Center for Crustacean Research and Development (EVCCRD) 32 Sea Cucumber Research and Development (R&D) Center 33 Center for Mollusk R&D 34 Seaweed R&D Center (SeaRDeC) in Tawi-Tawi to Support the Seaweed Industry in the 35 Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Policy Initiatives for a More Conducive S&T Policy Environment 35 Policy Advisory on Legislative Issues 35 National Land Use Act 35 Cacao and Coffee Industry Development Act 36 Digital Transformation Act 36 Policy Research and Advocacy 36 Review of Crop Biotechnology Policies 36 Valuing Bio-resources and Ecosystem Services in Bataan National Park (BNP) 37 Streamlining Financial Management Policies for Publicly-funded R&D 37 Integrated Approach to Impact Assessment: Simplified Guidelines for DOST 38 Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation (RBME) System 38 AGENDA 3: Engage in R&D to Generate and Apply New Knowledge and Technologies Across Sectors 39 Protein Hydrolysates from Marine Fisheries Species 39 Colloidal Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs) Immune Assay for the Rapid Detection of Bacterial 39 Pathogens in Freshwater Tilapia Aquaculture Mangrove Crab Crabifier Application 40 Eggplant Fruit and Shoot Borer (EFSB) Motion Tracking Software 41 Cellulosic Nanocrystals from Wood and Processing Wastes of Industrial Tree Plantation 41 Species (ITPS) AGENDA 4: Strengthen and Utilize Regional R&D Capabilities 42 DOST-PCAARRD in the Regions 42 Establishment of Niche Centers in the Region (NICER) 42

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | vii AGENDA 5: Maximize Utilization of R&D Results through Technology Transfer and Commercialization 43 Technology Transfer and Commercialization 43 DOST-PCAARRD Commercialization Programs: Delivering Results and Responding to the Call for 45 Relief Assistance Establishment and Institutionalization of the Agri-Aqua Business Hub 46 Services Offered 47 Testing the Effectiveness of the Strategies 47 AGENDA 6: Develop STI Human Resources and Build a Strong STI Culture 48 Graduate Research and Education Assistance Program 48 Thesis/Dissertation Assistance Program 49 Publication Incentives Program 49 Non-degree Training Program 49 Balik Scientist Program 50 Short Term 50 Long Term 50 Philippine Agribusiness Master Class 51 DOST-PCAARRD S&T Awards Program 51 Best R&D Paper Awards 51 Ulat SIPAG Awards 52 Dr. Elvira O. Tan Awards 52 Ugnay Award 52 External Awards Received 55 AGENDA 7: Upgrade STI Facilities and Capacities to Advance R&D Activities and Expand S&T 56 Services Facilities Development for the NAARRDN 56 AGENDA 9: Provide STI-based Solutions for Disaster Risks and Climate Change Adaptation and 57 Mitigation Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation 57 Enhancing Climate Change Resiliency of Farmers in CALABARZON 57 Smarter Approaches to Reinvigorate Agriculture as an Industry in the Philippines (SARAI) 58 SARAI Knowledge Portal: One-stop-shop for SARAI Services and Products 58 Adaptive Planting Calendar (APC) for Rainfed Rice and Corn 58 Agricultural Drought Monitoring and Forecasting System Using Remote Sensing Technology 59 Coffee Application Harvest Date Estimator (CAPHE): Harvest Date Estimator for Better Coffee 59 Quality Optimal Geographic Insurance Units (GIU) for Weather Index-based Crop Insurance (WIBI) in 59 the Philippines Water Advisory for Irrigation Scheduling System (WAISS) 60 Enhanced Operation and Connectivity of Automatic Weather Station (AWS) and Unmanned 60 Aerial Vehicles (UAV) Units for Crop-environment Monitoring and Forecasting Disaster Risk Reduction and Mitigation 62 Coastal Acidification 62 pH and Aragonite Maps 62

viii | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Changes in Planktons and Microbes Biomass 62 Effects on Benthic Communities (Including Biofilm, Microbes, Calcifying Macroalgae, Giant 63 Clams, Sponges, and Sea Cucumbers) Impacts on Demography 63 Iodine-129 as a Tool for Nuclear Activities Detection 64 Offshore Coral Reef Stabilization Technology 65 AGENDA 10: Strengthen Industry-Academe-Government and International STI Collaboration 66 Support to the Los Baños Science Community 66 International S&T Collaboration 66 New Partnership 67 Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) 67 Strengthened Existing Partnerships: Bilateral 68 Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) 68 International Potato Center (CIP) 68 Food and Fertilizer Technology Center for the Asian and Pacific Region (FFTC) 68 Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) 69 Manila Economic and Cultural Office-Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (MECO-TECO) 69 Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Rural Development 69 Administration (RDA), International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) Strengthened Existing Partnerships: Multilateral 69 Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) 69 Council for Partnerships on Rice Research in Asia (CORRA) 70 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) 70 East Asia Science and Innovation Area (e-ASIA) 70 Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) 70 Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), China 71 Asian Productivity Organization (APO) 71 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation-Policy Partnership for Science, Technology and Innovation 71 (APEC-PPSTI) Partnerships in the Works 71 Jiangxi Academy of Forestry (JAF) and Jiangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences (JxAAS)- 71 China Michigan State University (MSU) 72 Taiwan Agriculture Research Institute (TARI) 72 Capacity Building Activities 72 International Visitors Program 74 Other Activities 74 National Coconut Planting Day 74 AGENDA 11: Enhance Effectiveness of STI Governance 76 Human Resource Management 76 Personnel with Completed Graduate Studies 76 Personnel with Ongoing Graduate Studies (2020) 77

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | ix Non-degree Trainings Participated by DOST-PCAARRD Personnel 77 Staff Awards 78 Loyalty Award 78 PCAARRD Recognition Award 79 Special Creativity Award 80 Retirees 80 Exemplary Service Award (posthumous) 80 Employee Welfare 81 Financial Resources Management 81 Resources Generated 82 Continual Improvement 82 ISO Certification 82 Customer Satisfaction 82 Knowledge Management (KM) for AANR 83 Websites Developed for the New Normal 83 KM Virtual Workshop for the R&D Consortia and CMIs 83 Knowledge Management for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (KM4AANR) Portal 83 International KM Conference 84 Access to Internal IS 84 Support to Gender and Development (GAD) 84 Taal Volcano Relief Operations 85 Way Forward 86 List of Acronyms 87 List of Tables Table 1. Recommended amount of salt and ice for different volumes of milk and the cost to cool a 20 kilogram of milk Table 2. List of technologies commercialized in 2020 47 Table 3. International S&T-related activities participated by DOST-PCAARRD staff and NAARRDN 72 researchers, 2020 Table 4. DOST-PCAARRD staff who pursued graduate studies in 2020 77 Table 5. Non-degree trainings participated by DOST-PCAARRD Personnel 77 Appendices DOST-PCAARRD Governing Council, CY 2020 97 DOST-PCAARRD Directors’ Council, CY 2020 100 RRDCC Chairpersons and Consortium Directors, CY 2020 102 Production Team 106 The PCAARRD Logo 107

x | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Executive Summary

PCAARRD had addressed all of 61 projects and 12 activities 300 kg papaya; and 167 packs of 48 priorities indicated in the and initiatives had been approved 'kangkong' and 'sitao.' On the other Harmonized National Research and and being implemented with an hand, non-food products distributed Development Agenda (HNRDA) for estimated total investment of included 3,275 pieces of alcohol, the agriculture, aquatic, and natural P160 million (M) in collaboration disinfectants, sanitizers, soaps, resources (AANR) sector. A total with over 57 partner institutions. face shields, and face masks; of 501 projects were funded during As of December 2020, there were 2,760 transportation permits; the year with financial support from 29 ongoing projects across the 810 kg of vegetable seeds and the DOST and PCAARRD Grants- Philippines divided into 16 projects seedlings; and 230 liters (L) of in-Aid (GIA) Program. There were under crops, 5 under aquatic, organic inputs. 761 projects monitored during 2 under livestock, 1 under forestry, the year, which include newly and 5 under cross-cutting. The program also offered livelihood supported and COVID-related projects, such as 'Gulayan sa projects, ongoing projects approved The Council disseminated IEC Pamayanan,' 'Tilapia para sa for renewal, projects approved for materials through different Pamayanan,' and 'Manok at extension, and completed projects, platforms. In April 2020, it Itlog para sa Pamayanan.' Other which have not yet submitted launched the eLibrary and components include projects terminal and financial reports had total downloads of on 'lapnis'-framed face shields, as of the end of 2020. Despite 7,597 AANR publications and bamboo soap products, bamboo- the coronavirus disease 2019 3,618 clients/patrons for the year. abaca hands-free disinfectant (COVID-19) pandemic, monitoring The DOST-PCAARRD Facebook dispenser, and foot bath prototypes; activities were continuously (FB) page was followed by 74,554 promoting Darag native chicken done in 698 different programs/ and liked by 68,355 FB users. Other as livelihood option; field testing projects of partner agencies videos were also made available of laboratory-reared seaweeds through virtual meetings and other via the Council’s Youtube channel cultivars; production of smoked forms of communication. During which now features 110 videos and 'tilapia' and 'tilanggit;' and the year, a total of 165 local and 752 subscribers including videos on development of Giant Swamp Taro international partner agencies were ItikPINAS (IP), Tilapia Production chipping machine, geographic established and/or maintained. Technologies, and Enriched Potting information system (GIS)-based From the 102 completed Preparation (EPP) Technology for system, and coconut ethyl alcohol. R&D projects, 97 were reported Urban Gardening. It included offshoot projects of the by the implementers/researchers previously mentioned Gulayan sa to have either been presented in Relief assistance activities were Pamayanan on urban agriculture various symposia, filed Intellectual launched to immediately extend technologies, such as EPP and Property (IP) protection, and/or assistance to 13,599 households, Simple Nutrient Addition Program published information, education, 7,843 frontliners, 800 farmers and (SNAP) Hydroponics in the and communication (IEC) materials fisherfolk, 707 students, and National Capital Region (NCR) and during the year. 46 groups and organizations Regions 3 and 4A through the affected by the community collaboration among DOST- GALING-PCAARRD quarantine. The food PCAARRD, Caritas, and DOST products distributed included regional offices. Projects on the Good Agri-Aqua Livelihood 3,500 kilograms (kg) of rice; enhancement of the food value Initiatives towards National Goals 2,546 bags of mushroom; chain for selected commodities (GALING) PCAARRD is the Council’s 6,220 bottles of 'calamansi' juice; in identified regions were also quick response to the government- 1,107 food passes; 346 pieces included. led efforts against the COVID-19 of tea, turmeric, and coffee pandemic. For the program, a total products; 200 bottled seafood;

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 1 DOST ELEVEN-POINT AGENDA developed and produced for Industrial Tree Plantation Species freshwater tilapia. A mangrove (ITPS); Mussels, Sea Cucumbers, Agenda 1: Pursue R&D to Address crab crabifier application was also and Seaweeds as Biofilters in Pressing National Problems. developed. Crabifier is a free and an Integrated Multi-Trophic The Council supported research accurate Android-based mobile Aquaculture (IMTA) Systems; and on managing fall armyworm. application that can identify the Biodiversity S&T Initiatives. To augment seaweed farmers’ species of juvenile crablets of the livelihood, laboratory-reared genus Scylla. Furthermore, the Council provided cultivars were propagated in support to Niche Centers in established seaweed nurseries Furthermore, a technology on the Regions (NICER) for better of Palawan and were dispersed extending the shelf life of salted productivity and resource to target beneficiaries. The duck eggs was also studied. The management. Council also supported research process extends the shelf life of the geared towards guaranteeing eggs stored at ambient temperature In terms of policy initiatives for the production and ensuring the from 5 to 12 weeks. In fresh milk a more conducive S&T policy sustainability of quality hybrids for storage, the traditional method environment, the Council provided the production of selected high- using salt and ice was optimized significant inputs to bills on the value products of coconut. in the absence of cooling facilities National Land Use Act, Cacao and at the farm. The processing of Coffee Industry Development Acts, For cost-competitive aquafeed salted duck eggs into powder was Agriculture Information System Act, from 'lab-lab,' an automated completed, unlocking a new flavor and Single-use Plastic Products machine vision-based capable and another product innovation for Regulation Act. of harvesting the algal mat (lab- the market. lab) was developed. For the Agenda 3: Engage in R&D Philippine component of the Agenda 2: Conduct R&D to to Generate and Apply New project, “Development of Area Enhance Productivity and Improve Knowledge and Technologies Wide Management Approaches for Management of Resources. Across Sectors. The Council Fruit Flies in Mango for Indonesia, To improve management of supported a study on producing Philippines, Australia, and the resources, the following initiatives hydrolysates from marine fisheries Asia-Pacific Region,” research on were conducted: Eggplant Fruit species. identifying the most suitable and and Shoot Borer (EFSB) Motion affordable male annihilation block Tracking Software; Aeroponics for Agenda 4: Strengthen and Utilize is being undertaken. Quality Plant Material Production of Regional R&D Capabilities. Purple Yam; Optimized Production Despite the threat of the worldwide The dry Reverse Transcription-Loop and Use of Fertigroe N, P, and K pandemic experienced in 2020, the Mediated Isothermal Amplification Nanofertilizers; Nutrio® Biofertilizer Council together with its 15 regional (RT-LAMP) test kit was developed for Improved Production of consortia continue strengthening its to promptly and more conveniently Sugarcane; and Automated Furrow partnership in addressing regional detect classical swine fever Irrigation System for Sugarcane development and concerns and (CSF) or hog cholera and porcine Block Farms. creating a greater impact on the reproductive and respiratory advancement in the AANR sector. syndrome (PRRS) in swine. In terms of environment and The prestigious 'Ugnay' Award was natural resources management, also revived. Likewise, four NICER For the breeding protocol of the following initiatives were were established on biodiversity, Penaeus vannamei, three families undertaken: Multilocation Trial of native pig, halal goat, and seaweed. of P. vannamei (Kona, SIS, and 10 Promising Varieties of Cacao Philippine local) were obtained from in Different Agro-climatic Zones Agenda 5: Maximize Utilization of different commercial broodstock in the Philippines; Utilizing Young- R&D Results through Technology producers to establish the base aged Falcata and Yemane for Transfer and Commercialization. population with high genetic Veneer, Plywood, and Construction For technology transfer and diversity. Two deoxyribonucleic Material; Cellulosic Quality Planting commercialization, the Council acid (DNA)-based detection Materials of Indigenous Tree implemented a program to address kits for Aeromonas hydrophila Species; and Nanocrystals from and minimize the effects of disaster and Enterococcus faecalis were Wood and Processing Wastes of and calamities and initiated social

2 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report protection programs through Natural Resources Research and Water Advisory for Irrigation successful collaborations between Development Network (NAARRDN), Scheduling System (WAISS), researchers across different the DOST-PCAARRD Online and Enhanced Operation and research institutions to address Learning Management System Connectivity of Automatic Weather not only the needs of the poor (LMS) was developed. It also held Station (AWS) and Unmanned but to prioritize disadvantaged its S&T Awards Program composed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Units for communities and social groups of Best Research and Development Crop-Environment Monitoring and across the nation. (R&D) Paper Awards, Dr. Elvira O. Forecasting. Tan Awards, Ulat SIPAG Awards, In 2020, the Intellectual Property and Ugnay Award. Projects for disaster risk reduction and Technology Business and mitigation implemented were Management (IP-TBM) program Agenda 7: Upgrade STI Facilities Coastal Acidification, Iodine-129 welcomed the year by officiating and Capacities to Advance as a Tool for Nuclear Activities 25 new partnerships under “Support R&D Activities and Expand S&T Detection, and Offshore Coral Reef to the University's Strategies in Services. Five projects were Stabilization Technology. Technology Acceleration Initiatives supported for the facilities by Nurturing (SUSTAIN) the IP-TBM development in Isabela State Agenda 10: Strengthen Industry- Offices of the Consortia Member University (ISU), Visayas State Academe-Government and Agencies.” To date, seven Science University (VSU), University of International STI Collaboration. for the Convergence of Agriculture the Philippines Los Baños-Dairy In support of the Los Baños and Tourism (SciCAT) farms Training and Research Institute Science Community, the Council have been established, in which (UPLB-DTRI), Northwest Samar continued to provide technical 15 package of technologies State University (NwSSU), and support to and participated in the (POTs) are being implemented University of Southern Mindanao virtual celebration of the annual and six technologies were (USM). Syensaya: The Los Baños Science commercialized in 2020. Likewise, Festival. In terms of international Agri-Aqua Business Hub was Agenda 9: Provide STI-based S&T collaboration, the Council, established and institutionalized. Solutions for Disaster Risks through DOST, proposed areas for and Climate Change Adaptation cooperation with France, Germany, Agenda 6: Develop Science, and Mitigation. To address India, Indonesia, Iran, Italy, and the Technology, and Innovation (STI) climate change and mitigation, United Kingdom. Moreover, the Human Resources and Build a "Development of Decision Support Memorandum of Understanding Strong STI Culture. For 2020, the System for Enhancing Climate (MOU) with the Thailand-based Council generated P35.2 M from Change Resiliency of Smallholder Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) DOST to support human resources Upland Farmers in Selected was signed on September 28, 2020. development, particularly the Balik Communities of Cavite, Laguna, The Council also continued the Scientist Program (BSP) and the Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon implementation of projects and Graduate Research and Education (CALABARZON), Philippines” was activities with its bilateral partners: Assistantship for Technology implemented. Furthermore, Smarter Australian Centre for International (GREAT) Program. The Council Approaches to Reinvigorate Agricultural Research (ACIAR), likewise provided P36.2 M for the Agriculture as an Industry in International Potato Center (CIP), continuation of its capacity-building the Philippines (SARAI) was Food and Fertilizer Technology activities and programs—the GREAT implemented by employing the Center (FFTC); multilateral partners: Program, Thesis/Dissertation following technologies: SARAI Asia-Pacific Association of Assistance, Re-entry Grant for Knowledge Portal, Adaptive Agricultural Research Institutions Returning Scholars, Publication Planting Calendar for Rainfed Rice (APAARI), Asian Productivity Incentives, and Non-Degree Training and Corn, Agricultural Drought Organization (APO), Council for Programs to improve its reach and Monitoring and Forecasting System Partnership on Rice Research in ensure continued relevance in the Using Remote Sensing Technology, Asia (CORRA); and those under sector. Coffee Application Harvest Date DOST-led partnerships: Japan Estimator (CAPHE), Optimal Society for the Promotion of To continue providing enhancement Geographic Insurance Units (GIU) Science (JSPS), Manila Economic courses to the members of the for Weather Index-based Crop and Cultural Office-Taipei Economic National Agriculture, Aquatic and Insurance (WIBI) in the Philippines, and Cultural Office (MECO-TECO),

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 3 Ministry of Science and Technology 2020, and has been implemented Appropriation and P215 M for of the People’s Republic of China during the year. Fifty staff members Continuing Appropriation. The (MOST-China), Association of received different rewards Department of Budget and Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), during the first virtual Rewards Management (DBM) allotted to this and e-ASIA. and Recognition Ceremony. amount an additional P10.785 M for Four employees were granted salary adjustments and authorized Agenda 11: Enhance Effectiveness the Exemplary Service Award employer’s share on retirement of STI Governance. In 2020, (posthumous), 1 received the insurance. DOST-PCAARRD employed a total Special Creativity Award, 26 were of 211 regular employees and given the Loyalty/Service Award, For 2020, DOST-PCAARRD 96 contractual staff. Five have 16 were rewarded the Outstanding generated about P502 M from completed their graduate studies Employees Award, and 3 were external sources, accounting both in while six have started pursuing bestowed the Management cash and in-kind. A total of P478 M their advanced degrees. Excellence Award. Furthermore, was generated from local sources five contractual staff were also while the remaining P23.89 M was The Program on Awards and awarded. from international sources. Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) Manual has been DOST-PCAARRD managed a total The Council also supported gender approved by the Civil Service of P1.349 billion (B) budget in and development and knowledge Commission (CSC) on March 12, 2020 with P1.134 B for Current management initiatives.

4 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report DOST-PCAARRD's Initiatives Against COVID-19: "GALING-PCAARRD Kontra COVID-19 Program"

Background the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, program are from the various R&D the Council launched the "GALING- initiatives supported by the Council. With the COVID-19 pandemic PCAARRD Kontra COVID-19 affecting much of the whole Program." The Council through Components of the "GALING- world in 2020, people had to this program opened up facilities, PCAARRD Kontra COVID-19 learn to adapt and continue life devised new strategies, and Program" amidst the health restrictions and ramped up its traditional and digital unique challenges of the time. promotion initiatives and efforts. The program originally started with DOST-PCAARRD facing the same three components and later on challenges had to adapt and ‘GALING’ or Good Agri-Aqua expanded into seven components: continue its work to contribute to Livelihood Initiatives towards addressing the fears, doubts, and National Goals, is derived from a 1. 'Teknolohiya-Kaalaman para sa insecurity prevailing among the Filipino term with multiple meaning Pamayanan.' This component public. The Council learned how to including “Healing” (from COVID-19) focuses on the dissemination reach out to people who are mostly and “Excellence,” which resonates of knowledge packaged in confined in their own homes while with DOST-PCAARRD’s tagline, different IEC formats and mobility is restricted. Excellence in AANR Innovations. shared through various When pronounced with a slow communication platforms. As a quick response to the accent, galing also means “from,” Through this, the Council government-led efforts against denoting that the technology, brought hope and security to the COVID-19 pandemic following product, and service offerings of the the homes of Filipinos.

Components of the GALING-PCAARRD Program.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 5 Reaching the Public through Virtual Press Conferences and Webinars

The Council has also conducted four virtual press conferences using Zoom and Streamyard. The virtual press conferences were participated by 1,200 people and generated a total of 73 published articles from 34 media outlets and 13 broadcast coverages from 8 radio/teleradyo programs.

Teknolohiya-Kaalaman para sa Pamayanan. Each virtual press conference included an interactive open forum, wherein questions from Knowledge Sharing products were laymanized to the FB Live participants, media through Social Media provide information for the or non-media, were entertained. public’s consumption. The conduct of the virtual event At the start of the enhanced engaged media personalities community quarantine (ECQ) Since April 2020, the Council and the general public. in March 2020, social media has been producing publication

engagement, most especially materials for FB on how to Valuing DOST-PCAARRD’s on FB, was high. Through these produce food and inspire future Public and Media Relations engagements, it was evident entrepreneurs with livelihood

that interests in agriculture and ideas. Moreover, virtual press Even with restrictions in fishery as an immediate source conferences were held and mobility, the Council produced of food during the quarantine streamed via FB Live that and disseminated 143 articles were increasing. engaged both the media and in 2020. The Council’s media the general public. This initiative relations activities yielded a The Council tapped on increased the Council's FB total of P31,726,294.83 media this opportunity to create likes by 35,897 likes, recording value or the amount that the awareness about the outputs a total of 68,455 likes and Council would have spent in of the agency’s R&D initiatives reached 6,433,476 people as of advertising had it not practice in the agriculture and aquatic December 2020. public and media relations. sectors. Available knowledge

Engaging the Public through Virtual Exhibits

With restrictions in mass gathering, the Council developed an online exhibit platform for the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) Celebration in 2020. Through the online exhibit, IEC materials featuring technologies, programs, and services in the AANR were made available and accessible to clients and stakeholders. Quick how-to's and videos available via DOST-PCAARRD's social media accounts.

6 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report In 2020, the Council featured during the pandemic. 2. 'Lingkod Alalay sa Pamayanan.' a total of 65 AANR products Since its launching in April This component focuses and technologies from the 2020, the DOST-PCAARRD on the distribution of food marine, inland, aquatic, eLibrary now has a total of and non-food products crops, livestock, forestry, and 3,618 registered patrons who (e.g., disinfectants, alcohol, agricultural resources, as well have accessed and downloaded personal protective equipment as programs and services a total of 7,597 publications [PPEs]) and provision of on socio-economic research, as of December 2020. support services to affected human resource development, Downloaded publications communities and frontliners. technology transfer and were on: agriculture, vegetable This is in response to the extension, and e-commerce and production, tilapia culture, call to immediately extend knowledge management. various commodities and assistance to families and technologies featured in the individuals affected by the Of the 65 AANR technologies, Philippines Recommends community quarantine. A total programs, and services, series, urban gardening, and of 11 institutions facilitated six were featured in the DOST- vegetable planting calendar, the sourcing and distribution sponsored virtual exhibits on among others. of food and non-food products smart agriculture and rural through the 12 activities and livelihood technologies. A total To complete the deployment of initiatives of the Council’s of 59 briefers were produced the DOST-PCAARRD eLibrary's ongoing technology transfer and can be downloaded through Science Library Integrated projects. the DOST-PCAARRD virtual Management System (SLIMS) exhibit platform. Likewise, to the 15 regional consortia, The established projects of eLibrary links and 48 explainer the Council virtually deployed the Council's partner agencies videos, were produced and the system in the remaining served as strategic locations made available to complement nine consortia. Such a strategy for the government to help the IEC materials. The was devised to respond to vulnerable communities, virtual exhibits also featured the restrictions imposed due frontliners, daily wage interactive games and live chat to the pandemic. The SLIMS workers, and community to encourage interaction with deployment is in line with workers. Relief assistance the visitors. the project, “Establishing the activities were conducted DOST-PCAARRD Knowledge among various regions in the For the duration of the NSTW Network of eLibraries,” a project country through the following celebration, the virtual exhibit being implemented by the agencies: Department of recorded 2,187 online visitors DOST-Science and Technology Agriculture-Bureau of Plant who visited 5,540 pages with an Information Institute (STII). Industry (DA-BPI), Benguet average viewing time of State University (BSU), Central 20 minutes. Promoting R&D Results Luzon State University (CLSU), through Printed IEC Materials Sultan Kudarat State University Continuous Access to (SKSU), Capiz State University Technologies and Information Even with problems on mobility (CapSU), Central Mindanao through DOST-PCAARRD during the ECQ, DOST-PCAARRD University (CMU), Laguna eLibrary published 40 books, leaflets, State Polytechnic University and brochures on technologies (LSPU), Pampanga State Amidst the ECQ, when people and information in the AANR Agricultural University (PSAU), were confined in their homes, sector producing a total of DOST-Region 10, Cavite State the Council launched the DOST- 78,700 copies. During the year, University (CvSU), and Mariano PCAARRD eLibrary to bring the Council also disseminated Marcos State University technologies and information a total of 24,492 printed copies (MMSU). within reach of people. The aim to about 19,348 clients, mostly was to help people cope with included in its regular mailing Aside from the food their fears and insecurities and list. and non-food products, to cultivate the growing interest 27,814 copies of IEC materials in agriculture among the people such as production guides on

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 7 growing various vegetables, home and community gardening, SNAP hydroponics, preparation of organic fertilizer, etc. were distributed.

3. 'Pagkain at Kabuhayan sa Pamayanan.' This component supports food production and livelihood projects. Initially, there were three projects under this component—the Gulayan sa Pamayanan, Manok at Itlog para sa Pamayanan, and Tilapia para sa Pamayanan. Now, there are 18 livelihood projects under the program, with 8 projects already funded including Food-related assistance distributed to beneficiaries. 6 ongoing and 2 new projects.

Gulayan sa Pamayanan

DOST-PCAARRD supported the Gulayan sa Pamayanan project implemented by DOST- National Capital Region (NCR). The project provided S&T- based livelihood and increased vegetable production in metropolitan areas as a means to address food availability during the pandemic. Urban gardens were established in Las Piñas, Paranaque, Valenzuela, Marikina, and Manila. Non-food related assistance distributed to beneficiaries. Six trainings on EPP and seven on SNAP were conducted benefitting around 300 households. These households established communal gardens using the project-distributed EPP kits and SNAP hydroponics. The kits enabled them to produce vegetables, such as lettuce, 'kangkong,' eggplant, pepper, tomatoes, kale, 'saluyot,' onion spring, herbs, and spices. As of December 2020, the project has added Beneficiaries of the 10 technology transfer projects/programs. 12 community-beneficiaries in Navotas, Muntinlupa, Marikina, Paranaque, Pateros, and Pasay. These communities were

8 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report provided with SNAP kits, which quality IP ducklings and eggs in technical support to the farmer helped them start their own the market. cooperators were also provided. hydroponics farm setup. A total of 26,940 eggs valued The farmer-cooperators from DOST-PCAARRD extensively at P5.30–6.10 per piece Laguna and Batangas provinces disseminated information generated from farmers harvested their stocks in about the Gulayan sa and institutional flocks in December 2020. The Council Pamayanan through virtual different regions in the country distributed stocks of five presser of the project launch were distributed through pieces fingerlings per square and radio interviews. Similarly, the program. Benevolent meter among the farms in DOST-NCR organized farmers sold their produce at Batangas from June to July four training-seminar P1.25–1.50 lower than the and September. These were webinars participated in by prevailing market price. Others monitored periodically until 671 individuals. Technology gave their eggs for free as harvested. The stocks in the information disseminated support and appreciation to the three ponds at LSPU were includes topics on seed frontliners. harvested earlier in October propagation and production, to avoid damages from the vegetable pest and disease Tilapia para sa Pamayanan previous typhoons. management, and vegetable processing. The Council also initiated the 4. DOST-PCAARRD in the setting up of 20 small-scale Regions. The fourth component Manok at Itlog sa Pamayanan backyard tilapia fishponds comprised the Quick Response for marginalized families in Project (QRP) proposals from Manok at Itlog sa Pamayanan Laguna and Batangas. The different Consortia based on aims to provide affected project was designed to the assessed and identified communities with livelihood provide food in terms of fish ongoing and prospective options through raising duck, protein to poor households activities needed to address native chicken, and commercial and improve their capacities COVID-19 concerns and broilers and layers. The project to develop and implement impacts in the regions. gave farmers access to the livelihood activities during The regional consortia, as the new duck breed known as IP. the post-lockdown period. DOST-PCAARRD in the Regions, The farmers were provided with Fourteen farmer-cooperators is committed to addressing technical assistance to help with an area of 2,798 square the specific needs in their them venture into duck egg meters (m2) benefitted from respective areas. From the production and marketing to the project. Aqua-inputs, such time of implementation of commercialize the new breed of as fingerlings, feeds, and the ECQ in March 2020, the

One of the recipients of duck eggs distributed by Western Mindanao State EPP kits turn-over at Barangay (Brgy.) CAA, Las Piñas on July 10, 2020. University (WMSU).

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 9 they produced 80 L of organic herbal nutrient (OHN), 75 L of fermented plant juices, and 75 L of fermented fruit juices.

Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium (ILAARRDEC) in Region 1 (Ilocos Region)

The project titled, "Production and Distribution of Ready-to-Eat Hygienically Dried, Vacuum- fried, and Vacuum-packed Fish Products as Quick Response Mr. Aliña (third from the left), one of the farmer cooperators, with LSPU staff to COVID-19 Pandemic," aimed harvests the tilapia in his fishponds. to assist COVID-19 affected families in selected towns of La Union and Benguet through production and distribution of wholesome and safe ready- to-eat hygienically dried, vacuum-fried, and appropriately packed fish products as a quick response during emergencies. Four hundred packs of hygienically dried, vacuum-dried, and vacuum- packed fish products including milkfish, 'barbasan,' 'sapsap,' shrimps, anchovy, and 'dalag baybay' and 300 packs of value- added, ready-to-eat, dried and vacuum-dried fish products Tilapia harvesting at LSPU. were provided to 30 families in the upland municipalities in regional consortia have already A Bountiful Ifugao)," aimed Bagulin, La Union. conducted several activities, to increase food security and projects, and initiatives in sufficiency of households Also, three sets of fish samples response to the COVID-19 through vegetable and animal including 'dilis,' barbasan, pandemic. production. Agricultural and milkfish were submitted supplies and materials for microbiological analysis Cordillera Consortium for including seeds, agricultural to DOST-Region 1. Sensory Agriculture, Aquatic and materials, and livestock such evaluation of the vacuum- Resources Research and as duck and chicken were fried fish products was Development (CorCAARRD) distributed to 100 beneficiaries conducted with descriptive in Cordillera Administrative in 10 municipalities. The and acceptability tests by the Region (CAR) project conducted 14 capacity trained sensory panel. Three and skills training. As output, fish processors were willing to The project titled, "HAGABI be capacitated. (Harnessing Agriculture for

10 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report under DOST projects, such as complimentary food blend made from rice, mongo and sesame seeds, crunchies rice, mongo chips, and instant 'lugaw;' medical and hygiene supplies, such as alcohol shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, and mini bath soap; and regular food items and groceries, such as corned beef, meatloaf, powdered choco malt drink, powdered milk, and rice.

Visayas Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Program Twenty-six Quick Response PCAARRD in the Regions projects as of December (ViCARP) in Region 8 (Eastern 2020. Visayas)

Southern Tagalog Agriculture, hydroponics, organic fertilizer, The project harvested a total Aquatic and Resources and 'gabay sa produksiyon of 11,227.05 kg of assorted Research, Development ng letsugas,' 'kamatis,' vegetables and successfully and Extension Consortium 'ampalaya,' 'pakchoi,' 'talong,' distributed these to (STAARRDEC) in Region 4A celery, at 'dahon ng sibuyas' 5,938 beneficiaries, which (CALABARZON) were developed. A total of included VSU faculty and 2,500 copies of each staff and stranded students; The project titled, IEC material were residents of nearby barangays "Pagpapayabong ng mga reproduced. Training including Brgy. Pangasugan, Produktong Agrikultura: Sagot among the beneficiaries in Guadalupe, Patag, Gabas, and ng STAARRDEC Laban Sa Cavite was conducted on Marcos; 10 line agencies; and COVID-19," was implemented December 15–18, 2020, 3 state universities and colleges to empower communities in wherein five farmer-leaders (SUCs). producing their vegetables were trained. through urban gardening during SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, the post-lockdown in Luzon. Another project in the region Aquatic and Natural Resources Five inception meetings were titled, "Bangon Batangas: Research and Development conducted with cooperating S&T-based Assistance to Consortium (SOXAARRDEC) in agencies via Zoom. Three Taal Volcano’s Internally Region 12 (Soccsksargen) memorandum of agreements Displaced Population," was (MOAs) were signed including implemented. It aimed to Vegetable seedlings are MOAs with DOST-PCAARRD contribute to the concerted continuously being produced by and two partner cooperating efforts of the government and SOXAARRDEC for distribution agencies: CvSU and University other organizations to help to various barangays in North of Rizal System (URS). A total individuals/families displaced Cotabato including Brgy. Osias, of 150 beneficiaries were by the Taal Volcano eruption Kabacan, Brgy. Patadon, Brgy. identified with 30 beneficiaries and rehabilitate the affected Pacao, Alamada, among others. each from Alfonso, Cavite; areas through interagency A total of 1,295 vegetable Siniloan, Laguna; Lobo, collaborative efforts and S&T- seedlings were distributed. Batangas; Tanay, Rizal; and based recovery operations. Aside from vegetable Lucban, Quezon. A total of 3,000 families gardening, farmers in the area were given relief packages also perform vermicomposting. Ten IEC materials on consisting of proprietary foods In this regard, the Council, container gardening, SNAP for disaster relief developed with the assistance of the

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 11 agricultural technician of SOXAARRDEC, distributed supplies for vermicomposting facilities, such as worms, hollow blocks, and tarpaulin among project sites. The consortium also provided technical assistance, trainings, and seminar workshops.

Furthermore, the consortium distributed 300 heads of (Center wearing red t-shirt) Project leader Dr. Othello B. Capuno together with his IP to six farmers of Sultan project staff Dr. Moises Neil Sireño and Dr. Rosario Salas distributed the ready-to- Kudarat, each receiving plant assorted vegetable seedlings at the lower campus of VSU. 50 ducklings. The distribution was held at SKSU Campus in Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat. MOU was signed by the farmer- recipients, SOXAARRDEC, and SKSU.

Caraga Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (CCAARRD) in Region 13 (Caraga)

The project titled, "Strengthening Urban VSU's distribution of vegetables to beneficiaries in Ormoc City through the city's Agriculture: A Strategy for local government unit. Ensuring Food Availability Amidst the Threat of COVID-19 5. Rebuilding the Agriculture, aquaculture, and natural in the Caraga Region," is to Aquatic, and Natural resources sectors. promote production of tomato, Resources in Response to okra, eggplant, pechay, and COVID-19 (ReAARRC). The Nine projects were already lettuce. A total of fifth component is the R&D and approved for funding, which 9,344 vegetable seedlings innovation component of the include production of lapnis- were already produced and program. It intends to create a framed face shields, bamboo 10,000 vegetable seeds mechanism that will oversee soap products, bamboo- for distribution. To provide the coordination, monitoring, abaca hands-free disinfectant technical assistance, 210 IEC implementation, and reporting dispenser, and foot bath materials on production guide of all COVID-19 related projects prototypes; promotion of Darag for tomato, eggplant, and and initiatives across the native chicken as livelihood; 'pechay' were also distributed. 15 regions of the country. field testing of laboratory- The ReAARRC activities and reared seaweeds cultivars; In addition, PPEs such as projects will focus on non-food/ production of smoked tilapia facemasks, face shields, and non-crops initiatives, such as and tilanggit; and development disinfecting and cleaning the production of ethyl alcohol, of Giant Swamp Taro chipping materials such as alcohol, face mask textile, health and machine, GIS-based system for disinfectants, sanitizers, and wellness products, and so production and utilization, and soaps were produced and forth. These projects will also coconut ethyl alcohol. distributed through various give priority to the fisheries, regional consortia.

12 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report 6. Gulayan sa Pamayanan. aim to enhance the food value value-adding activities towards Originally part of Pagkain at chain for selected commodities food resiliency in the new Kabuhayan sa Pamayanan, in identified regions by normal; to increase production; the Gulayan sa Pamayanan implementing key approaches to improve the quality of was expanded and became to strengthen the network of selected commodities; and to a separate component. It stakeholders and processes ensure sustainable food value offers urban agriculture involved in the production and chain in respective regions. technologies, such as EPP and SNAP Hydroponics in NCR and Regions 3 and 4A through the collaboration among DOST- PCAARRD, Caritas International, and DOST regional offices.

Three projects were approved under this component with a total investment of P14.5 M. It is a collaborative partnership of DOST and Caritas International Bamboo, 'tawa-tawa,' and 'sapang' hand to provide sustainable Lapnis-framed face shield by DOST- soaps. Forest Products Research and livelihood opportunities. Development Institute (FPRDI). 7. Smart Food Value Chain Program. This component is an integration of the initiatives amongst DOST-PCAARRD, Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), Industrial Technology Gulayan sa Pamayanan. Development Institute (ITDI), Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), and DOST regional offices in partnership with the state universities and colleges (SUCs) to enhance food value chains through smart and innovative technologies. Smart Food Value Chain. Ten projects were approved under this component with a total investment of P28,297,907.07. These projects

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 13 Summary

The total budget allotted for GALING-PCAARRD Program.

Ongoing/Funded Projects of the GALING-PCAARRD Program.

Summary of the GALING-PCAARRD Program.

14 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report DOST’s Eleven-Point Agenda

Despite the challenges brought by disasters in 2020— 8. Expand STI assistance to communities and the from the Taal Volcano eruption, COVID-19 pandemic, production sector, particularly micro-, small-, and and onslaught of typhoons—the Council was able to medium-enterprises (MSMEs). address the issues concerning the AANR sector by 9. Provide STI-based solutions for disaster risks and employing the different strategies identified by the climate change adaptation and mitigation. DOST known as the Eleven-Point Agenda, in support to 10. Strengthen industry-academe-government and achieving the Department’s vision. international STI collaboration. 11. Enhance effectiveness of STI governance. The Eleven-Point Agenda includes the following: The only DOST agenda not applicable to DOST- 1. Pursue R&D to address pressing national PCAARRD is Agenda 8: Expand STI assistance to problems. communities and the production sector, particularly 2. Conduct R&D to enhance productivity and improve the MSMEs. The Council ensured that the management of resources. 10 strategies are feasible and applicable to all the ISPs 3. Engage in R&D to generate and apply new being implemented by its partners. knowledge and technologies across sectors. 4. Strengthen and utilize regional R&D capabilities. The following are the Council’s significant contributions 5. Maximize utilization of R&D results through and accomplishments under each agenda. These technology transfer and commercialization. became essential in bringing hope to the AANR sector, 6. Develop STI human resources and build a strong proving that no disaster can take away the resilience of STI culture. Filipinos in improving the quality of life through the help 7. Upgrade STI facilities and capacities to advance of S&T. R&D activities and expand S&T services.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 15 Agenda 1: Pursue R&D to Address Pressing National Problems

DOST-PCAARRD-funded Research insecticides with cyantraniliprole largely affected by the disruption in on Fall Armyworm (FAW) or pyridalyl as active ingredient, are the global market and supply chain efficient against FAW but further due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the incursion of FAW evaluation will still be done to During the entire ECQ, seaweed (Spodoptera frugiperda) in the validate their effectivity. On the farmers suffered economic Philippines, DOST-PCAARRD funded other hand, entomopathogens consequences as demand for raw six projects to supplement and (EPN) Beauveria bassiana and material decreased and prices complement the present efforts Metarhizium anisopliae showed fell. The lifting of ECQ in Palawan of various government agencies potential effects on FAW eggs on May 1, 2020 called for an in managing the said insect pest. and larval instars depending intervention to support seaweed FAW samples from eight different on the conidial concentration. farmers in coping with this regions in the Philippines were Eocanthecona furcellata and economic crisis. Assisting seaweed morphologically verified and thus species of ladybugs were also farmers would help meet their daily far 181 samples have already been initially studied as potential natural basic needs and also attain food subjected to polymerase chain enemies of FAW. security in the country despite the reaction (PCR) for continuous pandemic. verification. MaxEnt and Stella Pangtawid Program for Coastal modeling software predicts almost Communities in Palawan Affected The project utilized the laboratory- all parts of Luzon, Western and by the Luzon Lockdown through reared cultivars from the Central Visayas, and Northern Seaweed Farming completed DOST-funded project, Mindanao are at high-risk level of “Use of Branch and Spore Culture FAW infestation. In terms of FAW Seaweeds and their derivatives Technologies to Enhance Seaweed management, preliminary field trials (e.g., carrageenan) are export Production in Farms.” The cultivars showed that commercially available commodities and are therefore are being propagated in established

Fourth instar FAW larva feeding on the corn leaves in the field.

FAW distribution map generated using FAW larvae exposed to MaxEnt 3.14 software based on 453 global conidial concentration of occurrences (permanent populations) and entomopathogens Beauveria Damage assessment for FAW bio- selected environmental predictors. bassiana (top) and Metarhizium efficacy evaluation conducted last anisopliae (bottom). October 9, 2020 at Central Experiment Station, UPLB.

16 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report seaweed nurseries of Palawan vegetative growth. Moreover, the good agricultural practices, State University (PSU) in San research team also capacitated pest management, and farm Vicente, Quezon and Bataraza, extension workers and farmers maintenance. Palawan. Selected fast-growing with the hybridization technology, cultivars from these nurseries were dispersed to the target beneficiaries of the project to augment their livelihood and subsequently increase their income. The project established 3 hectares (ha) of sea-based seaweed nurseries using pre-selected, fast-growing cultivars in the municipalities of Narra, Dumaranan, and Bataraza, Palawan. At least 100 seaweed farm families benefited from the project and trained on community- based seaweed enterprise.

DA-PCA-DOST-PCAARRD Coconut Hybridization Program Establishment of farm module in Bataraza and Narra, Palawan. in CALABARZON

Geared towards guaranteeing the production and ensuring the sustainability of quality hybrids for the production of selected high-value products including coconut sugar, virgin coconut oil (VCO), and ‘buko,’ the project titled, “Performance Evaluation of the 2-Pronged Coconut Hybridization Scheme in CALABARZON,” is being implemented by the DA- The TACDxLAGT hybrids produced by the project thru assisted hybridization Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) scheme in D’Farm in Brgy. Caldong, Sampaloc, Quezon. in Region IV. The project is one of the front-runners in producing quality planting materials and improving coconut productivity from 45 nuts to 150 nuts/tree per year. The team was already able to produce and distribute approximately 3,000 hybrids of PCA 15–10 hybrid or the Tacunan Dwarf x Laguna Tall (TACDxLAGT) hybrids in Catanauan, Gumaca, General Luna, and Candelaria in Quezon, among many others. It The TACDxLAGT hybrids produced by the Distribution of the TACDxLAGT was observed that the produced project thru assisted hybridization scheme hybrid seedlings for planting in hybrid nuts are significantly robust, in Feria’s Farm in Brgy. Calong-colong, Gumaca and Candelaria, Quezon. have thicker girth, and have good Tagkawayan, Quezon.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 17 Cost-competitive Aquafeed from Lab-lab

Algal mat, commonly known as lab- lab has a huge potential as a natural aquafeed for the aquaculture industry. It can be an alternative feedstock for high-cost formulated commercial aquafeed and can be a source of organic nutrition for fish fingerlings. However, the rainy season and typhoon occurrences limit its availability when needed. This study developed the lab-lab biomass as a cost-competitive The project team headed by Dr. Alvin B. Culaba Automated lab-lab harvester feedstock for milkfish fingerlings. (second from left) and Engineering students from used in the field at Brgy. De La Salle University (DLSU) harvesting Lab-lab. Parong-Parong, Hagonoy, Bulacan. An automated machine vision- based capable of harvesting the algal mat was designed and fabricated. The automated machine can accurately identify and collect the lab-lab.

Drying characteristics of lab-lab were investigated. The convective method was recommended for drying lab-lab considering its advantages over microwave drying and solar drying in terms of drying Dr. Irene Kernot (right), Horticulture Dr. Celia DR. Medina (left), time and energy consumption. Program Manager of ACIAR, and entomologist from UPLB, shows Dried materials were transformed Dr. Celia Medina (left) examine mango to Dr. Stefano De Faveri (right), into powder form, which was used leaf sample. Project Leader from the Department in the feeding trials. of Agriculture and Fisheries of Queensland, Australia, the damage of insect pests on a mango fruit. A combination of 25% lab-lab and a 75% formulated diet generated the best fish growth for milkfish management is expected in the fruit flies. Meanwhile, integrating fingerlings. ACIAR-DOST-PCAARRD project AWM, disease control, and best titled, “Development of Area-Wide management practices into The cost competitiveness of lab- Management (AWM) Approaches commercial systems are also being lab will significantly reduce the for Fruit Flies in Mango for conducted. production cost of milkfish and help Indonesia, Philippines, Australia, farmers and milkfish producers and the Asia-Pacific Region.” For Dry Reverse Transcription-Loop increase their profitability. the Philippine component, small- Mediated Isothermal Amplification scale area-wide control treatments (RT-LAMP) Test Kit with DIVA Area-Wide Management (AWM) in Samal Island, Davao del Norte Feature for Top Swine Viral of Mango Fruit Fly Trial are being evaluated. Research Diseases on identifying the most suitable Reduced fruit fly infestation, and affordable male annihilation Classical swine fever (CSF) or hog improved yield and quality mango block is being undertaken. The cholera and porcine reproductive fruits, and increased volume of research team is also looking into and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) export quality fruits by applying the potential of hydrolyzed baker’s are the most economically an integrated approach in pest yeast as a practical protein bait for damaging, contagious viral

18 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report diseases of swine. These are the base population with high Two batches of F3 population of serious and often fatal diseases genetic diversity. selected crossbreed (Kona male and suspected cases need to be x SIS female) were produced and confirmed via laboratory testing. Population batches of Kona and around 1,000 juveniles per batch SIS lines of P. vannamei that are are being reared and will undergo In 2020, the dry RT-LAMP test kit adapted to the local condition the selection process for growth. was developed to promptly and were produced. The first step of Currently, this F3 population is more conveniently detect these the selection process has been reared in nursery tanks and will be diseases. It is a novel modification applied to both the Kona and SIS used to further breed to produce the of the original wet detection lines and their cross. F1 and F2 F4 generation. method because it eliminates generations were already obtained the use of dry ice or freezer and and reared to maturity. The Moreover, F3 generation can be brought anywhere and selected individual exhibited about of the reciprocal cross of used anytime without worries of 17–30% increase in growth Kona female x SIS male (all reagent degradation. It also has performance as compared with selected for growth) was also the DIVA benefit, which stands for normal unselected population. produced at around 1,500 juveniles “differentiate the infected from and currently reared and prepared the vaccinated animal,” making Four out of 30,000 local broodstock for maturation. The pure lines it a better diagnostic test than and 50 out of 45,000 juveniles selected for growth of F2 Kona Reverse Transcription Polymerase survived the white spot syndrome and SIS lines are now mature and Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), which virus (WSSV) infection in the natural currently being conditioned for cannot differentiate the infective pond conditions and showed breeding and mating to generate field strain from the live attenuated natural resistance against WSSV. the F3 selected pure lines. vaccine viruses incorporated in commercial vaccines. The RT-PCR indiscriminately amplifies both the vaccine virus and the infective field strain virus, hence giving a false positive result.

The test kit is a complete package that carries a built-in ribonucleic acid (RNA) extraction procedure with corresponding reagents and the RT-LAMP premixes with dye. After extracting the RNA from the sample, the RT-LAMP reaction can be completed in 30 minutes at The locally produced RT-LAMP test kit for CSF (left) and PRRS (right). (CLSU) 60oC. This reaction applies to both CSF and PRRS tests.

Breeding Protocol for Penaeus vannamei

The success of any selective breeding program relies on the genetic diversity of the founder lines so that the selection progress forward without the negative influence of inbreeding depression. Three families of P. vannamei (Kona, SIS, and Philippine local) were Selected P. vannamei broodstock. obtained from different commercial broodstock producers to establish

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 19 Cassava Starch-Potassium Sorbate chemical qualities of the milk the first 2 hours of storage, having a Coating for Extended Shelf Life during storage. significant drop in temperature from of Salted Duck Eggs 30–31°C to <10°C; for 14–16 hours, The process involved pouring the the temperature was maintained A technology for extending the milk to be cooled in a clean and at ≤100°C. The color and odor of shelf life of salted duck eggs was sanitized stainless milk can with a milk did not change and no off-odor developed. This involves soaking cover and placing it in an insulated was detected. The acidity did not the boiled salted eggs in a coating box surrounded by alternate layers change much and the pH before composed of cassava starch of cracked ice and rock salt. and after the 16-hour storage is (4–6%), glycerol (1–3%), potassium Table 1 shows the recommended within the standards of good quality sorbate (0.3–0.5%), and water amount of salt and ice for different milk. The technology was rolled out (90–95%) and drying in a 50±3oC volumes of milk as well as the cost to five dairy farmers in San Jose cabinet dryer for two hours. The to cool a kilogram of milk. City who adopted the technology for process extends the shelf life of the cooling milk from their afternoon eggs stored at ambient temperature For 16 hours, the quality of fresh milking. from 5 to 12 weeks. The buffalo milk was maintained, with approximate cost of this coating for 100 eggs is P5.65, at about 1.5 milliliters (ml) coating per egg.

This practical coating not only extends the shelf life of salted duck eggs but also prevents moisture loss and microbial contamination while improving sensory characteristics. The improved process was registered as a utility model at the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPO-Phil) The difference of the uncoated (A) versus The intense yellow color of the coated in 2020. the coated salted duck egg (B). (UPLB) salted duck egg yolk. (UPLB)

Development of Simple Cooling Table 1. Recommended amount of salt and ice for different volumes of milk and Facility for Overnight Storage the cost to cool a kilogram of milk. of Fresh Milk Amount of Milk Amount of Salt Amount of Ice Cost to Cool a (kg) (kg) (kg) Kilogram of Milk Maintaining milk quality in the (P) absence of refrigeration in villages is a problem affecting many dairy 10 0.50 5 2.88 buffalo farmers in the country. 15 0.75 7 2.71 Generally, milk is transported from 20 1.00 8 2.38 the farm to the milk collection center with minimal cooling or with no cooling at all. This allows microorganisms to grow and multiply quickly, eventually reaching levels unsafe for human consumption.

In the absence of cooling facilities at the farm, the traditional method of using salt and ice was optimized. In the absence of cooling facilities at the farm, this salt and ice mixture has The amount of ice vis-à-vis the shown to decrease milk temperature to <100°C for 16 hours, enough to ward off optimal amount of salt was studied bacterial growth overnight. (PCC) along with the sensory and physico-

20 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report The First Calf Locally Produced wherein embryos from a genetically duck egg powders can be produced by Fixed Embryo Transfer superior female donor cow are by cabinet drying or spray-drying, removed, fertilized in the laboratory, among other methods. The cabinet- PAG-ASA is the very first calf locally and transferred to the hormonally- drying method can be used for produced through Fixed Time synchronized surrogate or recipient small-scale production of salted Embryo Transfer (ET) Technology. cows. With the successful local duck egg powder, but will produce The embryo was transferred to production of PAG-ASA, more a darker color with a coarser a surrogate cow in July 2019 genetically superior calves can be texture. For medium- to large-scale and on April 24, 2020, PAG-ASA produced from genetically superior commercial production, spray- was delivered as a healthy calf cows drying is recommended, as it can at 33 kg while Nueva Ecija was produce a lighter color with finer on community quarantine. The Salted Duck Egg Powder Developed particles. This new technology will successful implantation and benefit both duck raisers and duck pregnancy have been confirmed by In 2020, the processing of salted egg processors as well as bakeries, an ultrasound as early as 45 days duck eggs into powder was cake and pastry producers, dessert after its transfer. completed, thus unlocking a manufacturers, and restaurant new flavor and another product operators. Embryo transfer is an important innovation for the market. Salted assisted reproduction technique,

The locally produced calf at PCC using fixed time ET The cabinet-dried salted duck egg powder (left) is darker than technology. (PCC) the spray-dried (right) powder. (UPLB)

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 21 Agenda 2: Conduct R&D to Enhance Productivity and Improve Management of Resources

Aeroponics for Quality Plant constraints, a study was conducted planting materials, such as tissue Material Production on the use of aeroponic cultivation culture-derived plants, slips, vine of Purple Yam or simply aeroponics, a hydroponic cuttings, and mini-tubers. Along system where roots are bare and with this setup, nutrient solutions Due to several constraints, such are sprayed with a nutrient solution were tested. The four purple yam as prevalent pest and disease to enhance the multiplication of varieties—'Kinampay,' 'Sampero,' problems and limited sources quality planting materials (QPM) of 'Mindoro,' and 'Zambal' were also of quality and disease-free plant four purple yam varieties. planted in the field for evaluation propagation materials in CAR and in different agro-ecological zones other regions, the production of Among the significant while another experiment was also purple yam or ‘ubi,’ which is one accomplishments of this research set to compare the growth and yield of the in-demand rootcrops in the is the fabrication and installment of ubi using the aeroponics system food processing industry, continues in BSU of one unit aeroponic over conventional cultivation. to decline. To address these system using different ubi

Tissue-cultured plants (left) as sources of planting materials that were acclimatized (center) and transplanted (right) to the aeroponics system. (BSU)

The experimental setup of the aeroponics system for purple yam. (BSU)

22 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Growing ubi plants using the aeroponics system (left) and conventional method (right) at four months after transplanting. (BSU)

Optimized Production and Use The product is for registration at the spin-off company in UPLB is being of Fertigroe® Nitrogen (N), DA-Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority established for the manufacturing Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) (FPA) once efficacy tests on various and marketing of the FertiGroe® N, Nanofertilizers crops have been completed. A P, and K nanofertilizers.

FertiGroe® N, P, and K nanofertilizers were formulated to improve efficiency of crops’ nutrient uptake and yield. The production process of these FertiGroe® nanofertilizers was optimized in terms of raw materials and other parameters. The particle size of the granulated nanofertilizers is between 70–100 nanometer (nm) and current data showed stability of the FertiGroe® N, P, and K nanofertilizers at 12 months after production at room temperature. FertiGroe® N, P, and K nanofertilizers. Application protocol to increase the yield of specific crops has been developed. Field validation of FertiGroe® N, P, and K nanofertilizers for rice, corn, sugarcane, banana, coffee, cacao, and vegetables has been conducted. Initial efficacy tests on the use of Fertigroe® nanofertilizers on these crops showed an increase in nutrient uptake of N, P, and K from 25% to 50%. The application of FertiGroe® nanofertilizers reduced the amount of inorganic fertilizer use in most annual crops by 50%–75% and 25%–50% for Actual production of FertiGroe® in Alltrade Marketing and Manufacturing (ATMM) perennial crops. in Baliwag, Bulacan.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 23 Nutrio® Biofertilizer for Improved Sugarcane Production

Nutrio® foliar spray biofertilizer was developed and pilot-tested in selected sugarcane farms in Regions III and VI. Nutrio® supplemented the N requirement of sugarcane and helped reduce the amount of use and cost of N chemical fertilizer input by 50%. A toxicological study on Enterobacter sacchari S18, the microbial component in Nutrio® biofertilizer, showed that the product is safe for use in sugarcane and other crops. Nutrio® mixed with water. In the first pilot test site in Concepcion, Tarlac, cane yield increased by 10% when one half of the rates recommended by DA- Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) was supplemented with Nutrio (1/2 SRARR + Nutrio®). In EB Magalona, Silay, Negros Occidental, a yield increase of 27.3% was obtained when sugarcane plants were applied with 1/2 SRARR + Nutrio®. Six demonstration trials were conducted in selected farms in Regions III and VI. Treatments, which made use of Nutrio® as a supplement to farmers’ practice of fertilization rate (FP) and DA- SRA’s recommended rate, showed a positive effect on plant growth Farmers spraying Nutrio® on sugarcane plants. parameters, cane yield, and sugar yield, compared with the FP alone. Production of Nutrio® foliar spray strategies, soil and crop sensors, biofertilizer is licensed to Fullmight and control systems was Comparative partial budget Agricultural Corporation. IPOPhil developed. AutoFurrow is a cost- analyses of the different fertilizer approved the inventor’s patent effective system that helps reduce application treatments showed a application declaring the invention labor in irrigating a hectare of positive change in net income due as novel, inventive, and industrially sugarcane field. It is more efficient to the use of Nutrio® in sugarcane applicable. The product generated compared with the conventional production. In pilot test areas, the sales and interest through the way of opening and closing application of 1/2 FP+Nutrio® project’s promotional activities. channels to irrigate the field. resulted in an additional profit per hectare ranging from P6,891 to Automated Furrow (AutoFurrow) AutoFurrow system supplies water P20,784. In the demonstration trials, Irrigation System for Sugarcane only when needed based on the the same application rate resulted Block Farms soil moisture in the specific plot. It in an additional profit per hectare automates furrow irrigation using ranging from P21,980 to P72,744. An AutoFurrow Irrigation System microcontrollers, which is electronic Also, the application of that integrates crop production circuitry that can be uploaded with 1/2 SRARR+Nutrio® gave an models, irrigation management computer programs to generate additional profit per ha of P21,980.

24 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report electrical signals used in controlling other mechanical peripherals. It also used solar panels to make the system independent from electrical power supplies even if in the middle of the farm.

In Brgy. Dampe, Floridablanca, Pampanga, sugarcane block farms irrigated by AutoFurrow system obtained an average yield of 178.13 ton-cane per ha (TC/ha), AutoFurrow Irrigation System. 352.55 bags/ha of sugar produced, and water productivity of 39.82 kg per cubic meter (m3). These results are higher compared with the farmer’s conventional practice with 112.50 TC/ha average yield, 165.95 bags/ha of sugar produced, and 17.10 kg/m3 of water productivity. AutoFurrow irrigation in sugarcane block farms increased yield by 58.34% and generated water savings of 47.50%. Installation of AutoFurrow system is recommended for SRA-initiated sugarcane block Seven out of the 10 different varieties of cacao identified and tested. farms for increased yield, better water productivity, reduced labor requirement, and increased irrigation efficiency.

Multilocation Trial of Promising Varieties of Cacao in Different Agro-climatic Zones

A program led by the USM is implemented to identify cacao varieties suited to do well in different agro-climatic zones. Adaptability trials on the performance of 10 different cacao varieties were conducted to identify the recommended high-yielding cacao varieties specific to various locations and environmental Demonstration of the grafting method for cacao seedlings. conditions of the country.

The research team has already Budwood gardens were established The identification of superior cacao grafted 10 varieties of cacao in the identified project sites. varieties in terms of yield, tolerance in the nursery, propagated Regular observation of pests and to pests and diseases, bean cacao seedlings in the field, and diseases infecting the early stage of characteristics, and availability to distributed cacao mother plants as cacao was also done. local growers ensures and sustains scion sources to different locations. increased productivity.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 25 Utilizing Young-aged Falcata and Yemane for Veneer, Plywood, and Construction Material

To determine the youngest age of falcata and yemane trees that can be harvested, the project “Anatomical, Physical, Mechanical and Veneering Properties of Falcata (Falcataria moluccana (Miq.) Barneby & JW Grimes.) and Yemane (Gmelina arborea Roxb.),” was initiated. The materials were collected from Agusan del Sur, Butuan City, and Agusan del Norte following the standard procedures in sampling and properties testing. Lumber quality or grade yield per log per species was evaluated based on the National Hardwood Five-year-old falcata (top) and seven-year-old falcata (bottom). Lumber Association (NHLA) standards.

It was found out that the lumber recovery and grades improved from 4 to 8 years old. Based on the cost analysis it is viable to harvest falcata trees with a diameter of 16 centimeters (cm) and above, Sample wood wastes from falcata and gmelina. which is attained even by 4-year-old trees. On the other hand, yemane trees require a diameter of 16.29 cm and above, which belongs under 6- and 8-year-old trees, to be viable for harvest.

Instead of waiting for 8–12 years, it is feasible to cut falcata and yemane trees at 4–6 years old as far as mechanical properties are concerned. This may help widen the raw material base of the local wood-based industries. For. Kathreena Gutierrez (right) showing Dr. Marcelino Siladan (center) the SLSU’s hedge garden with Batikuling seedlings. Quality Planting Materials of Indigenous Tree Species interventions in producing quality able to develop a scientific way planting materials for Makaasim of producing high-quality and 'Makaasim' (Syzygium nitidum and Batikuling. This is to support needed volumes of Makaasim and Benth) and 'Batikuling' (Litsea the needs of the wood-based Batikuling. The team also developed leytensis Merr.) are indigenous tree industry and the National Greening protocols for the vegetative species both threatened due to the Program (NGP) of the government. propagation of Makaasim and demand for wood pallets, furniture, With Southern Luzon State Batikuling, as well as cost analysis and wood carving. To solve University’s (SLSU) existing clonal for the quality planting material this, a project was implemented nursery, the project team was production of both tree species. to generate and promote S&T

26 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Mussels, Sea Cucumbers, and reduces economic risk using and seaweeds were generated. The and Seaweeds as Biofilters in the appropriate species. physicochemical factors affecting an Integrated Multi-Trophic fish cage organisms were already Aquaculture (IMTA) System Milkfish Chanos( chanos) is processed and analyzed. Further, cultured in the fish cage and utilize an initial stable isotope analysis of The Integrated Multi-Trophic commercial fish feeds as food. the 40% IMTA organism samples Aquaculture (IMTA) is a new The co-cultured IMTA organisms in Kyoto University, Japan has been image of a traditional polyculture monitored for their growth and conducted. technique where multi-trophic assimilation of excess feeds are refers to the explicit incorporation the filter-feeding bivalves including Biodiversity S&T Initiatives of species from different trophic ‘amahong’ (Modiolus philippinarum), positions or nutritional levels in ‘imbao’ (Anadontia sp.), ‘litob’ Biodiversity and Vulnerable the same system. Through IMTA, (Anadara sp.), ‘tipay’ (Pinctada Systems Research some of the food, nutrients, and margaritifera); the detritus feeder (BiVER) Program energy considered lost in finfish sea cucumber (Holothuria scabra); monoculture are recaptured and and two species of seaweeds The BiVER program was converted into crops of commercial (Eucheuma denticulatum and implemented to provide a value, while biomitigation takes Kappaphycus alvarezii). systematic and regular study place. In this way, all the cultivation of biodiversity and vulnerable components have economic value, Two experimental IMTA setups ecosystems in the Eastern Visayas as well as a role in the services and (with and without fish cages) were region. Vulnerable ecosystems are recycling processes of the nutrients already established. Data on the defined in this program as fresh and in the system. Moreover, IMTA growth of mussels, sea cucumbers, marine systems, which are fragile provides economic diversification

Filter feeding brown mussels (M. philippinarum) cultured in IMTA setup along with the culture of milkfish (C. chanos) in suspended cages. Mariculture Park.

Culture raft in Barangay Tamisan (without fish cage) used as Suspended cages of mussels, bivalves, and sea cucumbers. control setup.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 27 due to their high susceptibility to Protected Landscape (TPL), and of insects for consumption. Some anthropogenic activities and/or Mt. Mabinay were surveyed for of the documented insects that the functional significance of the richness in biodiversity. are consumed are those found in habitat. coconut wine, bees, grubs, locusts, Several endangered flora and fauna grasshopper, cricket, and others. Notable accomplishments of the were recorded from BTLP including program are the inventory of flora the endangered Nyctimene rabori Significant medicinal uses of and fauna (taxonomy and genetic), and the near threatened Pteropus insects were revealed during the data gathered on the environmental pumilus. A new species record interview. Bees were recorded quality of ecosystems, development of orchid (Corybas sp.), two new for the cure of fever and runny of computational models of species of Zingiber, and one new nose, dragonfly for body pain or economically important river species of Begonia were likewise mental disorder, honey bees for systems, and development of documented during their expedition measles and beri-beri, bumblebees a BiVER database system and in MTFR, and probably the longest for stomach ache, crickets for website containing research data, species of earthworm in the easy delivery of the baby, ants for serving as an accessible source of Philippines was found in RSPL. diarrhea and vomiting, beetles information for the public. and bugs for epilepsy, etc. In 13 caves surveyed in MTFR, Some folkloric beliefs were also Activities of the program were 5 bat species were recorded with documented. Only the Tedurays conducted in collaboration with 1 noted as endangered were documented to practice DOST-Philippine Science High (Rhinolophus arcuatus). On the Geophagy or the eating of soil School (PSHS) senior high school other hand, in 11 caves surveyed among the three groups. students and staff. They were also in Mt. Mabinay, 11 species of able to develop Project Freshwater bats were collected, 2 species Trophic Status and Aquatic Morphology Information Gathering of which were noted as near Biodiversity Assessment for System (FRIES), a technology threatened (Miniopterus schreibersii Sustainable Upland Freshwater designed to help predict the rise and Hipposideros lekaguli), and Ecosystems in Lake Sebu, South and fall of water levels in the 1 species was noted as endangered Cotabato Binahaan River, which will be very (R. arcuatus). useful during the onset of typhoons. Lake Sebu is a Municipality in South All information is stored on their Entomophagy and Entomotherapy Cotabato where three lakes are website, which will be maintained Practices of Ethnolinguistic Groups located. The recently concluded and continuously improved in Sultan Kudarat and South project aimed to determine the even after the completion of the Cotabato trophic status and bathymetry and research. assess the abundance distribution This research project aimed to and diversity of plankton, fishes, Biodiversity Assessment provide baseline data on the and macroinvertebrates of the three for Sustainable Management practices of entomophagy and upland lake ecosystems, namely: in Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) entomotherapy of selected Lake Sebu, Lake Lahit, and Lake of Central Visayas indigenous people in Mindanao, Seloton. particularly the Manobo Dulangan, This research program was Teduray, and Tboli ethnolinguistic On the hydrology of the lakes, implemented in support of the groups. the discharge rates of eight river biodiversity management and tributaries that flow into conservation efforts of the Niche Preliminary research findings of Lake Sebu were also recorded. R&D Center for Biodiversity based the research showed that all three Bakdulong river had the highest at Cebu Technological University ethnolinguistic groups (Manobo discharge rate of 0.3 cubic meter (CTU) in Argao, Cebu. A total of five Dulangan, Teduray, and T'boli) are per second (m3/s). KBAs namely: Balinsasayao Twin practicing both entomophagy and Lakes Natural Park (BTLP), Mount entomotherapy. The knowledge of A total of 723 species of insects (Mt.) Bandilaan Forest Reserve using insects for food and medicine are classified under 12 orders (MTFR), Raja Sikatuna Protected was transmitted by their elders. It and 62 families in which at least Landscape (RSPL), Talibon was noted that the tribes always one is a possible new species. conduct rituals before the collection

28 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Twelve species of aquatic plants, A total of 150 species of reef this number with over 304 unique 9 plankton genera, 12 species of fishes was collected in Northern species in the fish checklist. From fish (e.g.,Oreochromis sp., Clarias Luzon (Cagayan and Isabela) and the collected species, 200 genetic batrachus, Channa straita, etc.) 373 species of reef fishes in barcodes are currently generated were recorded and identified, and Southern Mindanao, particularly and this will be made available few sponges were also collected. in Davao and Sulu Archipelago. in a biodiversity database, which Four new species were discovered The island chain of Basilan, Sulu, are important inputs for the which may be under a new genus and Tawi-Tawi contributes most to management of fisheries. and the other two were already warranted as new species and were named Spongilla lahitensis sp. and Spongilla sebuensis sp.

The study recommended the eventual phase-out of fish cages in Lake Sebu and Lake Seloton, provision of sustainable sources of income to avert the quarrying operations in the area, creation of Research staff measuring the outflow discharge in Lake Sebu (left) and a possible a buffer zone around the lake, and new species of insect found in one of the lakes (right). re-establishment of forest cover.

DNA Barcoding of Reef Fishes in Northern Luzon and Southern Mindanao

The diversity of reef fishes and population connectivity of Scarus quoyi and Terapon jarbua in Northern Luzon and Southern Mindanao (as affected by North Equatorial Current and Mindanao Current, respectively) are being investigated to provide new information and a better understanding of the biodiversity profile and degree of connection of reef fishes in the said areas, Lake Seloton specimen #4 that probably belongs to a new genus (top left), Lake which are important inputs for Seloton specimen #6 that probably belongs to a new genus (top right), Spongilla management and conservation. lahitensis sp. (lower left) and Spongilla sebuensis sp. (lower right).

Display of reef fishes in the wet market Project personnel preparing the Project personnel extracting tissue of Sta. Ana, Cagayan. fish samples for photography and from fishes collected in Sta. Ana, morphometrics. Cagayan.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 29 Giant Clams

Field Surveys of Giant Clams

With the continuing efforts to bring back the giant clams (Tridacna gigas) from the brink of extinction, the giant clam program continues to survey giant clams and corals on reefs in different parts of the country. Survey results showed that both wild and restocked giant clams are naturally reproducing in some reefs (e.g., Bohol; Guiuan; Samar; Divers deploy equipment and collect water samples to obtain information on Camiguin; Island Garden City environmental parameters. of Samal; Hundred Islands and Bolinao, Pangasinan) where juveniles of the endangered T. gigas and in situ spawning in Samal Island, Mindanao was also observed. The program is thus optimistic that natural spawning can restore depleted giant clam population from overexploitation and natural threats. In addition, giant clam diversity was also highest in well-regulated marine protected areas.

Giant Clam Genetic Resources A diver conducting a phototransect survey for giant clams and corals on a reef. To complement these field survey results, the program made use also be used to understand how and West Philippine Seas. Also, the of cutting-edge technologies to well giant clams in the wild can Philippine team added temperature reveal the genes important for adapt and survive in an ocean stress experiments in collaboration the growth, development, survival, environment that is constantly with the local research institutions and resilience of giant clams. To affected by stressors brought about in Palawan, Polillo, and Batanes generate key genetic resources by human activities. to determine differences in giant from local giant clam stocks, ex clam response to temperature situ spawning and next-generation Population Genetic Structure using total messenger RNA (mRNA) sequencing were conducted. A and Adaptive Trait expression. To date, this is the first closer look at the giant clam genes giant clam population genetic study revealed the molecular pathways Many studied population structures in the country. involved in the growth and survival of invertebrates across sites in of a giant clam in culture and the country have been conducted Capability Building identified potential settlement but only a few have worked on and Awareness-raising and metamorphosis inducers, demonstrating the correlation which can later be harnessed to of genetic structure with an The program conducted public fora enhance existing giant clam culture adaptive trait. The Philippines in and training workshops with local techniques and to improve juvenile collaboration with Taiwan jointly government unit (LGU) partners survival. Beyond its aquaculture determines the connectivity of and other stakeholders at each applications, the genetic resources giant clam resources from sites in study site to impart information on generated by the program can the Luzon Strait, South China Sea, the value of giant clams and the

30 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Ex situ spawning of giant clams is conducted to study early RNA extracted from different giant clam stages is subjected giant clam development. to next-generation sequencing analysis. benefits of proper conservation and monitoring methods. Program teams presented survey data to the LGUs to inform them of their local giant clam stocks, which may help them formulate conservation plans.

Through capacity building and collaboration, the program raised awareness on the plight of giant clams nationwide. Personnel of Western Philippines University Retrieval of T. crocea for (WPU) in Palawan were trained Tissue collection from the mantle of a giant temperature experiments at the in the spawning, culture, and clam. field station. restocking of different giant clam species. Importantly, sites with promising prospects for giant clam conservation were identified. For example, sites with functioning hatcheries, such as Bohol, Davao, Guiuan, Samar, and Palawan may soon be able to start their own giant clam cultures. On the other hand, sites with diverse giant clam populations like Apo Reef and Calaguas may be able to develop sustainable giant clam tourism. In the Island of Samal, Davao del Norte, the famous “Taklobo tours” is already a steady source of income for their tourism industry. They, too, have helped raise awareness for the conservation of giant clams.

The continued conservation and recovery of giant clams will improve Processing of giant clam mantle tissues for DNA extraction and PCR the health of our coral reefs and amplification.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 31 will provide many socioeconomic production of sour and sweet On the other hand, Golden Sweet benefits. We hope that giant tamarind through S&T interventions. is a sweet type tamarind that has clams in the Philippines can safely The Center envisions a sustainable a shell thickness of 0.73 mm, pod continue to grow and thrive under tamarind industry by increasing weight of 16.69 g, 42.43% pulp, and the care of local communities, crop productivity and farmers’ three or more seeds per pod. government agencies, and various income. To date, among the other stakeholders and advocates. significant accomplishments of Eastern Visayas Center for Together, we can work towards the program include increasing the Crustacean Research and creating a sustainable future for area of sour tamarind plantation in Development (EVCCRD) giant clams in the Philippines. Central Luzon by 32 ha. Moreover, two tamarind lines, the PAC Sour 2 Crustaceans, particularly blue Support to NICERs for Better and Golden Sweet, which both have swimming crabs (BSC) are the Productivity and Resource outstanding pod characteristics and focus of the Center’s R&D efforts. Management potential for registration as new The program has classified varieties were identified. PAC Sour 2 eight fishing gears/methods in Tamarind R&D Center is a sour type tamarind and has the catching BSC in Maqueda Bay, following characteristics: thick pod Villareal Bay, Zumarraga Channel, The Tamarind R&D Center of shell (0.56 millimeters [mm]), a high Southeastern Samar Sea, and Leyte DOST's NICER Program, established percentage of pulp flesh (50.86%), Gulf fishing areas. From the eight at PSAU in Magalang, Pampanga pod weight of 15.34 grams (g), and fishing gears, crab entangling net aims to improve the quality and has three or more seeds per pod. was the predominant fishing gear

Laboratory analysis and training with local project partners at Information dissemination for high school teachers in the Aquatic Biodiversity and Biotechnology Research Center Brooke's Point Palawan. of the WPU.

Dr. Virgilio DM. Gonzales (2nd from left), Program Dr. Darwin E. Totaan, PSAU Immature sour tamarind pods. leader of the NICER Tamarind R&D Center, shows researcher, collects tamarind leaf to DOST-PCAARRD representatives the tamarind samples. seedlings in the PSAU nursery.

32 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report used by 1,222 municipal fishers, as well as the banning of filter Sea Cucumber Research and followed by crab liftnet, crab pot, net (dyakus) in rivers that catch Development (R&D) Center trammel net, sweeping entangling juvenile BSC and other immature net, fish corral, trawl, and crab hand crustaceans along Maqueda The Center is focused on assessing picking. Bay and its vicinities. Initial R&D the status of sea cucumber efforts of the center particularly fisheries in Mindanao, developing Results of the R&D showed low on resource assessment and the mariculture technology for catch per unit effort (CPUE) from development of culture technology Holothuria fuscogilva (teatfish) and the top three fishing gears used in are significantly important in the refining the culture production of catching BSC, which indicates a management of the BSC resources H. scabra (sandfish) that are declining population of BSC. The in Samar to sustain the fisheries important for management and annual production of BSC in four as well as increase the catch of livelihood production. The major fishing areas contributes fishers. H. fuscogilva and H. scabra are relatively to the total production highly valued species in the in Samar province. It has also Through the Center’s facility international trepang trade and are a significant contribution to upgrading component, the boosting the trepang industry in the the supply chain of the fishery microbiology laboratory of Samar Philippines. industry, specifically for the local State University (SSU) was already consumers and export market improved/enhanced with the The Center accomplished (crab meat processing). The procurement of various equipment significant activities in its program generated initial scientific and supplies under the R&D project, first year of operation, which information that would be helpful which maximized the capability of include the assessment of for policy recommendation on the program personnel, researchers, 58 sea cucumber species, of the limitation of BSC fishing graduate, and undergraduate which H. scabra is among the effort in the operational range of students to do research. top five commercially abundant 1.8–10 meters (m) water depth, species in Mindanao. The Center was able to describe that the H. fuscogilva occurs only in deeper waters (>30 meters) in Tawi-Tawi, Misamis Oriental, and Misamis Occidental and described to be fast declining in number to date. The Center has initially produced 28,000 sandfish juveniles for ocean nursery rearing and sea ranching later and successfully spawned teatfish broodstock in a hatchery. This is very helpful to supplement Assessment of fishing gears for the livelihood of coastal gatherers blue swimming crab. of sea cucumbers in the study sites. Matured blue swimming crab. The Center assessed the status of H. fuscogilva catch in the protected and unprotected study sites in Mindanao and abundance of this sea cucumber species in Capayas Island Marine Sanctuary compared to other sites and identified the roles of marine protected areas (MPAs) in the conservation of H. fuscogilva.

Resource assessment of blue Procured equipment of the NICER were swimming crab conducted in Maqueda set up at the Microbiology laboratory. Bay.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 33 Center for Mollusk R&D assessed that trawl has the highest launched virtually during the DOST- catch among all the gears with an PCAARRD’s event, Recognizing The Center described that the annual catch of 1,151.0 tons (t) in Excellence (GALING) Amidst the cephalopod fishery of Panay Island 2019–2020; 407 t of this are from Pandemic on December 22, 2020. is marked by high biodiversity, Capiz, while 750.2 t were from This serves as a useful reference consisting of a total of eight Concepcion, Iloilo. for researchers, academe, LGUs, species: 4 squids (Uroteuthis and other government agencies duvaucelii, U. edulis, Sepioteuthis The Center’s R&D on Mollusk across the country to drive strong lessoniana, and Sthenoteuthis produced the publication “Field information awareness and oualaniensis), 2 cuttlefish Sepia( Guide to the Commercially- understanding of our mollusk recurvirostra and S. latimanus), Important Mollusks of Panay, resources towards their proper and and 2 octopuses (Octopus cyanea Philippines,” which was also sustainable management. and Cistopus indicus). The Center

H. fuscogilva collected in Tawi-Tawi. An encountered H. scabra during one of Reconnaisance survey at the coral reef the sea cucumber catch monitoring. areas in Lopez Jaena.

MSU Naawan Chancellor, and NICER for Sea Cucumber Program leader along with the beneficiaries, and LGU of Camiguin during the seeding and turnover of sandfish juveniles in Benoni, Camiguin. U. edulis.

Octopus cyanea. Uroteuthis (Photololigo) duvaucelii.

34 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Seaweed R&D Center (SeaRDeC) in and Eucheuma denticulatum; and Single-use Plastic Products Tawi-Tawi to Support the Seaweed GIS mapping of economically Regulation Act. The Council also Industry in the Bangsamoro important seaweeds; and laboratory participated in 23 hearings and Autonomous Region in Muslim protocols to extract carrageenan meetings, including discussions Mindanao (BARMM) from Kappaphycus and Eucheuma, with the IATF Task Group on analyze texture, measure viscosity, Food Security (Food Value Chain To optimize the seaweed gel strength, syneresis index, and and Logistics, Water Security, (Kappaphycus and Eucheuma) melting and gelling temperature and Agribusiness) and technical value chain in Tawi-Tawi and create were also prepared. working group (TWG) for the Coffee and promote a commercially and Cacao Industry Development sustainable seaweed industry Policy Initiatives for a More Acts. in BARMM, the program, Conducive S&T Policy Environment "Establishment of a Seaweed R&D National Land Use Act Center in Tawi-Tawi to Support the Policy Advisory on Legislative Seaweed Industry in BARMM" under Issues The Council expressed its support the NICER was implemented. to the passage of the National The year 2020 was a productive Land Use Act (NALUA) as this In its first year of implementation, year for DOST-PCAARRD’s Policy is important in harmonizing and the program conducted hands-on Action Group (PAG). Collectively, the systematizing the government’s trainings on seaweed propagation PAG evaluated and provided policy mandates and initiatives and maintenance in the laboratory, advisories to 159 policy documents in managing land and land preparation of culture media consisting of House and Senate resources. Business as usual and cleaning of cultivars, bills, resolutions, draft executive land-use planning process is no and preparation of laboratory and administrative orders, draft longer sufficient to ensure the propagated seedstocks to be out- implementing rules and regulations, sustainability of our land resources planted in the land-based nursery and other policy documents as manifested by unregulated and actual out-planting in the affecting the AANR sector. These land conversion; widespread hatchery. The program was able also included policy-related inputs decline of land productivity; and to prepare IEC materials (flyer and for DOST and other requesting the unabated deterioration of soil, poster) of laboratory and land- agencies, such as the National water, biodiversity, and ecosystem based propagation of Kappaphycus Economic and Development services. and Eucheuma, and the importance Authority (NEDA) and Department of proper seaweed postharvest of Trade and Industry (DTI). To For the improvement of the processing and carrageenan cite a few, the Council provided bills, DOST-PCAARRD strongly which will be translated to Tausog, significant inputs to bills on the recommended the adoption of a Sinama, and Bisaya dialects. National Land Use Act, Cacao and landscape-wide watershed-based Protocols on laboratory and land- Coffee Industry Development Acts, approach in land use planning as based propagation of Kappaphycus Agriculture Information System Act, this will ensure the sustainability

Seaweed cultivar laboratory. Seaweed varieties in Tawi-Tawi.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 35 of the watersheds and ecosystems within the landscape unit as the pillar of sustainable economic development. This recommendation is borne out of the DOST- PCAARRD-funded policy study on watersheds and is aligned with the proposed solution of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification where the objective is to integrate conservation, land, Virtual focus group discussion (FGD) with eggplant farmers in Talavera, Nueva and water management, restoration, Ecija. and site-specific uses of land. lead agency for STI, strongly through the project, “A Review of Cacao and Coffee Industry advocates the use of digital and Policies on Crop Biotechnology: Development Act modern technologies in bringing Impact on Food Security and science-based solutions in different Agriculture Development in the The Council supported the sectors. Likewise, the Council Climate Change Era.” proposed Cacao and Coffee also expressed its support to Industry Development Acts as it the Philippine Digital Workforce The study’s assessment points recognizes the need to promote Competitiveness Bill, which to the redundancy in functions or and enhance local production, empowers our country’s workforce layers and the limited in-house significantly expand our country’s and advances digital inclusion in experts and dedicated staff as market, and strengthen the the country. the sources of inefficiencies competitiveness of the Philippine in biotechnology regulations. cacao and coffee industries. As The Council stressed the These factors significantly part of the TWG, the Council, importance of mainstreaming R&D delay the issuance of permit along with DA and DTI, thoroughly for emerging technologies, such approval or disapproval for direct reviewed the proposed sets of as but not limited to biotechnology application and commercialization bills for the two commodities and (e.g., genomics, gene-editing, and propagation. Proposed drafted a substitute bill for both, etc.), digital technologies (e.g., big institutional reforms were which will be jointly submitted by data, internet of things, GIS, etc.), generated to address the source the three agencies to the Congress. nanotechnology (nano-imprint of inefficiencies. For example, the lithography, solar energy, etc.), and Biotechnology Authority of the For coffee, the Council manifested neurotechnology (e.g., autonomous Philippines, proposed in House its support to the substitute bill, vehicles, artificial intelligence, etc.). Bill 3372 to promote and regulate which is a revised version of the The Council also recommended biotechnology, is recommended initially proposed Executive Order including digital technology to play a developmental role, (EO) creating the Philippine Coffee transfers and extension services which will ensure continuous Council. In the case of cacao, DOST- under areas for training and skills funding and support to biotech PCAARRD recognized the integral development to help farmers R&D. On the other hand, Biosafety role of the proposed establishment engage with ICT-based tools for Committees attached to select of the Cacao Centers of Excellence farming. national government agencies as a one-stop shop for cacao R&D, (NGAs) should be strengthened technology transfer, and capacity Policy Research and Advocacy by augmenting its personnel building. requirements and building the Review of Crop Biotechnology capacity of personnel tasked to Digital Transformation Act Policies review applications. The study also supported the National The Digital Transformation Act is DOST-PCAARRD embarked on a Committee on Biosafety of the among the supported legislative policy study that assessed existing Philippines (NCBP)-initiated bills of DOST-PCAARRD as it fosters and emerging policies and biosafety TWG recommendations that will digital literacy and competence regulations governing crop streamline the regulatory process. among Filipinos. DOST, as the biotechnology in the Philippines

36 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report On regulating biotechnology The project estimated that the ecosystem services, biodiversity products, the emerging consensus total annual economic value of conservation, flood regulation, among the scientists and experts BNP’s forest ecosystem services and provision of sustainable convened by the policy study is amounted to a range of livelihood were selected. Taking that regulation should be product- P120 M (with onsite households’ advantage of these opportunities based instead of the process- estimate of passive values) to through enterprise development based approach, which is currently P208 M (with offsite households). can generate income for both adopted in the Philippines. This For the bio-resources, seven the residents inside BNP and means that characteristics of and species of flora: 'yantok' the protected area. Should these risks associated with the product (Calamus sp.), 'kalinag' opportunities materialize, resource shall be the focus of the regulation. (Cinnamomummercadoi), 'hinggiw extraction and use should be (Ichnocarpusfrutescens), 'gugo' sustainably managed for all the Valuing Bio-resources and (Entadaphaseoloides), 'dita' stakeholders to benefit from the Ecosystem Services in Bataan (Alstoniascholaris), 'sambong' bio-resources in the long run. National Park (BNP) (Blumeabalsamifera), and 'bignay' Antidesmabunius Streamlining Financial DOST-PCAARRD’s preliminary work and five species of fauna: Management Policies towards developing policy options honeybee (Apis sp.), 'musang' for Publicly-funded R&D for access and benefit-sharing (Paradoxorushermaphroditus), (ABS) and payment for ecosystem 'baboyramo (Sus philippinensis), In 2019, DOST-PCAARRD presented services (PES) mechanism was 'labuyo' (Gallus), and 'bayawak' to the Philippine Congress through initiated through the valuation (Varanusmarmoratus) found the Congressional Planning and of bio-resources and ecosystem in BNP were identified to have Budget Research Department services. Using the case of BNP, strong commercial and economic (CPBRD) its priority legislative this pioneering work implemented potential. agenda for the succeeding by UPLB assessed the economic congress. Among the identified benefits of the park’s bio-resources, The study also estimated the policy issues concerning the AANR recreational ecosystem services, value of Tala River and Lumutan and S&T sectors, the policies and passive-use values. This Falls’ recreational services, which constraining the R&D activities in valuation would be crucial in totaled P3.7 M and P15.4 M, the country were recommended by establishing policy options that respectively. The visitors are willing CPBRD to be further investigated. would strike a balance between to pay more for improvements The meeting paved the way for biodiversity conservation and to the sites' accessibility, safety, discussions on having a systematic pursuing economic growth and waste management, and restroom evaluation of procurement law and development, as well as optimal facilities. For the passive use values other policies affecting R&D. resource allocation. of BNP’s forests and selected

Presentation of the financial Lumutan Falls at BNP. FGD with the indigenous communities at management reform to the CPBRD as the BNP. part of PCAARRD’s legislative agenda.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 37 This prompted the Council to methodologies, and learnings range of activities that aim to invest in the policy analysis project in monitoring and implementing capture the accomplishments of titled, “Assessment of Policy past IA initiatives. Specifically, programs and projects. However, Constraints to the Effective and the document will discuss basic most of these mechanisms are Efficient Conduct of Public R&D in principles and concepts, general apt in monitoring program/project the Philippines,” where the CPBRD methodological approaches, results up to the level of outputs is particularly involved. Through challenges and issues, and (i.e., 6 Ps—publication, patents, the study, the problem—the law, the guidelines in communicating the products, people and services, implementers and their capacity results of IA. places and partnerships, policies) or the lack of observance of the as they pertain to accomplishments law by some agencies shall be While those initiatives are mostly per component activity of projects. better understood and empirical confined to assessing S&T evidence shall be derived. In 2020, interventions in the AANR sector, To address this seeming the project has already conducted the concepts and methodologies focus on the identification and several virtual key informant presented can easily be adopted measurement of outputs, the interviews (KII), FGDs, and surveys in other sectors like health, energy, Council began the development to gather insights and information and emerging industries. Several and institutionalization of the RBME on the respondent’s knowledge of impact studies relevant to the system for its programs/projects. procurement and attendant policies, said sectors were also cited in the This is an M&E enhancement organizational capacities, the document. initiative that seeks to expand the incentive systems, and emerging focus of regular monitoring to policies governing human resources This document will serve as include not only outputs but also for S&T and cash budgeting for guidelines for the staff of DOST outcomes and impacts. Through R&D. Such evidence shall form part agencies, including the top this initiative, the regular monitoring of the Council’s future advocacy management, planning officers, being done by the Council will initiatives as it enhances its role in and the program managers, that cover program/project results at policy analysis and advocacy in the DOST has officially included in the different levels and various stages AANR. conduct of IA in its monitoring and in the R&D continuum, such as evaluation (M&E) system. Other from technology generation to Integrated Approach to Impact researchers and agencies may technology transfer and utilization. Assessment: Simplified Guidelines also find this useful as a guide in for DOST evaluating their developmental With the establishment and tracking project. of objectively verifiable indicators In support of the DOST’s goal of and their corresponding means mainstreaming impact assessment Results-Based Monitoring and of verification at various levels of (IA) into its overall monitoring Evaluation (RBME) System program/project results, the RBME and evaluation protocol, DOST- system will enable an up-to-date PCAARRD developed a guidance The Council has been assiduously demonstration of how the Council’s document that presents its conducting its M&E function to interventions are generating knowledge and experience derived ensure that its R&D investments changes or improvements in the from its long years of work on IA. yield relevant and high-quality S&T AANR sector. The system will be Through the guidance document, solutions for the AANR sector. Its applied to programs/projects under the Council intends to share with M&E mechanisms include a wide the Council’s ISPs. DOST units the concepts and

38 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Agenda 3: Engage in R&D to Generate and Apply New Knowledge and Technologies Across Sectors

Protein Hydrolysates from Marine will adopt the products/protocols Colloidal Gold Nanoparticles Fisheries Species that will be developed. This R&D (AuNPs) Immune Assay for the potentially benefits in advancing Rapid Detection of Bacterial Marine resources offer a vast the pharmaceutical industry, in Pathogens in Freshwater Tilapia option of protein sources. Proteins, general, which initiates researches Aquaculture if hydrolyzed by enzymes will on the use of bioavailable proteins produce hydrolysates. These and bioactive peptides from marine Among the various disease-causing protein hydrolysates offer vast species to develop easy, digestible pathogens, bacterial pathogens are functional characteristics intended foods with complete nutrition the major cause of infections and as food supplements for sick and potential efficacy as food disease problems in wild fish and people (or people with low immune supplements. Currently, the project fish reared in confined conditions. responses). This R&D is directed to has already produced protein An important prerequisite for produce food that is easy to digest isolates from marine species, such diagnosing and establishing in the form of supplements; low as big-eyed scad, oysters, and proper treatment and preventive molecular weight peptides instead sardines, and their protein content action against diseases is disease of high molecular weight proteins, was already determined. Big-eyed detection. Thus, the Aerobac test as appropriate diet should provide scad has the highest yield of kit was developed. The project complete nutrition; and at the same protein isolates among the marine utilized nanotechnology and time, boost sickness healing (and/ species used but protein isolates genome-related technologies in the or increase the immune system from the oyster have the highest development of a rapid detection responses). protein content. This information kit against bacterial pathogens in is important to further refine the tilapia (i.e., Aeromonas hydrophila The project is in collaboration with process protocols in developing and Enterococcus faecalis). Pascual Pharma Corporation (PPC), hydrolysates from marine species. a Philippine drug company, which

Dr. Jose Peralta, Project leader from the Hydrolysates from (left) big eyed scad, (middle) oyster, and (right) sardines. University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV), doing spray drying of enzyme digested marine fisheries samples the protein hydrolysates into powder.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 39 The project developed and The developed technology will was developed by combining produced two DNA-based detection contribute to the tilapia aquaculture genetic marker technology and kits for Aeromonas hydrophila and industry and help prevent fish image analysis to trace for a Enterococcus faecalis. The Aerobac mortality in the earliest stages, possible morphological method for test kit caters to the need of fish thereby giving farmers immediate species identification in juveniles. farmers, students, and researchers precautionary and preventive in the provision of a reliable and actions against disease outbreaks. Crabifier is a free and accurate user-friendly diagnostic technique Android-based mobile application for pathogenic bacteria that Mangrove Crab Crabifier that can identify the species of could result in a possible disease Application juvenile crablets of the genus threat to the culture system. It is Scylla. It allows the mangrove crab recommended that the detection of Of the three mangrove crab species farmers to pick their species of A. hydrophila and E. faecalis using in the Philippines, Scylla serrata or choice from juveniles captured protocol B be further investigated the giant mangrove crab is capable from the wild and to confirm the to obtain accurate results. The of growing faster and bigger species being sold by the traders. Modified Protocol A-2 produced compared to S. tranquebarica and This application also prevents from the Detection Protocol A S. olivacea. There is no obvious the mangrove crab farmers from represents a platform that can morphological marker to distinguish overstocking regardless of the be used to accommodate easy, one species from the other. species to compensate for the accurate, and rapid detection of Fishermen are unable to determine expected loss and operation many bacterial species using whether the species of crablets expansion by clearing out more an array of probes and be easily captured from the wild or sold by mangrove areas. The use of this adapted and used in kitchen-type the traders are the species that they application can revolutionize this laboratories. need. An application called Crabifier process by providing a mechanism that can allow our mangrove crab farmers the option to improve their production processes.

Mangrove crab traders and buyers have positive feedback on the Crabifier application. The researchers have currently visualized how the convolutional neural network’s last intermediate layers differentiate species to increase accuracy.

Crabifier is free to download Aerobac test kit developed by CLSU under the leadership of Dr. Karl Marx A. at Google Play and has been Quiazon. optimized for use in low-resolution phone cameras and inexpensive Android phones. It has been tested in the field with mangrove crab farmers/fishers and used to classify more than 1,000 crablets from traders who source crablets in Bicol, Sorsogon, and Iligan. There are currently more than 700 active users of Crabifier.

Identification of juvenile mangrove crab (Scylla serrata) using Crabifier application.

40 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Eggplant Fruit and Shoot Borer Technologies," a software that (USB) web camera or an internet (EFSB) Motion Tracking Software tracks the movement of EFSB larva protocol camera connected to a has been developed. computer. The program will track The EFSB, Leucinodes orbonalis the movement, feeding patterns, Guenee, is the most destructive The said software is a low-cost and behavior of EFSB as input to insect pest of eggplant. When the innovative technology that explores determining the eggplant genotypes larva feeds on the shoots, it causes the use of video motion tracking most or least preferred for feeding. wilting on fruits, which affects algorithms to design and develop their marketability. EFSB damage a computer program that would Cellulosic Nanocrystals can result in up to 90% yield loss enable researchers to track and from Wood and Processing Wastes at high infestation. Through the document larval movement and of Industrial Tree Plantation project, “Development of Improved feeding preference in a precise Species (ITPS) Eggplant Varieties with New Plant manner. Also, the software may Defense Genes for Multiple Insect be used for similar lepidopteran With the use of nanotechnology, Resistance Using Innovative pests. Using a universal serial bus alternative potential products can be developed from ITPS, either from solid timber or from wastes generated from their processing. Nanotechnology offers new and exciting opportunities in utilizing timber, providing possibilities not only in deriving new wood-based feedstocks and end-products but also in obtaining novel lumber products modified with other nanomaterials that enhance performance, quality, and product durability.

A program was conducted to harness the wood wastes from falcata, yemane, and mangium into nanocellulose. This is considered a promising material EFSB motion tracking setup. (UPLB) for a variety of applications ranging from composites, medicine, and electronics. With the developed protocol for obtaining nanocellulose from the three species and determination of its potential, applications may expand the market opportunities for tree plantation species and generate better prices for the timber that small-scale tree plantation growers produce.

EFSB tracking frames. (UPLB)

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 41 Agenda 4: Strengthen and Utilize Regional R&D Capabilities

DOST-PCAARRD in the Regions DOST-PCAARRD approved four R&D management activities in the projects endorsed by the consortia regions, which is given annually Despite the threat of the worldwide and for implementation by different from 1995 to 2004 and biennially pandemic experienced in 2020, consortium member institutions. thereafter until 2012. DOST-PCAARRD and the regional Moreover, in response to the needs consortia continued strengthening in the regions for food production In the midst of uncertainties caused their partnership in addressing and distribution brought about by by the COVID-19 pandemic, the regional development and concerns the pandemic, 26 QRPs were also partnership remains strong to fulfill and creating greater impact on approved and funded. The Council its goal and carry out concerted the advancement in the AANR continued to support and provide programs and activities that sector. The 15 regional consortia experts/evaluators during the respond to the immediate needs and its member-institutions, which conduct of Regional Symposium of its stakeholders in the regions. consisted of 280 R&D implementing on R&D Highlights and Commodity DOST-PCAARRD will continue to (SUCs/higher education institutions Reviews, as well as attending provide technical and financial [HEIs], research and development RRDCC meetings of the consortia support to the regional consortia. institutes [RDIs]) and non-R&D as part of its M&E activities in the implementing agencies (LGUs, regions. Establishment of Niche Centers in non-government organizations the Region (NICER) [NGOs], other government offices The Council revived the prestigious [GOs], etc.) responded to the needs Ugnay Award for regional consortia In 2020, a total of three niche of stakeholders in the regions since 2012. The award is given to centers were established: Philippine through the Council’s banner the most outstanding consortia Native Pig Center (IV-B), Halal Goat programs on strategic R&D, R&D in recognition of their efforts as Science and Innovation Center results utilization (RDRU), capability partners of the Council in planning, (X, XII), and Seaweed R&D Center building and governance, and policy monitoring, evaluating, and (BARMM). analysis and advocacy. coordinating R&D and technology

During the year, the institutionalization of the consortia was implemented in the regions through the program, "Support to the Implementation of the Regional Collaborative Program (RCP) for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development," and approved during the annual Joint Regional Research and Development Coordinating Council (RRDCC) Chairpersons, consortium directors, and DOST- PCAARRD Directorate Meeting held on January 31, 2020 at the DOST-PCAARRD Innovation and Technology Center (DPITC). The Council provided a total budget of P30.4 M for the consortia management and operations for the year. Fifteen DOST- PCAARRD regional consortia.

42 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Agenda 5: Maximize Utilization of R&D Results through Technology Transfer and Commercialization

Technology Transfer technology transfer efforts also S&T interventions in the farm and and Commercialization focused on programs that will communities. Within its course increase community resilience to of implementation, the six project DOST-PCAARRD has been climate change, as well as improve components of the SAFE CAR continuously spearheading efforts the plight of the poor in conflict Program initiated various activities to increase the diffusion of open vulnerable areas. in partnership with concerned SUCs innovation practices and to take and LGUs. The program produced a on global challenges to increase For 2020, the Council implemented pool of champions and empowered policy focus on the impact of the program, “Disaster Risk the communities on Disaster R&D research results. Through Reduction on Climate Change Risk Reduction-Climate Change technology transfer activities, the Impacts on Agricultural Farms Adaptation and Mitigation (DRR- Council has evolved not only for in the Cordillera Administrative CCAM). It also made the farms the ultimate commercialization Region (SAFE CAR),” which aims resilient to the impacts of climate of technologies but to be relevant to achieve its goal to address and change and ensured sustainable in addressing the present call minimize the effects of disaster food production in times of of times. Further, the Council’s and calamities titled by using disasters.

Apayao State College (ASC) President Nelia Cauilan Participants harvesting potatoes during the field day in Bauko, visited the established demo farm in Pudtol, Apayao. Mt. Province.

Harvest festival conducted in Tublay, Benguet showcasing the S&T interventions applied in farmers' farms.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 43 Similarly, DOST-PCAARRD also embarked on the “SAFE Project on Philippine Native Animals for Disaster Risk Reduction in Hazard- Prone Areas of Benguet (SAFE- PNADRRHAB).”

DOST-PCAARRD also initiated social protection programs through successful collaborations between One of the 12 native pig breeders Itogon Native Pig Raisers Association (INPRA) researchers across different provided to native pig raisers in General Assembly. research institutions to address the Itogon, Benguet. needs of the poor and to prioritize disadvantaged communities and social groups across the nation. The Council believes that this approach protects the country’s vulnerable sector by building resilience and providing access to income-earning opportunities.

One of these programs is, “The Science and Technology for Community-based for Inclusive Training on Mushroom Production Farmer cooperators in Jolo, Sulu Development (STC4iD) Program,” conducted by CMU on July 29, 2020. planting cassava. which has been ongoing for the past 2 years. The program aims to establish sustainable and resilient AANR-based communities through S&T. The program intends to become a demonstration of technology transfer modality in the identified Geographically, Economically, and/ or Socially Disadvantaged (GESDA) communities and social groups in the AANR sector. The existing five community-based partner organizations were continued to be strengthened by the five partner SUCs during this period. The production/adoption of The website was created for the PULL Program to convey specific and helpful their identified commodities and information to other stakeholders. technologies for livelihood were also sustained. So far, the program other agencies, agreements were improved, sustainable, and resilient has conducted 13 trainings for also drafted and signed. community-based livelihoods 173 farmer cooperators; signed for the conflict-vulnerable in the 7 MOAs/MOUs among partner Another program is “Enhancing AANR sector. The project has been institutions; and produced Livelihood Opportunities in implemented in three conflict- 16 modules and 29 IEC materials, Conflict-Vulnerable Areas in vulnerable areas, namely, Ipil 7 of which have been filed for Mindanao through the LIFE (Zamboanga Sibugay), Koronadal copyright and 2 trademarks for the (Livelihood Improvement through (South Cotabato), and Ampatuan STC4iD logo and BIGANI logo. In Facilitated Extension) Model,” (Maguindanao). These areas were 2020, aside from coordination with which aims to establish more identified based on their agricultural

44 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report nature and their relevance to various grades of conflict. Six farmer organizations from those three conflict-vulnerable areas composed of 241 members were organized. As a result, the program improved farmer’s social capital; increased their income and diversified their livelihood; facilitated access of farmers to programs of various agencies; and increased farmer knowledge and skills on organic agriculture and seaweed production, including DOST-PCAARRD conducts the MOA signing ceremony and inception meeting for functional literacy and numeracy. the Support to the University's Strategies in Technology Acceleration Initiatives by Nurturing (SUSTAIN) the Intellectual Property and Technology Business DOST-PCAARRD Management (IP-TBM) Offices of the Consortia Member Agencies Phase 2 on Commercialization Programs: January 30, 2020 at DPITC. Delivering Results and Responding to the Call for Relief Assistance

Three major programs under the DPITC platform have been making waves since the Center’s establishment in 2016. These are the IP-TBM, DOST-PCAARRD National Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubation (ATBI), and SciCAT.

In 2020, the IP-TBM program The National Technology Pitching Day led by the DOST-Forest Products Research welcomed the year by officiating and Development Institute (FPRDI). 25 new partnerships under “Support to the University's and aqua technologies was also will be under its official name, Strategies in Technology held through a virtual National Pitch “Agri-Aqua Business Incubation Acceleration Initiatives by Nurturing Day on top of virtual technology Network of the Philippines, Inc.” the Intellectual Property and pitch days conducted in the regions. (AABINPhil, Inc.). With the vision Technology Business Management of being “a premier enabling Offices of the Consortia Member The ATBI program likewise association promoting agri-aqua Agencies (SUSTAIN IP-TBM).” reached new heights with technology business incubation Under SUSTAIN, five agencies from 16 ATBIs established nationwide. in the Philippines,” the registration the first two batches of IP-TBM It has now produced 30 graduates was initiated by its incorporators served as mentors, whose objective and is now supporting a total of and founding members who are is to help capacitate five more 154 incubatees. The total gross part of the first batch of the ATBI agencies within their respective income of the incubatees’ program led by Dr. Ruth C. Diego of regions in IP management and enterprises is now at P24.6 M. the BSU-ATBI. commercialization. The number These paved the way for the of IPs filed by the IP-TBM program creation of 469 jobs. A media campaign of the ATBI has reached a total of 1,593 IP program was also launched, which applications: 195 patents, 564 utility Moreover, the ATBI program was is the first of its kind. models, 109 industrial designs, recognized by the Securities and 84 trademarks, and 641 copyrights Exchange Commission (SEC) as a DOST-PCAARRD continues its covering the year 2018–2020. registered corporation on commitment in transforming Promotion of R&D-generated agri August 14, 2020. The said program ordinary farms into SciCAT farm

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 45 tourism enterprises that showcase technological convergence to improve productivity and capacity for sustainable farming practices. To date, seven SciCAT farms have been established, in which 15 POTs are being implemented. These technologies were initially transferred to 22 adopters; two of which are farmer-associations who ATBI social media accounts. will also be adopting the SciCAT program concept in its member farms.

For the tourism component, necessary renovations of farm structures were conducted including the establishment of four SciCAT entrance signage/ markers and four pergola photo booths, which serve as additional attractions on the farm.

The program also helped generate 22 job opportunities and conducted a series of COVID-19 relief operations wherein around Magsasaka-Siyentista Naomi Dimpas implementing the Farmer Livestock School 5 t of fresh fruits and vegetables Goat Enterprise Management (FLS-GEM) technology in the SciCAT farm. and 4,500 seedlings per planting materials were distributed to frontliners and the community to help alleviate the country’s situation amidst the pandemic.

Furthermore, listed in Table 2 are technologies that were successfully commercialized in 2020 through the Council’s initiatives.

The 51 IP-TBM offices, 16 ATBIs, and 13 SciCAT sites across the The harvested 'pakbet' vegetables produced The SciCAT signage of the country serve as centers for SUCs’ in Dimpas Greentigrated Agri-Tourism Farm in Silan’s Farm in Indang, Cavite. and RDIs’ Intellectual Property Davao Oriental. (IP) management, technology business incubation, and science- to Heal as One Act. Relief Establishment and based agri-tourism, respectively. assistance of various projects Institutionalization of It is notable that these projects which started in February 2020 the Agri-Aqua Business Hub not only delivered their primary was valued at P1.1 M. Envisioned objectives and functions. They also to be of service to Filipinos, these The Agri-Aqua Business Hub was serve as strategic locations for projects also became an immediate formed to allow DOST-PCAARRD DOST-PCAARRD to extend help to means in helping Filipinos amidst to contribute to the development COVID-19 communities in support the COVID-19 crisis. of the Philippines’ AANR of RA No. 11469 or the Bayanihan sector through engaging in the

46 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report agribusiness industry. This initiative Table 2. List of technologies commercialized in 2020. aims to support its clientele by No. Technology Agency Adopter/Licensee offering services that will ultimately 1 Chevon Valley canned ISU DV Boer Farm International lead to new profit opportunities or products Corporation the formation of new enterprises. 2 Goat semen extender ISU DV Boer Farm International (SemEx) Corporation Services Offered 3 Meat detection test kit UPLB IDtechnologies Laboratory, Inc. Several factors will be considered to (IDtech Lab) (spin-off) generate or enhance an enterprise 4 Botanical dewormer CapSU BDOZ Veterinary Products Trading/ and together with the Council's Dr. Bede P. Ozaraga (spin-Off) R&D outputs, the services offered 5 'Makahiya' tea CapSU D'Alfincoles Food and Beverages by the hub will be utilized to ensure Trading/Dra. Ma. Dorothee Villaruz that the Council can cater to clients (spin-off) ranging from small-scale farmers 6 Kaong sugar CvSU MAWCO (direct licensing) to large established enterprises. The services provided are enterprise assessment, technology assessment, preparation of investment packages and other relevant IEC materials, capacity building, loan facilitation, market linkaging, market monitoring, market advisories, institutional networking, and post-TBI mentoring. The tools to be used in the enterprise and technology assessment will determine the gaps and risks within the enterprise, which will then dictate the type of support the hub will provide. An investment package in the form of a handbook will also be generated to serve as a guide for Meeting with organic vegetables entrepreneurs. the client in keeping the enterprise sustainable. In terms of capacity building, the hub will collaborate initial draft containing an extensive ‘lakatan,’ and organic vegetable with both public and private training overview of how the services will be enterprises. Interviews have been institutions to foster human capital implemented. conducted with the representatives development among its clientele. from the specified enterprises. Any financial assistance needed Testing the Effectiveness The team will continue to monitor will also be handled by creating of the Strategies their improvements through a linkage between a client and a multiple assessments and proper suitable credit service provider. The Before going fully operational, interventions. Simultaneously, the hub also aims to create its real- the strategies are currently being tools and methods used in assisting time market database to be able tested. The Agri-Aqua Business the enterprises will also be to accurately disseminate market Hub has been focusing on three examined to make sure that the hub information through numerous enterprises, particularly tilapia, will be ready to go into full swing. channels. The team formulated the

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 47 Agenda 6: Develop STI Human Resources and Build a Strong STI Culture

The DOST-PCAARRD Human building activities and programs— Graduate Research and Education Resource Development Program the GREAT Program, Thesis/ Assistance Program (HRDP) encountered significant Dissertation Assistance, Re-entry, challenges in 2020. The COVID-19 Publication Incentives, Sandwich, From 2017 to 2020, 62 grantees pandemic, which resulted in global and Non-Degree Training Programs (45 Master's Degree [MS], lockdown during the first quarter to improve the Council's reach and 17 Doctor of Philosophy [PhD]) have led to changes in how the HRDP ensure continued relevance in the already been awarded with GREAT is being implemented. The DBM sector. The final reduced budget is Scholarship. For 2020, DOST- issued the National Budget still higher than the 2019 budget. PCAARRD managed and monitored Circular 580, "Adopting Economy 41 scholars (16 PhD and 25 MS), Measures in the Government Due To continue providing enhancement including 4 MS and to the Emergency Health Situation," courses to members of the 3 PhD for 2020 intake. which discontinued funding of NAARRDN, DOST-PCAARRD online local and foreign travels and at Learning Management System Despite the pandemic, four scholars least 10% of the cost of training, (LMS) was developed. The LMS were able to obtain their degree seminars, and workshops. Likewise, houses the DOST-PCAARRD non- as of August 2020—three MS and the community quarantine and degree training courses, which the first PhD completer Dr. Rey social distancing implemented to are being conducted online J. dela Calzada obtained his PhD reduce the spread of COVID-19, synchronously starting the fourth in Fisheries at UPV in July 2020. significantly affected the way quarter of 2020. non-degree training courses are taught. Hence, while the human resource development programs were still implemented in 2020, accomplishing the original set targets for specific programs was not possible. However, it did not hinder other programs to accomplish more than their targets. HRD Programs that were significantly affected are the Re- entry, Sandwich, and Non-degree Training Programs. The GREAT Program scholars encountered difficulty in conducting their thesis/ dissertation due to the lockdown, which caused a delay in completing their degree. On the other hand, more applications were received for the Thesis/Dissertation Assistance and Publication Incentives Programs.

For 2020, DOST-PCAARRD Dr. Rey J. dela Calzada is the first PhD Ms. Blair Ann L. Adora of DA-Region 9 generated P35.2 M from DOST completer of the GREAT Program. He obtained her MS in plant pathology at UPLB in December 2020. The approved to support human resources finished his PhD in Fisheries at UPV. His thesis is anchored on the project re-entry project, “Management of development, particularly the BSP under the Shrimp ISP. White Root Rot (Rigidoporus lignosus) and the GREAT Program. The Using Endophytic Fungi from the Council likewise provided P36.2 M Roots of Healthy Rubber Tree," will be for the continuation of its capacity- implemented as part of the Rubber ISP.

48 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Distribution of 2020 ongoing GREAT scholars per study Degree and course of thesis/dissertation assistance grantees, post. 2020.

Another MS scholar completed thesis/dissertation assistance to of the journal where the article was her degree courses in December 30 graduate students (15 PhD published. This is the Council’s way 2020, thus a total of five GREAT and 15 MS). The majority of the of promoting scientific productivity completers for 2020. grantees for the year are studying in the AANR sector to encourage at UPLB (93%), while the CLSU the generation of new ideas leading In addition, the first re-entry and the CMU had one grantee to more innovative researches, proposal of a GREAT completer was each. Fields of specialization are advancement of science and approved in CY 2020. Ms. Blair Ann aquaculture, agricultural chemistry, generation of technology. L. Adora of DA-Region 9 had her re- agricultural education, agronomy, Despite the pandemic, the number entry proposal titled, “Management plant breeding, botany, entomology, of grantees continues to rise in of White Root Rot (Rigidoporus genetics, microbiology, molecular 2020 with 58 research articles from lignosus) Using Endophytic Fungi biology and biotechnology, animal 51 researchers from the NAARRDN. from the Roots of Healthy Rubber science, forestry, environmental Total grants for publication Tree,” with a budget of P5 M science, and development studies. incentives amounted to P3.495 M approved for implementation during benefitting various institutions in the last quarter of 2020. Publication Incentives Program 13 regions. It is worthwhile to note that 95% of these submissions were The fields of specialization for DOST-PCAARRD’s Publication published in international journals, MS revolve around the following Incentive Program (PIP) continue to denoting the high quality of journal sectors: MS—23 from agriculture, gain popularity in 2020. Partnering articles by these researchers. 10 from aquatic, and 12 from the the program with a training natural resources; and PhD—8 from course on Technical Writing for Non-degree Training Program agriculture, 7 from aquatic, and Publication in a Refereed Journal 2 from the natural resources. being sponsored by the Council Likewise, the non-degree for researchers and scholars in training program encountered a Thesis/Dissertation the NAARRDN. The Council has major setback in 2020 with the Assistance Program been encouraging and motivating implementation of social distancing NAARRDN researchers, authors, and travel restrictions. The The DOST-PCAARRD Thesis/ DOST-PCAARRD staff, and scholars challenge, however, did not stop the Dissertation Assistance provides to publish their research results Council in offering enhancement financial support for graduate in reputable local refereed and/or courses to its partners. The students’ thesis/dissertation international journals. Publications DOST-PCAARRD online LMS was expenses of up to P100,000 (PhD) in refereed journals entitle the developed to allow the Council or P50,000 (MS) for research that author to a publication grant of to continue reaching its partners falls within the priority areas of P25,000–P70,000, the amount of through online training. the Council. The Council provided which depends on the impact factor

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 49 Two face-to-face and eight online Balik Scientist Program • Dr. Nonawin Lucob-Agustin, training courses were implemented Research/Teaching Assistant, in 2020, which benefited The operations of the program have International Center for Research 222 researchers, scientists, been hampered due to travel and and Education in Agriculture, engineers, and technical staff in the mobility restrictions. Despite the Nagoya University, Japan NAARRDN and DOST-PCAARRD. challenge, the program was able • Dr. Maria L. Chu, Assistant Training courses offered in 2020 to engage Balik Scientists who Professor, Soil and Water include R&D management related assisted the host institutions in Resources Engineering, University courses, such as formulating and their research activities amidst the of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, packaging proposals; technical health crisis and also contributed to USA writing for publication in a refereed the COVID-19 efforts. • Dr. Guillermo A. Mendoza, journal; and enhancing the work Professor Emeritus, University of foundation of newly hired DOST- This year, DOST-PCAARRD Illinois, USA PCAARRD staff and other related facilitated the approval of • Dr. Joel L. Cuello, Professor, courses, such as the agribusiness nine short-term and three long-term University of Arizona, USA master class, online module Balik Scientists. development, and learning tools for Long Term online training. Technology-based Short Term training on mangrove crab culture • Dr. Jayvee A. Saco, Assistant and rubber production was also • Dr. Josefino C. Comiso, Scientist Professor, Batangas State conducted online. Emeritus, NASA Goddard Space University (BatSU) Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland, • Dr. Leilani Sumabat-Dacones, Training modules for the different United States of America Assistant Professor, Institute courses were compiled, reviewed, • Ms. Shirley K. Chavez, Certified of Biology, College of Science, standardized, and uploaded in the Computer Professional University of the Philippines- LMS. Currently, 18 training courses and Project Management Diliman, Quezon City with 198 modules are already Professional, Alberta, Canada. • Dr. Nikki Heherson A. Dagamac, uploaded in the LMS. By the fourth • Dr. Nelzo C. Ereful, Senior Post- Assistant Professor, University of quarter of 2020, selected training doctoral Researcher, National Santo Tomas courses were already conducted Institute of Agricultural Botany, online through the LMS. Currently, Cambridge, United Kingdom In addition to the new awardees this synchronous training courses are • Dr. Narceo B. Bajet, retired year, two short-term and six long- still restricted and are offered by Senior Scientist, Eurofins STA term Balik Scientists continued their invitation only. Laboratories, Inc., Longmont, engagement this year. Colorado, USA To maximize the use of the • Dr. Venecio U. Ultra, Jr., Assistant • Dr. Janneli Lea A. Soria, Research LMS, technology-based learning Professor, Department of Earth Fellow, Earth Observatory materials that are products of and Environmental Sciences, of Singapore from Nanyang DOST-PCAARRD-funded projects, Botswana International University Technological University including PowerPoint presentations, of Science and Technology videos, and brochures were collected from the technical research divisions and the consortia and also uploaded in the LMS. These learning materials were sorted by ISP and are now accessible through the LMS. These learning materials are open to the public and can be accessed anytime. To date, there are 4 brochures, 102 PowerPoint presentations, and 30 videos uploaded in the LMS. Distribution of technology-based materials uploaded in the LMS per sector.

50 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report • Dr. Guillermo A. Mendoza, Philippine Agribusiness Professor Andrew Campbell, Professor Emeritus, University of Master Class ACIAR Chief Executive Officer Illinois, USA (CEO); Dr. Howard Hall, ACIAR • Dr. Wilfred John E. Santiañez, The Agribusiness Master Agribusiness Research Program, Assistant Professor, UP-MSI Class (AMC) is a collaborative and Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora of DOST- • Dr. Irene B. Rodriguez, Associate initiative among DOST-PCAARRD, PCAARRD, among others. Professor, UP-MSI ACIAR, and the Commonwealth • Dr. Charina Lyn A. Repollo, Scientific and Industrial Research DOST-PCAARRD S&T Awards University Researcher, UP-MSI Organisation (CSIRO) in Australia Program • Dr. Zenith Gaye A. Orozco- for the development of inclusive Bautista, Assistant Professor, value chains in the AANR sector. DOST-PCAARRD confers the Institute of Biology, UP Diliman In particular, it aims to develop S&T awards to recognize the • Dr. Deo Florence L. Onda, capabilities in understanding outstanding performance and Associate Professor, UP-MSI priorities in agribusiness value contribution of its partners— • Dr. Michael Y. Roleda, Professor, chains and evaluating inclusive researchers/scientists, research UP-MSI value chain interventions. The administrators, R&D institutions, AMC is a prime environment to and media practitioners in the The Council actively participated foster agribusiness leadership and AANR R&D. With these awards, in the formulation of the BSP collaboration among a cohort of the Council hopes to inspire and supplemental guidelines. The said researchers, policymakers, and encourage more people to get guideline allows Balik Scientists private sector managers in the involved in R&D, to effect change, to be engaged on alternative Philippines. and create a great impact on the mode of engagements whether AANR sector to contribute to remote or on-site. This also gives AMC is a three-part training technological, social, and economic the Balik Scientists the leeway to series conducted from November development in the country. conduct the activities on a flexible 2019 to September 2020 with schedule and provide extension in mentors composed of experts For 2020, DOST-PCAARRD the engagement duration should from CSIRO, the University of conferred its annual awards namely, the activities of the Balik Scientists Queensland in Australia, and the Best R&D Papers, Dr. Elvira O. Tan, become affected due to lockdowns Foodlink Advocacy Co-operative. and Ulat SIPAG. Also, this year, the or community quarantine. Thirty participants from NGOs, biennial award, Ugnay, was revived private institutions, SUCs, farmer after 8 years to give recognition The program also conducted a organizations, and government to the most outstanding regional virtual forum on November 17, agencies were carefully selected consortium. Winners were awarded 2020. The BSP Online Forum to join the training. At the end of their plaques of recognition or themed, "Balik Scientist: Kabalikat the training, the Philippine AMC trophies and cash incentives or sa Agham at Teknolohiya sa group was able to analyze 20 value award grant. Pagharap ng Hamon sa Kalusugan, chain mini projects covering crops, Kabuhayan at Kinabukasan," livestock, forestry, and aquaculture Best R&D Paper Awards showcased the activities and commodities, as well as cross- contributions being done by Balik cutting concerns such as marketing The council received a total of Scientists amidst the COVID19 and distribution of agricultural 17 entries from the consortia with pandemic. The forum had commodities. 9 entries for the research category three parallel sessions namely: and 8 for development category. livelihood, education, and health The AMC is concluded through These entries are winners from participated by Balik Scientists, the session titled, “Philippine the Regional Symposium R&D hosts institutions, researchers, and AMC: A Call to Action,” which was Highlights (RSRDH). interested social media users. participated by His Excellency Steven Robinson, Australian On December 1, 2020, DOST- Ambassador to the Philippines; PCAARRD hosted its first online

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 51 National Symposium on Agriculture “Community-based Participatory Palm Species." The Outstanding and Aquatic Resources R&D Action Research on Sustainable Published Paper in Aquatic (NSAARRD) where the finalists Corn Production in Sloping Areas Sciences Category was awarded of the Best R&D Paper Awards (SCoPSA) in Barangays Divisoria to, "Reproductive Development presented their papers to the board Sur and Divisoria Norte, Maddela, of the Threatened Giant Grouper of judges. The event garnered Quirino,” was presented by (Epinephelus lanceolatus)." The 3,500 views from FB Live and Ms. Chonalyn A. Pascua from the Outstanding Published Paper in Youtube Live. Department of Agriculture-Regional Natural Resources and Environment Field Office (DA-RFO) 2. Category was awarded to, "Mapping For the Research Category, the first Fishing Activities and Suitable place was awarded to the paper, Ulat SIPAG Awards Fishing Grounds Using Nighttime “Harnessing Entomopathogenic Satellite Images and Maximum Fungi (EPF) for the Control of Citrus For the Print Category, first place Entropy Modelling." Rind Borer (CRB) (Prays endolemma was awarded to Mr. Julio P. Yap, Diakonoff) on Satsuma Mandarin Jr. of Agriculture Magazine, Panay Ugnay Award (Citrus unshiu),” presented by News, and MARID Agribusiness Dr. Jonar I. Yago from Nueva Digest. Second place was awarded The first place for the Most Vizcaya State University (NVSU). to Mr. Cecilio T. Gunio, Jr. of Manila Outstanding Regional R&D Second place winner is the paper, Standard. Consortium was awarded to “From Functional Genomics the Cagayan Valley Agriculture, to Functional Applications in For the Broadcast Category, first Aquatic and Resources Research Cacao Production and Varietal place was awarded to Hermelina and Development Consortium Improvement,” presented by C. Tenorio of Syensya na Tekno Pa, (CVAARRD). Second place was Dr. Edward A. Barlaan, from USM. Radyo Agila, Eagle Broadcasting awarded to Visayas Consortium The third place goes to the paper, Corporation. Second place was for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural “Classical Swine Fever Surveillance awarded to Custer C. Deocaris of Resources Program (ViCARP). Third in Mindanao Towards its Control Pinoy Scientist, Radyo Agila, Eagle place was awarded to Cordillera and Eradication,” presented by Broadcasting Corporation. Third Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic Dr. Alan P. Dargantes from CMU. place was awarded to Josephine and Resources Research and D. Agapito of Pinoy Scientist, Development (CorCAARRD). For the Development Category, Radyo Agila, Eagle Broadcasting the first place was awarded to the Corporation. Winners of the DOST-PCAARRD paper, “Improvement of Mango S&T Awards were announced Production through S&T Innovation Dr. Elvira O. Tan Awards during the DOST-PCAARRD S&T and Support Mechanism for Awarding Ceremony on December Capacity Development in Bataan The Outstanding Published Paper in 22, 2020. With the conferment of and Zambales.” Dr. Hermogenes Agriculture Category was awarded these awards, the Council continues M. Paguia from Bataan Peninsula to "Cocos nucifera L. ('Catigan to encourage participation in State University presented the Green Dwarf') Provides Insights innovation and recognize the works paper during the NSAARRD. For into Genomic Variation Between of Filipino scientists in the AANR the second place, the paper, Coconut Types and Related sector.

52 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 53 54 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report CVAARRD oral presentation for Ugnay Award, CorCAARRD oral presentation and field validation for Ugnay Award, August 27, 2020 via Zoom. August 26, 2020 and Sept 7, 2020, respectively via Zoom.

ViCARP oral presentation and field validation for Ugnay Award, March 10–11 2020, VSU, Baybay City, Leyte. Ugnay Award trophy.

External Awards Received

Dr. Melvin B. Carlos received the following recognition during the year:

• Completed the Senior Executive Class Shuttle Course Batch 1 (with honors) and Outstanding Capstone Paper Award Policy Paper at the Development Academy of the Philippines; and • Conferred Career Executive Service Officer (CESO) Rank IV by the Office of the President on December 3, 2020.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 55 Agenda 7: Upgrade STI Facilities and Capacities to Advance R&D Activities and Expand S&T Services

Facilities Development 2. Upgrading of the Horticulture 4. Capacitate the NwSSU-Agro- for the NAARRDN Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory Environmental Laboratory to increase its capacity and as a service laboratory to The implementation of R&D improve the efficiency of perform analysis of heavy metal projects by various DOST-PCAARRD producing planting materials for concentration in soil, water, and regional partners requires the horticulture crops, especially plant tissue samples in NwSSU; upgrading and/or improvement different bamboo species in and of its partner’s facilities to enable VSU; 5. Upgrading of the Cacao them to deliver the desired outputs 3. Upgrading of the Dairy Postharvest Facility to address and to enable them to continuously Complex making it suitable the cacao postharvest handling conduct R&D. The five projects are for the conduct of research, and processing component of the following: development, and training the ongoing Cacao R&D project, activities related to assisted particularly in obtaining bean 1. Upgrading of Fish Health reproduction technologies yield and quality by conducting Laboratory of the Freshwater (ART), specifically artificial sensory evaluation of cacao Fisheries Center (FFC) to insemination and embryo product in USM. improve health management transfer, genomics, and and increase fish production in nutrition in UPLB-DTRI; ISU, Echague, Isabela;

56 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Agenda 9: Provide STI-based Solutions for Disaster Risks and Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation

Climate Change Adaptation Council’s ISP on Climate Change. for the capability of land for and Mitigation The project, “Development of agroforestry in the five study sites Decision Support System for using the Analytical Hierarchy Enhancing Climate Change Enhancing Climate Change Process (AHP), develop different Resiliency of Farmers in Resiliency of Smallholder Upland thematic maps, gather data on CALABARZON Farmers in Selected Communities present and future climate data, of CALABARZON, Philippines,” was engage the local stakeholders in With the threat of climate change implemented in collaboration with determining individual parameter on the social and ecological five selected municipalities/LGUs, for land capability modeling using aspect of food, there is a need to namely: Silang, Cavite; Nagcarlan, AHP, and validate land capability investigate the appropriate decision Laguna; Rosario, Batangas; Tanay, distribution models. In all of these support system (DSS) that would Rizal; and Sariaya, Quezon. activities, the participation of a enhance farmers’ resiliency to considerable number of farmer climate change impacts. The DSS Through the DSS project, the representatives from several is a tool in the zoning of land uses research team was able to collect barangays in each of the partner for better planning and for providing soil samples from the different LGUs is remarkable. The GIS- valuable insights to enhance the study sites, install hydrological based Agroforestry Land Capability effective implementation of the equipment, prioritize indicators Mapping Scheme (GIS-ALCAMS) was also developed, hence the “Guidebook on GIS-based ALCAMS.” The guidebook aims to equip the technical staff members of the LGUs, concerned government agencies, and other development institutions in assessing the land capability for agroforestry using GIS technology.

Results of the project provided practitioners and farm managers with early warning estimates of how different environmental factors, particularly climate will affect the land capability distribution. Moreover, these served as useful baseline information for decision-makers and planners in mainstreaming management, land use, and local action plans to help the farm managers and smallholder farmers design and develop a climate-resilient agroforestry farm. The 7-ha coffee-based (Robusta coffee) agroforestry farm in Brgy. Concepcion Banahaw, Sariaya, Quezon visited by DOST-PCAARRD.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 57 Smarter Approaches to phones by downloading the SARAI 20 days. Every month, the rainfall Reinvigorate Agriculture as an agricultural monitoring application. outlook for five succeeding months Industry in the Philippines (SARAI) is released in SARAI Knowledge Adaptive Planting Calendar (APC) Portal. Using this information, In response to the pressing for Rainfed Rice and Corn expected rainfall for the whole challenges brought about by duration of cropping season climate change, specifically to Shifting of planting dates as one of (i.e., 4–6 months) and water the agriculture sector, the SARAI the adaptation measures to climate required by the crops before program provided science-based change is widely practiced among cropping and during different advisories on different crops farmers. However, the effects growth stages is estimable. (rice, corn, banana, coffee, cacao, of climate change include less Planting advisories are uploaded coconut, sugarcane, tomato, predictable rainfall due to disturbed in the SARAI Knowledge Portal and soybean) in the country. rainfall patterns and weather (https://www.sarai.ph) quarterly. The program strengthened its variability. A systematic approach The expected yield given the technologies and extension efforts was devised in computing the advised planting dates can also by creating pathways to bring planting period, onset of flowering be simulated using crop models SARAI technologies to partners and maturity stages of crops, and with Decision-Support System for and farming communities. With harvest period. The computation Agro-technology Transfer (DSSAT). joint efforts from SUCs and several for planting date is based on the Different planting windows will give NGAs all over the country, SARAI required amount of water absorbed farmers more options in scheduling was able to develop and improve by the crop for a specific number of their cropping season by making various technologies and systems days. For rice to have a reasonable room to consider other factors, which are now being deployed yield, it needs at least 200 mm of such as rental of production nationwide. water in 30 days while corn needs materials and availability of at least 100 mm of water in production inputs. SARAI Knowledge Portal: One- stop-shop for SARAI Services and Products

The SARAI Knowledge Portal, which can be accessed at www. sarai.ph, offers a wide range of agricultural services on web and mobile platforms for its priority crops: rice, corn, banana, coconut, coffee, cacao, sugarcane, tomato, and soybean. Users of the portal can use the different applications in the portal as the basis of their farm SARAI Knowledge Portal. management and decision-making. Applications in the portal can be divided into four categories: farm management solutions, monitoring and decision support systems, geographic information system, and mobile applications. In 2020, the number of users and new users of the portal increased. A total of 9,848 users visited the portal with 9,764 recorded as new users. Since there is a need for wider dissemination of the SARAI outputs, users can now access the SARAI SARAI APC. Knowledge Portal on their mobile

58 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Agricultural Drought Monitoring Coffee Application Harvest Date Optimal Geographic Insurance and Forecasting System Using Estimator (CAPHE): Harvest Date Units (GIU) for Weather Index- Remote Sensing Technology Estimator for Better Coffee Quality based Crop Insurance (WIBI) in the Philippines The Drought and Crop Assessment Harvesting cherries at the right and Forecasting (DCAF) utilizes maturity produces better-tasting WIBI allows farmers to get technologies like satellite coffee. Through SARAI Program, a compensation for yield losses imageries, global positioning mobile application named CAPHE caused by very little or excessive system (GPS), climate models, was developed. This mobile app rainfall, based on scientific data and other geospatial tools to forecasts the best harvest date instead of field inspection reports. mitigate the effects of drought in of Robusta, Arabica, Liberica, and SARAI established the most the Philippines. It uses multiple Excelsa coffee varieties based efficient geographic insurance units drought indices, including the on the local temperature forecast (GIUs) or locations with similar risk localized agricultural drought and the coffee phenological profiles. Based on various criteria index and Standardized Vegetation data. CAPHE can also be used and analyses of synthetically Temperature Ratio (STVR). This for scheduled farming practice generated and validated rainfall drought index describes different advisories that are based on the data from 2010 to 2050, the project drought characteristics, such as stages of coffee fruit development. defined a total of 12 GIUs in Isabela, drought duration, severity, and Once CAPHE App is downloaded 7 in Iloilo, and 5 in Bukidnon. The extent. During the weak El Niño to a mobile phone, it can already GIUs are intended to minimize risk event in 2018–2019, the DCAF be used anywhere even without and thus reduce the premium for project was able to describe internet connectivity. The the insurance product. By defining the development of drought at application is still being field-tested GIUs for WIBI, the insurance a country scale using multiple in different areas of the country and products will have high potential drought indices. Monthly maps of being fine-tuned to ensure accuracy in effectively helping farmers cope rainfall, temperature, vegetation, and ease of use before launching it with and eventually manage climate and drought indices were utilized to the public. risks. to investigate the drought development.

DCAF dashboard.

CAPHE application.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 59 ET-based WAISS were installed for field testing and validation. The performance of the WAISS field unit is currently being tested in comparison with commercially available soil moisture sensors with a data logger.

Enhanced Operation and Connectivity of Automatic Weather Station (AWS) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) Units for Crop-environment Monitoring and Forecasting

Before farmers can adjust the amount of irrigation and fertilizer application levels, they must first understand the seasonal variations in precipitation and temperature values in their farms. The SARAI program uses AWS in monitoring these parameters. It contributes to a better understanding and eventually helps in the management of the risks related to weather. Similarly, SARAI uses UAV or drones for aerial monitoring of crop growth and health. Together with a multispectral camera, drones can provide spectral images as well as measurements, such as Normalized Differential Vegetation Index (NDVI) to gauge crop health, growth stages, and extent of pest and disease damages. Since 2015, SARAI has installed 20 AWS in experimental farms throughout the Philippines and trained personnel from different SUCs and government agencies on AWS installation and maintenance. Each Water Advisory for Irrigation methods: the soil moisture-based SARAI site is capable of providing Scheduling System (WAISS) and the evapotranspiration-based reliable real-time weather data, (ET-based) irrigation scheduling short-term weather forecasts, and WAISS is a smart monitoring and method. Moreover, it incorporates advisories to the local farmers. It decision platform that can provide climatic data, soil characteristics, can also provide historical data that farmers with an efficient approach crop type, and farm management researchers can use for different for crop irrigation. It promotes strategies in analyzing irrigation studies, such as crop modeling to the practice of smart irrigation requirements and scheduling. A simulate crop development, growth, by applying the right amount of demo site has been established yield, water, and nutrient uptake, or water to crops at the right time in UPLB for drip-irrigated corn in creating forecast algorithms. and place. WAISS uses two where soil moisture-based and

60 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report WAISS field unit. SARAI AWS in Cebu Technological University.

Time series of five year precipitation and temperature data of SARAI AWS in UPLB-IPB.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 61 Disaster Risk Reduction and Mitigation

Coastal Acidification

Coastal acidification is the localized acidification of coastal waters resulting from eutrophication (as seen in Bolinao, Pangasinan) and volcanic vents in Mabini, Batangas). Its effects on seawater carbonate chemistry, marine organisms, communities, and populations are examined to provide insights on how acidification as a stressor threatens food security, as well as ecological and environmental stability. pH and Aragonite Maps Water sampling for nutrients, chlorophyll, and carbonate parameters in Bolinao, Pangasinan. Variation in carbonate and other environmental parameters across a gradient of influence from acidification and over time was examined and the baseline data on pH and aragonite saturation state Ω (used to track acidification) from 59 coastal waters and seas in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao were compiled and presented as pH and Ω maps. This baseline information is important as a basis to compare future changes in acidity and to identify potentially vulnerable areas in the country. In general, sites with acidic waters are affected Coral coring using the hydraulic power pack drill system. by eutrophication and other man- made disturbances, such as discharge from resorts and mining companies. Coral cores were used to follow the physico-chemical variations across sites and samples and over time. Variability in linear extension rate was seen in the coral cores.

Changes in Planktons and Microbes Biomass

The program tries to understand the impact of acidification on the tiny plankton and even smaller Dry-run of mesocosm experiment in Bolinao, Pangasinan using a fabricated microbes at the base of the mesocosm setup unit.

62 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report marine food web. Changes in their biomass and types can influence larger organisms that rely on them for food and interact with them in other ways. Microscopic analyses of samples from Batangas highlights the differences in density of phytoplankton forms at small spatial scales, which points out the patchy distribution characteristic of these microorganisms. Phytoplankton abundance and distribution seem to be influenced Sample collection for an ocean acidification microcosm experiment in Lucero, more by nutrients than low pH Bolinao, Pangasinan (left) and the samples cultured in the laboratory and levels. A total of 43 bacterial groups subjected to various pH treatments (right). were identified up to the class level using molecular techniques (16S rDNA primer). Initial results of the phytoplankton culture experiments suggest an onset of acidification effects on both monocultures and mixed cultures, but potentially recovered in abundance towards the end.

Effects on Benthic Communities (Including Biofilm, Microbes, Calcifying Macroalgae, Giant Clams, Sponges, and Sea Cucumbers)

To understand the effects of acidification and related stressors on reef benthic communities, a Monitoring of seawater chemistry and health of juvenile giant clam T. gigas combination of laboratory and subjected to different temperature and pH treatments simulating ocean future field experiments is conducted conditions. to understand the responses of different organisms to acidification. Results from experiments showed Impacts on Demography same reefs. The fieldwork surveys the negative impact of future in Lian, Batangas in July 2020 scenarios of ocean warming and The program investigates the captured coral bleaching (30– acidification. Specifically, fish farm impacts of acidification on the 31oC water temperature), which effluent, which is eutrophic and demography (i.e., the growth, coincided with reports of bleaching acidic, can alter the eukaryotic death, and reproductive rates) of in other areas in the Philippines. microbial community crucial for populations of reef-building corals. All growth forms of corals were coral settlement. It was also found It then compares these impacts affected by bleaching. Statistical that either lowering the pH or to those of ocean warming and and demographic models continue elevating the temperature enhances human activities. Data on the to be developed from image grazing activity. Ex situ experiment corals’ demographic rates are data. Preliminary conceptual also revealed that warming and then fed into simulation models to and scenario-building models acidification shifted the microbial project possible impacts of various were initiated by estimating the community of sponge that can environmental stressors into the relative threat level of stressors result in an imbalance of the future, which are validated against (sedimentation, eutrophication, association between sponge and its long-term monitoring data from the acidification, upwelling, warming). microbiota.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 63 Survey and collection of sponge species in a reef A researcher captures images of Water sampling right above the area adjacent to CO2 vents in Mabini, Batangas. a fixed quadrat using tetrapod to vent in Tingloy, Batangas using a track corals over time. syringe.

Iodine-129 as a Tool for Nuclear Activities Detection

The Fukushima Project determined the impacts of past nuclear activities in the Philippines by analyzing radionuclide Iodine-129 in corals and seawater samples from various locations in the country. Analysis of coral cores from Baler, Aurora and Vinzons, Camarines Norte revealed that radionuclide contaminants from nuclear bomb testing in the Pacific in the 1950s to 1960s, as well as from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Accident in 2011, may have already reached the coasts of the Philippines. Further, results on the analysis of 79 seawater samples from around the Philippines also showed that Iodine-129 levels in the West Philippine Sea area are higher than the rest of the country. Thus, results demonstrated that Iodine-129 can be a powerful tool to detect the presence of nuclear activities, understand ocean currents and processes that transport the radionuclides, and provide useful information should Coral sampling in Vinzons with PCAARRD collaborators from the University of the similar incidents happen in the Philippines Diliman-Marine Science Institute (UPD-MSI). Footage of drilling the future. coral core from one of the coral targets identified before the actual sampling.

64 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Offshore Coral Reef Stabilization Technology

Historical data on Apo Reef Natural Park (ARNP), Occidental Mindoro marks periods of reef- wide destruction brought about by the Crown of Thorns (Acanthaster planci) outbreak followed by high- intensity storms. Damage was severe and extensive, causing Researcher preparing for solvent Analyzing Vinzons' coral slabs using the hard coral cover to drop extraction of Baler coral samples. 3D-XCT in collaboration with DOST- significantly, resulting in the decline ITDI. of surface complexity across the entire reef complex. It is clear from this experience that protection alone from extractive activities is not sufficient to maintain the health of the reef complex. Dynamic management and assisted rehabilitation strategies should also be implemented in ARNP to assist recovery.

Through close cooperation with the ARNP-Protected Area Management Office (ARNP-PAMO) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources (MENRO) of Sablayan, Dr. V.S. Ticzon, the Project leader, during the training on reef fish size estimation for ARNP-PAMO and MENRO-Sablayan participants (September 2020). capacity building activities, ecological surveys, and substrate stabilization activities were conducted. Substrate stabilization setups were exposed to strong wave energy generated by three consecutive typhoons that hit ARNP from October to November 2020. Despite its exposure to consecutive high energy events, partial binding of coral rubble was observed after three months which was facilitated by different benthic organisms that included sponges, hard corals, and coralline algae. Invertebrates were already found taking refuge in these bound substrates. The reefs of ARNP are in a poor state after Bound coral rubble fragments multiple natural disturbances hit the reef in observed in one of the substrate the latter part of 2019. Mean cover of dead stabilization setups. Juvenile corals with algae and rubble was generally Diadem was found sheltering high across monitored stations. between the spaces created by the aggregation while a sponge was found attached on its surface.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 65 Agenda 10: Strengthen Industry-Academe-Government and International STI Collaboration

Support to the Los Baños and participated in the virtual technologies/innovations from Science Community celebration of the annual other countries and learn their best Syensaya: The Los Baños Science practices and successful strategies The Los Baños Science Community Festival—the local activity in in the AANR sector that could be through the Los Baños Science celebration of the NSTW, which adopted/adapted in the Philippines. Community Foundation, Inc. showcases S&T exhibits of the GTIS missions on smart agriculture (LBSCFI), a non-stock, non- member-agencies (Wonderama) technologies, ecological mangrove p r o fi t o r g a n i z a t i o n c o m p o s e d o f and features a Techno-forum restoration technology, Clarias 23 member agencies from where issues affecting the local macrocephalus (broadhead catfish) within the Los Baños Community community are addressed through propagation, and big data tools continued to get administrative S&T interventions. Also, the and applications for AANR were and financial support from Council facilitates the evaluation proposed to be conducted in 2020. DOST-PCAARRD. As a member of R&D papers submitted for the However, these were not pursued of the foundation, the Council different awards being conferred due to restrictions on international continuously supports its programs by the Foundation. For 2020, the travel. and activities through its various Youth Science Award was given sectoral committees. LBSCFI to deserving senior high school Despite the challenges, DOST- continues to facilitate the transfer students. PCAARRD was able to explore and adoption of S&T research new partnerships and strengthen outputs and services generated by International S&T Collaboration its existing international its member-agencies to clients and collaborations. To maximize users through various projects. The COVID-19 pandemic affected opportunities in STI with most of the international activities international and non-traditional The Council plays a significant of DOST-PCAARRD, particularly the partners, the Council, through DOST, role in the activities of LBSCFI, Global Technology and Information proposed areas for cooperation serving as Secretariat of the Search (GTIS) activities and the with France, Germany, India, Foundation and leads the LBSCFI International Visitors Program. Indonesia, Iran, Italy, and the United information committee. In 2020, Kingdom. Moreover, the MOU with the activities of the Foundation The GTIS provides opportunities the Thailand-based AIT was signed were hampered by the pandemic. for the DOST-PCAARRD staff/ on September 28, 2020. The Council However, the Council continued ISP managers and NAARRDN also continued the implementation to provide technical support to researchers to explore new of projects and activities with

2020 virtual Syensaya. Presentation of Chairwoman Filomena Cinco during the Syensaya 2020 Technoforum.

66 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report its bilateral partners (ACIAR, CIP, (OED-RD) on the best practices in The MOU was signed by DOST- FFTC) and multilateral partners S&T administration for improved PCAARRD’s Executive Director (APAARI, APO, CORRA), and those resource management and Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, and AIT’s under DOST-led partnerships (JSPS, utilization. President Dr. Eden Y. Woon. DOST- MECO-TECO, MOST-China, ASEAN, PCAARRD and AIT are now working e-ASIA). DOST-PCAARRD and AIT agreed on the details of the cooperation to implement joint R&D projects, work plan focusing on priority areas To overcome the limitations capacity building activities that include agricultural systems due to international travel (exchange of researchers, and engineering, aquaculture and restrictions, DOST-PCAARRD faculty, and scholars), and joint aquatic resources management, tapped opportunities for its trainings, conferences, symposia, natural resources management, staff and researchers in the workshops; exchange IEC materials development and sustainability, regions to participate in online/ and scientific and technical environmental engineering and virtual international fellowships, publications; and participate in management, climate change, e-mentoring, trainings, seminars, scientific seminars, workshops, sustainable development, and conferences, symposia, workshops, conferences, and symposia. nanotechnology. expert consultations, and fora. Thirty-three international activities were participated by DOST- PCAARRD staff and NAARRDN researchers.

DOST-PCAARRD, in cooperation with various international agencies, coordinated, implemented, and participated in a number of successful and notable programs, projects, and activities to provide better solutions to the various pressing problems in the AANR sector.

New Partnership

Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) Dr. Eden Y. Woon, AIT President, signed the PCAARRD-AIT MOU on September 3, 2020 in Pathum Thani, Thailand. With the goal to intensify its partnership and collaboration with international agencies, DOST-PCAARRD inked an MOU with the Thailand-based AIT on September 28, 2020.

The new collaboration with AIT is an output of the GTIS/Benchmarking activity of Dr. Melvin B. Carlos, DOST PCAARRD Deputy Executive Director for Administration, Resource Management and Support Services (OED-ARMSS), and Dr. Procy B. Sobreviñas, Supervising Science Research Specialist of the Office of the Executive Director Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, PCAARRD Executive Director, signed the PCAARRD-AIT for Research and Development MOU on September 28, 2020 in Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 67 Strengthened Existing Partnerships: Bilateral

Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR)

Considering Dr. Ebora’s role and contribution in the AANR sector as DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director, the Australian Government, through Hon. Marise Payne, Minister for Foreign Affairs, appointed Dr. Ebora as a member of the Policy Advisory Council (PAC) of ACIAR for 3 years effective July 17, 2020.

The ACIAR PAC plays a key role in PCAARRD Executive Director Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora. the planning and implementation of ACIAR’s international agricultural 2020, namely: "HORT/2018/192: An where gender equality drives research portfolio. It also provides Integrated Management Response transformation towards equitable, advice to Australia’s Foreign to the Spread of Fusarium wilt sustainable, and productive climate- Minister on problems in the of Banana in Southeast Asia," resilient seed systems. agriculture sector of developing "CS/2020/145: Assessment of Food countries and on the appropriate System Security, Resilience and The webinar on “Regional policies and programs to address Emerging Risks in the Indo-Pacific Cooperation for Building Resilient the problems. in the context of COVID-19: Seed System in the Philippines,” Stage 2," and "LS/2019/187: on the other hand, was held on Being a member of the ACIAR PAC, Developing a Regional African October 7, 2020 to discuss Dr. Ebora will have the opportunity Swine Fever Socioeconomic and the need, scope, benefits, and to ensure that concerns of the Livelihood Impact Analysis Fund." challenges of regional seed Philippine AANR sector will be Technical expertise was also cooperation in developing a considered in the agricultural provided by DOST-PCAARRD in climate-resilient seed system in the research portfolio of ACIAR to the new project, "AGB/2020/120: Philippines. The discussion focused consequently benefit our country’s Philippines Smallholder Dairy: on the challenges faced by the research agencies, universities, Landscape Analysis and Research seed sector amidst climate change, farmers’ organizations, and Priorities. expected impacts of the Philippines other stakeholders in the private joining the regional cooperation sector. It will also be a good International Potato Center (CIP) in seed sector, and potential venue for Dr. Ebora to share the challenges for joining the regional Philippines’ experience and learn DOST-PCAARRD co-organized cooperation. from Australia’s best practices in two webinars with CIP, one on addressing agricultural issues and “Role of Women in Developing a Food and Fertilizer Technology opportunities faced by smallholder Climate Smart Seed System in Center for the Asian and Pacific farmers and fisherfolk. the Philippines” and the other on Region (FFTC) “Regional Cooperation for Building DOST-PCAARRD and ACIAR Resilient Seed System in the Dr. Ebora attended the 25th FFTC have been strong partners for Philippines.” Technical Advisory Committee more than 37 years in terms of (TAC) Meeting last July 21, 2020 via agricultural R&D and in promoting The webinar on “Role of Women teleconferencing. R&D to advance agricultural in Developing a Climate Smart competitiveness. Aside from Seed System in the Philippines,” FFTC’s TAC is composed of coordinating the implementation held on August 19, 2020, aimed to 11 leading agricultural scientists/ of ongoing projects under the contribute to developing a policy experts in the Asia-Pacific (ASPAC) PCAARRD-ACIAR partnership, new environment in the Philippines region. These experts review projects were also implemented in

68 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Speakers and moderators during the webinar on “Role of Women Speakers and moderators during the webinar on in Developing a Climate Smart Seed System in the Philippines” “Regional Cooperation for Building Resilient Seed System held on August 19, 2020. in the Philippines” held on October 7, 2020. and provide advice on FFTC’s Mycoplasma bovis.” The research international partners, focusing on policy, program, and themes in focuses on the development of a capacity building. The work plans the formulation, implementation, fast and easy detection tool for will be negotiated with the three and evaluation of FFTC’s working diagnosing Paratuberculosis and agencies in 2021. programs and activities; deliberate Bovine mycoplasmosis with the use on the priorities of agricultural of nanotechnology. Said project will Strengthened Existing needs and requirements of be funded by DOST in 2021 with Partnerships: Multilateral countries in the region; and DOST-PCAARRD as a monitoring recommend the suitable directions agency. Asia-Pacific Association and strategies to improve the of Agricultural Research performance and effectiveness of Manila Economic and Cultural Institutions (APAARI) FFTC’s operation. Office-Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (MECO-TECO) The Council sent seven researchers During the meeting, Dr. Ebora from the NAARRDN and two DOST- also provided updates on the DOST-PCAARRD coordinated and PCAARRD staff to participate, as seminar-workshop on "Harnessing monitored the implementation of resource persons, observers, and the Economic and Socio-cultural two MECO-TECO projects, which participants in various APAARI- Opportunities of Farm Tourism,” were approved for funding in sponsored/organized activities which will be held in May 2021 at 2020. These are “Development of on knowledge management, DPITC, Los Baños, Laguna. AIoT Technologies for Smarter circular agriculture, regional expert Dr. Ebora further shared the Farm Management” of UPLB consultation on agriculturally "GALING-PCAARRD Kontra and “APPLex: Automated Pest important microorganisms, COVID-19 Program" during the TAC Identification and Parasitism Level biotechnological tools in aquatic meeting. Estimator” of DLSU. genetic resource management, and Crawford fund e-Mentoring In terms of capacity building, four These projects were jointly Program. Other APAARI-organized NAARRDN researchers and one approved by the Chinese Taipei’s webinars were also participated DOST-PCAARRD official participated Ministry of Science and Technology in by interested NAARRDN as resource speakers and observers and the Philippines’ DOST. researchers and DOST-PCAARRD in various virtual/online activities staff. organized by FFTC. Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute Moreover, two DOST-PCAARRD Japan Society for the Promotion (MARDI), Rural Development articles “Addressing food of Science (JSPS) Administration (RDA), International security and providing livelihood Center for Tropical Agriculture opportunities through GALING- DOST and JSPS jointly approved the (CIAT) PCAARRD Program” and proposal of DA-Philippine Carabao “Developing agribusinesses from Center (PCC) on "Development of To implement the MOUs signed R&D in the country through DOST- a Pen-side Nanosensor Diagnostic with CIAT, MARDI, and RDA, DOST- PCAARRD program” were published tool for Mycobacterium avium PCAARRD drafted the work plans in the semi-annual APAARI subsp. Paratuberculosis and of cooperation with the said Newsletter.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 69 Council for Partnerships on Rice hosted by Thailand’s National completed in September 2021. Research in Asia (CORRA) Center for Genetic Engineering and The new project was proposed Biotechnology. As a member, considering the interest of CLM Dr. Ebora and Dr. Edna A. Anit, Dr. Ebora is expected to oversee in sending more scholars to Director of the Crops Research and provide guidance to the the Philippines as conveyed Division (CRD), represented the operations of the Center, as well during the 10th Informal ASEAN Philippines through DOST-PCAARRD as assist in linking the Center with Ministerial Meeting on Science and in the 24th CORRA Annual Meeting other international organizations Technology (IAMMST-10) held last held on November 20, 2020 via as strategic alliances for research October 19, 2019 in Cebu City. teleconferencing. Said meeting and capacity-building activities. brought together the senior officials Also, he is currently the Philippine East Asia Science and Innovation and representatives of National focal point for the Sub-Committee Area (e-ASIA) Agricultural Research and Extension on Biotechnology (SCB) under the Systems (NARES) of major rice- ASEAN-Committee on Science, Engr. Eduardo V. Manalili, Director producing and consuming countries Technology, and Innovation of Inland Aquatic Resources to assess, discuss, and agree on (COSTI). Research Division (IARRD), and collaborative actions and initiatives Dr. Synan S. Baguio, Director of regarding principal issues and DOST has also been offering Livestock Research Division (LRD), challenges facing the Asian and scholarship and training programs represented DOST-PCAARRD global rice industry. Discussed to ASEAN researchers, especially in various online meetings in during the meeting were the for Cambodia, Lao PDR, and preparation for the e-ASIA Annual rice-based agriculture research Myanmar (CLM) since 2017. The Board Meeting in September 2020. initiatives of CORRA member- DOST-PCAARRD-monitored project, Discussed during the meetings countries, the latest developments “Scholarship Offerings for ASEAN were the topics and schedule for in genetic modification and gene Researchers (Cambodia, Lao PDR, the 10th Call for Proposals for the editing technologies for rice and and Myanmar),” aims to promote e-ASIA Joint Research Program other crops, and updates on the human resource development (JRP) and the projects to be One CGIAR governance reforms and in engineering and sciences awarded from 9th Call. IRRI partnership with AfricaRice. for sustainable socioeconomic development of the ASEAN region DOST-PCAARRD also facilitated the The main output of the meeting was particularly in CLM. Implemented approval and funding of two e-ASIA the final 2020 CORRA Declaration by the DOST-Science Education JRP projects from the Philippines: which stipulates CORRA's Institute (SEI), the said project has “Assessment on Genetic Diversity commitments and plan of action. supported a total of 26 scholars and Reproductive Biology of As co-organizer of the annual (21 MS and 5 PhD). Two scholars Carangid Fishes for Sustainable meeting with the International from Myanmar already graduated Use and Conservation” of UPD for Rice Research Institute (IRRI), the in 2020—Mr. Mo Thant Kyaw from the 8th Call and “Integration of Council endorsed the 2020 CORRA UPLB, MS Environmental Science Traditional and Modern Bioproducts Declaration to the One Consultative and Mr. Tun Tun Oo from DLSU, Systems for a Sustainable and Group on International Agricultural MS Electronics and Resilient Future Under Climate Research (CGIAR) System Council Communications Engineering Ecosystem Changes (ITMoB)” of Chair and the One CGIAR Executive program. The other partner UPLB for the 9th Call. Management Team requesting universities for the project are UPD to use the CORRA platform in and University of the Philippines Japan Science and Technology engaging with CGIAR in designing Manila (UPM). Agency (JST) United Kingdom the regional program in Asia. Research and Innovation (UKRI) In 2020, the project “Scholarship Association of Southeast Offerings for ASEAN Researchers With DOST as lead, DOST-PCAARRD Asian Nations (ASEAN) (Cambodia, Lao PDR, and released the call for proposals Myanmar)—Batch 2, Batch 3, and for the JST-UKRI-DOST ‘Science, DOST endorsed Dr. Ebora as Batch 4,” was approved for DOST Technology and Action’ Nexus a member of the Governing funding. This is a continuation of for Development (STAND). With Council of the ASEAN Centre the batch 1 project that started the aim to connect current and on Microbial Utilisation (ACMU) in September 2017 and will be recently funded projects focusing

70 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report on sustainable development in Southeast Asia, the proposals should focus on networking and partnership, building outreach and dissemination, and demonstration and pilot activities. Proposals to be approved by the Joint Panel Review will start implementation in 2021.

Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), China Beneficiaries of the “DOST Scholarship Offerings for ASEAN Researchers (Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar-CLM)” with DOST Assistant Secretary Leah DOST-PCAARRD facilitated the Buendia (8th from left), DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Dr. Reynaldo Ebora approval of the proposal, “The (7th from left), and DOST-SEI Director Dr. Josette Biyo (9th from left) at DOST, Belt and Road of Avian Infectious Bicutan, Taguig City during the Get Together of DOST, Partner-Universities and Diseases—Intervention Strategies Scholars held on January 22, 2020. (DOST-Science Education Institute) to Predict, Prevent, and Control Disease Outbreaks Caused by Emerging Strains of Newcastle Disease Viruses and Avian Influenza Viruses in Philippines and China,” under the DOST-MOST China Joint Research Program. As approved by DOST, the new project title is “Development of Intervention Strategies to Predict, Prevent, and Control Disease Outbreaks Caused by Emerging Strains of Newcastle Disease Viruses and Avian Influenza Viruses in the Philippines and Mr. Mo Thant Kyaw, from Myanmar, Mr. Tun Tun Oo, from Myanmar, China." Once approved by MOST graduated MS in Environmental Science graduated MS Electronics and China, the project will commence at UPLB. (DOST-SEI) communications Engineering at DLSU. implementation in 2021. (DOST-SEI)

Asian Productivity Asia-Pacific Economic Partnerships in the Works Organization (APO) Cooperation-Policy Partnership for Science, Technology and Jiangxi Academy of Forestry In view of the international travel Innovation (APEC-PPSTI) (JAF) and Jiangxi Academy of restrictions brought about by Agricultural Sciences (JxAAS)- COVID-19, most of the activities DOST-PCAARRD assisted DOST in China co-organized and co-sponsored the dissemination of the call for by APO were deferred for 2021. nominations to the APEC Young DOST-PCAARRD, JAF, and JxAAS Five nominees from the PCAARRD Scientist Training (APEC-YST) are currently on the final stage Consortia/NAARRDN were able Program, which will start in 2021. of negotiating the MOAs on the to participate in the various Said program aims to provide young "Establishment of Philippines- trainings and workshops that were physicists with career development China Joint Program on Bamboo conducted online by APO and its opportunities through Fellowship in Research" and the "Establishment co-organizers. The DOST-PCAARRD Korea and potential collaborations of Philippines-China Joint Program staff and other researchers in the with in-house senior academics. on Rice Technology." After getting region were also able to participate the concurrence of JAF and JxAAS in the APO-organized webinars on DOST-PCAARRD’s counterdraft related to COVID-19 and health. MOAs, the DOST will seek clearance

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 71 from the Department of Foreign Taiwan Agriculture Research partners, such as APAARI, APO, and Affairs (DFA) for the official signing. Institute (TARI) FFTC were conducted virtually. A total of 33 international fellowships, Michigan State University (MSU) With the expiration of the e-Mentoring, expert consultations, PCAARRD-TARI MOU in 2017, DOST- webinars, symposia, seminars, DOST-PCAARRD continued its PCAARRD has been following up trainings, workshops, fora were negotiation with MSU for the with Chinese Taipei’s TARI for the participated in by DOST-PCAARRD signing of its MOU, which covers renewal of the MOU, which includes staff and researchers from the the exchange of materials joint R&D and capacity building. As NAARRDN. These activities in research and education, earlier agreed, the said MOU will opened doors to enhance linkages, publications, and academic be subsumed under the DOST-led networking, and collaborative information; exchange of faculty, MECO-TECO partnership. activities with international researchers, and scholars; joint organizations including possible research and meetings for Capacity Building Activities resource generation that would education and research; and augment support to S&T and R&D technical assistance. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, programs, projects, and activities all activities organized/sponsored for the AANR sector. by DOST-PCAARRD’s international

Table 3. International S&T-related activities participated by DOST-PCAARRD staff and NAARRDN researchers, 2020.

Name of Participant/Agency Date of Activity/ Partner Agency Title of Activity Affiliation Venue

ACIAR Ms. Ma. Cecilia S. Alaban Meryl Williams Fellowship December 2020– DOST-PCAARRD May 2022 APAARI DOST-PCAARRD staff and Experiential Learning in Agriculture Education June 2, 2020 NAARRDN researchers Dir. Marita A. Carlos International Webinar: A Perspective on August 17, 2020 DOST-PCAARRD (as speaker) Capacity Building in Knowledge Management Development in Agricultural Sector DOST-PCAARRD staff and Nutri-Garden: Bridge Between Agriculture and September 5, 2020 NAARRDN researchers Nutrition

Ms. Abigail O. Retuta Crawford Fund e-Mentoring Program September 2020– DOST-PCAARRD August 2021

Dr. Darwin A. Basquial BSU Dr. Marilyn B. Brown Regional Expert Consultation on Agriculturally October 28, 2020 UPLB Important Microorganisms

Dr. Jocelyn T. Zarate UPLB

Dr. Nelly S. Aggangan UPLB

Dr. Jonar I. Yago NVSU Dr. Pearl B. Sanchez APAARI-FFTC International Symposium on the November 5–6, 2020 UPLB Practice and Benefits of Circular Agriculture in Waste Reducing and Recycling

72 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Table 3. (Continued) Name of Participant/Agency Date of Activity/ Partner Agency Title of Activity Affiliation Venue Ms. Angel Queenee D. Dequito Regional Capacity Building Programme December 7–18, UPLB onBiotechnological Tools in Aquatic 2020 Genetic Resource Management and Ex Situ Conservation DOST-PCAARRD staff and Regional Seminar on Agricultural Research December 11, 2020 NAARRDN researchers in Southeast Asia: Resource Allocation, Performance, and Impact on Productivity APO through DAP DOST-PCAARRD staff and Productivity Talk: How COVID-19 is Affecting May 26, 2020 NAARRDN researchers Rice-based Agrifood Systems Dr. Raquel M. Balanay Training of Trainers on Building Sustainable May 27, 2020 Caraga State University (CSU) Supply Chains for Agriculture (virtual) DOST-PCAARRD staff and Productivity Talk on Public Health and May 28, 2020 NAARRDN researchers Leadership in the Time of a Pandemic DOST-PCAARRD staff and Productivity Talk on COVID-19: Impact on Food June 4, 2020 NAARRDN researchers Supply Chains in Asia Dr. Wilfredo A. Dumale Workshop on Smart Resource Productivity November 16–18, NVSU Management 2020 Engr. Emmanuel Q. Amatorio Workshop on Advanced Postharvest December 1–3, 2020 UPLB Technology for Horticultural Crops Dr. Emma Ruth V. Bayogan Workshop on Advanced Postharvest December 1–3, 2020 University of the Philippines Technologies for Horticultural Crops Mindanao Engr. Ryan Anthony O. Lualhati Workshop on Advanced Postharvest December 1–3, 2020 UPLB Technologies for Horticultural Crops DOST-PCAARRD staff and Webinar on Innovation and Productivity December 14, 2020, NAARRDN researchers Initiatives in the Public Sector: COVID-19 Response in the Philippines FFTC Mr. Johnrell S. Zuniega 2020 Dragon Fruit Workshop September 22–23, UPLB 2020

Dr. Dormita R. Del Carmen UPLB Dr. John Platten FFTC-MARDI Workshop on Crop Resilience for September 29, 2020 IRRI Adaptation to Climate Change: Rice

Dr. Eduardo Jimmy P. Quilang DA-Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) DOST-PCAARRD staff and Symposium on the Practice and Benefits of November 5–6, 2020 NAARRDN researchers Circular Agriculture in Waste Reducing and Recycling Dr. Ernesto O. Brown Agricultural Policy Forum on Sustainable Agri- December 1–2, 2020 DOST-PCAARRD Food Systems Under and Beyond COVID-19 EURAXESS-India DOST-PCAARRD staff and Webinar on Horizon Europe—The Next October 15, 2020 NAARRDN researchers Research and Innovation Framework Programme of the European Union (EU) CGIAR DOST-PCAARRD staff and Genome Editing in Agriculture: lnnovations for September 22, 29 NAARRDN researchers Sustainable Production and Food Systems and October 6, 13, 20, 2020

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 73 Table 3. (Continued) Name of Participant/Agency Date of Activity/ Partner Agency Title of Activity Affiliation Venue Embassy of DOST-PCAARRD staff and CHED-EduCanada Webinar: Improving August 28, 2020 Canada in the NAARRDN researchers Agriculture through Education Delivery in the Philippines and New Normal the Dalhousie University- Agricultural Campus European DOST-PCAARRD staff and Webinar on Grants for Top Researchers from September 15, 2020 Research Council NAARRDN researchers Anywhere in the World Michigan State DOST-PCAARRD staff and Webinar on Extension, Community Outreach, June 25, 2020 University (MSU) NAARRDN researchers and Advisory Services Amid COVID-19 Pandemic DOST-PCAARRD staff and Webinar on the Impact of COVID-19 on Global August 27, 2020 NAARRDN researchers Agriculture Research Systems ASEAN DOST-PCAARRD staff and Webinar on Ensuring the Resilience and September 3, 2020 NAARRDN researchers Sustainability of the Agriculture and Food Sector in ASEAN in the Context of COVID-19 WorldFish DOST-PCAARRD staff and Fish Talk Nutrition Day Special with Focus on May 28, 2020 NAARRDN researchers COVID-19 Colombian DOST-PCAARRD staff and Webinar on Expanding South-South September 10–11, Presidential NAARRDN researchers Cooperation in an Interdependent World 2020 Agency of for the International Day for South-South International Cooperation 2020 Cooperation (APC-Colombia), and the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC) British Council DOST-PCAARRD staff and Webinar on Writing a Research Proposal for May 20, 2020 NAARRDN researchers International Collaboration CIP DOST-PCAARRD staff and Webinar on Role of Women in Developing a August 19, 2020 NAARRDN researchers Climate Smart Seed System in the Philippines DOST-PCAARRD staff and CIP-CCAFS-DOST-PCAARRD Webinar on October 7, 2020 NAARRDN researchers Regional Cooperation for Building Resilient Seed System in the Philippines JST DOST-PCAARRD staff and JST Connect 2020 Webinar on Bridging Science December 3, 2020 NAARRDN researchers and Society

International Visitors Program with six members from Papua New especially in areas related to Guinea (PNG) on January 20, 2020. aquaculture and aquatic resources. The International Visitors Program The delegation was headed by is DOST-PCAARRD’s opportunity to Hon. Minister of Parliament Ross Other Activities be recognized in the international Seymour. The purpose of their visit science and agriculture community. was to explore DOST-PCAARRD’s National Coconut Planting Day Since there are travel restrictions initiatives in AANR and policy related to the COVID-19 pandemic formulation. The visit would help DOST, through DOST-PCAARRD starting March 2020, the Council them in attaining their five-year in partnership with the DA-PCA, only welcomed one delegation, development plan for 2018–2022, launched three technologies on the

74 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report PNG delegates and PCAARRD officials during the briefing and meeting at the C.B.erez P Room, PCAARRD and visit at DPITC on January 20, 2020

DOST-PCAARRD ED Reynaldo V. Ebora UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose V. Camacho, Jr., DA Undersecretary Evelyn participated in the ceremonial coconut planting. G. Laviña, Former DA Undersecretary Cristino M. Collado, and National Scientist Emil Q. Javier also participated in the ceremonial coconut planting. production and planting of high- The synchronized planting was Administrator for R&D Erlene C. yielding coconut planting materials done in CALABARZON, Mindoro, Manohar, DOST-PCAARRD CRD during the National Coconut Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan Director Dr. Edna A. Anit, UPLB-IPB Planting Day held on December 8, (MIMAROPA), BARMM, Regions 1, 5, Director Dr. Rodel G. Maghirang, 2020. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13. UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose V. Camacho, Jr., and National Scientist As part of the DOST 20 in 2020, the A ceremonial coconut planting Emil Q. Javier. National Coconut Planting Day is was also held at UPLB-Institute of among the identified 20 innovative Plant Breeding (IPB). The varieties A virtual program was also technologies being funded by DOST planted were the PCA 15-10 hybrid conducted to officially kick off the and implemented by its partner (Tacunan Dwarf x Laguna Tall) National Coconut Planting Day with agencies and institutes that can and Laguna Tall produced through the theme, “Modern Technologies: make impacts in the lives of the CSet. The ceremony was attended Key to Coconut Productivity.” DOST Filipino people and can push the by DOST-PCAARRD ED Reynaldo Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña country to attain socioeconomic V. Ebora, PCA Administrator delivered a message, as well as growth and development. Benjamin R. Madrigal, Jr., DOST DA Undersecretary Laviña on behalf CALABARZON Regional Director of DA Secretary William D. Dar. The The event featured the coconut Alexander R. Madrigal, DA keynote message was delivered by hybridization program, ‘macapuno’ Undersecretary Evelyn G. Laviña, Senate Committee Chairperson on embryo culture technology, and Former DA Undersecretary Cristino Agriculture and Food Hon. Senator CSet. M. Collado, DA-PCA Deputy Cynthia A. Villar.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 75 Agenda 11: Enhance Effectiveness of STI Governance

Human Resource Management In 2020, it has carried out the and re-appointment. It has also recruitment and selection facilitated the engagement of a Despite the pandemic, the Council of applicants and issuance service provider for the institutional has successfully performed its processing of 33 appointments, contract of service of 93 staff to be core human resource management such as promotion - 19; original implemented in January 2021. functions through online means, appointment - 10; transfer - 3 aside from the normal practice.

DOST-PCAARRD personnel profile, 2020. DOST-PCAARRD personnel highest educational attainment (regular staff), 2020.

Personnel with Completed Graduate Studies

In 2020, five staff have completed their graduate studies.

(From left) Analiza C. Diaz (Master of Science in Climate Change and Sustainable Development, AIT), Gabriel Paolo L. Peralta (Master in Development Management and Governance, UPLB), Paul Jersey G. Leron (Doctor of Philosophy in Development Studies, UPLB), Rommel V. Visperas (Master in Public Management Technology-based Enterprise Development, Ateneo de Manila University [ADMU]), Ariane Shane DC. Catelo (Master in Management, Laguna College of Business and Arts [LCBA]).

76 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Personnel with Ongoing Graduate Studies (2020)

A total of 28 DOST-PCAARRD staff are pursuing graduate studies (14 PhD and 14 MS). Six employees are newly enrolled in 2020.

Table 4. DOST-PCAARRD staff who pursued graduate studies in 2020. Name Degree/Specialization University Source of Fund Glenda P. Fule Master of Management in Agribusiness UPLB DOST-HRDP Management and Entrepreneurship Rundolfo P. Llamas Master of Science in Animal Science major UPLB DOST-HRDP in Ruminant Nutrition Katrina Marie V. Mananghaya Master of Science in Development UPLB DOST-HRDP Communication El Vic R. Madrigal Master in Development Management UPLB DOST-HRDP and Governance Rick Adrian A. Mulimbayan Master of Science in Information DLSU DOST-HRDP Technology Diana Rose P. Cabello PhD in Development Studies UPLB DOST-HRDP

Non-degree Trainings Participated Table 5. Non-degree trainings participated by DOST-PCAARRD personnel. by DOST-PCAARRD Personnel No. Training Title 1 Series of Workshops of Photoworld Asia (Federation of Philippine DOST-PCAARRD ensures that staff Photographers Foundation, Inc.) - January 31–February 2, 2020 competence is enhanced through 2 Business Intelligence and Analytics Certification Course - participation in various trainings, February 11–13, February 26–28, 2020 seminars, and workshops. Six DOST-PCAARRD staff participated 3 Strategic Decision Making - March 12, 2020, September 16–17, 2020 in the following non-degree 4 Online Training on Managing Employee Mental Health and Well-Being - trainings charged against the July 22–24, 2020 DOST-PCAARRD Human Resource 5 Masterclass on Human Resources Analytics - September 16–18, 2020 Development Fund for the 6 Mental Health First Aid - November 10–11, 2020 Secretariat.

Furthermore, the DOST-PCAARRD PRAISE Manual has been approved by the CSC on March 12, 2020 and has been implemented during the year. Thus, the first virtual Rewards and Recognition Ceremony was held on December 21, 2020. It has given 50 different awards with plaques and cash incentives.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 77 Staff Awards

Loyalty Award

Granted to employees who have continuously and satisfactorily served DOST-PCAARRD for at least 10 years. Tin Award (10 years in service)

(From left) Marita A. Carlos, Genny G. Bandoles, Jayvee S. Bautista, Ronilo O. de Castro, Paul Jersey G. Leron, Allan B. Siano, Maria Lea Preciosa E. Balita, Precious D. Libit, Jonathan P. Penalosa

Crystal Award (15 years in service)

(From left) Romeo P. Santiago, Christie A. Surara, Eugene S. Manalang

Platinum Award (20 years in service)

Ruel S. Pagcaliwagan

Silver Award (25 years in service)

(From left) Cynthia V. Almazan, Adelaida T. Calpe, Imelda L. Tandang, Ma. Lea V. Delos Reyes

Pearl Award (30 years in service)

(From left) Maria Theresa T. Bautista, Juanito T. Batalon, Ernesto O. Brown, Ofelia F. Domingo, Susan S. Molina, Eric E. Perez, Dolores N. Suarez

Jade Award (35 years in service)

(From left) Adoracion B. Armada, Andre L. Acedera, Roscelia M. Lambio, Glenda P. Lantacon, Edna R. Lontoc

Ruby Award (40 years in service)

(From left) Felicidad E. Bautista, Delia M. Magtulis

78 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report PCAARRD Recognition Award Management Excellence

Award given to deserving employees to recognize and reward their exemplary performance, valuable contributions, and ethical conduct/behavior, among other factors.

Noel A. Catibog Supervising Science Research Specialist/OIC (TTPD) 1st Runner-up 2nd Runner-up

Marita A. Carlos Lilian G. Bondoc Chief Science Research Specialist (ACD) Chief Science Research Specialist (PCMD) Outstanding Technical Senior Outstanding Administrative Senior

Ma. Theresa T. Bautista Susan S. Molina Supervising Science Research Specialist (PCMD) Supervising Administrative Officer (OIC-FAD) 1st Runner-up 2nd Runner-up 1st Runner-up 2nd Runner-up

Nimfa K. Torreta Mia Barbara D. Aranas Adelina S. Jimenez Anna Cristina R. Samonte Supervising Science Research Senior Science Research Administrative Officer V (FAD) Administrative Officer V (OED-RD) Specialist (FERD) Specialist (SERD) Outstanding Technical Junior Outstanding Junior Administrative/Non-supervisory Staff

Sharie Al-faiha A. Lubang Leandro C. Lameyra Science Research Specialist II (CRD) Administrative Assistant III (OED-RD) 1st Runner-up 2nd Runner-up 1st Runner-up 1st Runner-up

Annette M. Tobias Cyrill S. Estimado Abegail Grace M. Maralit Georgia M. Lawas Science Research Science Research Accountant III (FAD) Administrative Officer IV (FAD) Specialist II (SERD) Specialist I (PCMD) 2nd Runner-up

Maria Ester Catalina V. Lajara Administrative Officer II (FAD) Special Creativity Award

Awarded for his creativity and dedication to excellence in his more than 3 decades of public service at DOST-PCAARRD.

Laureano U. Reyes ACD Retirees

Mandatory

Felisa E. Ocampo Aurelio B. San Valentin IDD FAD-GSS 43 years 18 years

Optional

Celia M. Bueta Corazon P. Salud Demetrio M. Cinco Laureano U. Reyes Carolina T. Bosque FAD-Records FAD-Property FAD ACD FAD-Accounting 38 years 38 years 36 years 29 years 23 years

Exemplary Service Award (posthumous) In recognition of DOST-PCAARRD staff who passed away in 2020.

Flordeliza R. Gutierrez Rolando S. Corpuz Rodelo A. Dimasapit Andre L. Acedera

80 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Employee Welfare Regular disinfection of the whole Increased Benefits to Filipinos DOST-PCAARRD Complex is being from Science Knowhow and Tools While the pandemic caused by conducted every Friday, and if the for Agricultural Productivity in the the new coronavirus has posed a need arises. AANR Sector." DOST-PCAARRD significant effect on the operations released funds totaling P1.033 B of all offices, even when on skeletal Financial Resources Management to various implementing agencies workforce setup, the Council was nationwide to support priority R&D able to procure all supplies used for DOST-PCAARRD managed a total of and capacity building projects. The health protocols in the office (e.g., P1.349 billion (B) budget in 2020, remaining unused appropriations facemasks, face shields, alcohol, broken down into P1.134 B were forwarded as continuing half shoes, tent for the incoming for Current Appropriation and appropriation, which is valid for vehicle tire disinfectant). It was P215 M for Continuing obligation until December 31, 2021 still able to comply with all the Appropriation. Of this amount, pursuant to RA No. 11520. requirements of the Government P10.785 M were additional Procurement Policy Board (GPPB). allotment from DBM for salary DOST-PCAARRD utilized adjustments and authorized P1.125 B cash allocation during The Council had likewise employer’s share on retirement the year covering the payment of formulated policy guidelines in insurance. current and prior years’ obligations. observance of the minimum health The total disbursements covered protocols including but not limited The current year and prior year 88% of the total obligations. The to the guidelines on the use of appropriations were duly obligated cash allocation was carefully prescribed footwear, arrangement in to programmed projects and managed to ensure that all priority purchasing food from the canteen, activities and reached fund expenditures were settled. and in accepting visitors. In the utilization rate of 94% and same manner, a sanitation area 96%, respectively or a total of In addition to the annual (including foot bath, wash area, 95%. A big chunk of the budget appropriations, the Council alcohol dispensers, designated amounting to P1.175 B or 92% managed a total of P119.735 M racks, and individual footwear went to support the National funds held in trust received from exclusive within the office) was AANR Sector R&D Program, which local sources to support and provided to employees and visitors. contributed to the attainment of monitor projects and activities. the "Organizational Outcome: This amount consists of

Face masks and face shields were distributed to the staff, while a washing area and slipper racks were also installed.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 81 P21.599 M remaining balance from DOST-PCAARRD envisions a Continual Improvement 2019 and P98.136 M generated in brighter 2021 with P1.449 B budget 2020. Of the total trust receipts, or a 17% increase from ISO Certification P58.767 M or 49% were utilized CY 2020 budget, covering during the year with P46.125 M or P1.125 B to support GIA projects In 2020, a total of four Quality 78% spent for R&D activities. The and activities. Management System (QMS) unexpended portion of the fund will Processes and eight QMS Forms be used to sustain ongoing projects Resources Generated were revised. Furthermore, a total and activities in 2021. of seven new QMS forms were For 2020, DOST-PCAARRD registered. Financial monitoring and generated about P502,091,505.07 evaluation activities, as well as from external sources, accounting Despite the threats posed by Financial Management Webinar both in cash and in kind. A total of natural disasters and health Series were conducted with the P478,204,743.10 was generated pandemic to DOST-PCAARRD’s implementing agencies and from local sources, while the management system, the Council members of the regional consortia remaining P23,886,761.97 from was able to maintain its ISO for the immediate liquidation of GIA international sources. 9001:2015 QMS Certification releases. after successfully satisfying all the needed requirements set by SOCOTEC Certification International Philippines, its external certification body.

The Internal Quality Audit (IQA) conducted on July 1–16 prepared the Council for the remote Surveillance Audit on September 14. On November 10–12, the DOST-PCAARRD QMS Process Team proceeded with the review and revision of the Risk Management Plans (RMP) of the 20 certified QMS Processes, each indicating the risk of system disruption due to natural disaster DOST-PCAARRD fund utilization, 2020. and health pandemic.

Customer Satisfaction

In response to Memo Circular 2020-1 dated June 2, 2020— Guidelines on the Grant of the Performance Based Bonus (PBB) for 2020 under EO No. 80 s. 2012 and EO 201. s. 2016, particularly on Citizen/Client Satisfaction, DOST-PCAARRD revised its Customer Satisfaction Feedback (CSF) forms for its external and internal services incorporating seven service dimensions set by the AO 25 Secretariat, namely: responsiveness, reliability Resource generated, 2020. (quality), access and facilities,

82 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report communication, integrity, KM Virtual Workshop for the R&D mapped for the development of assurance, and outcome. Consortia and CMIs consortia knowledge nodes under the KM Portal. In line with this, the CSF Information In lieu of the scheduled face- System was enhanced to capture to-face KM workshops with the Knowledge Management for the abovementioned service consortia KM coordinators and Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural dimensions and was implemented consortium member institution Resources (KM4AANR) Portal through AO No. 182 on (CMI) representatives, the virtual November 18. This year, the Council workshop on "Knowledge Audit The KM4AANR Knowledge Sharing received an outstanding rating for and Rapid KM Assessment" was System (KSS) connects all the the following services: developed in Google classroom. nodes of the DOST-PCAARRD The online workshop was launched knowledge network through a External: NAARRDN Facilities on July 29, 2020 via Zoom and one-stop search portal. The KSS Improvement Program, Thesis/ attended by 111 participants integrates various websites and Dissertation Financial Support from the R&D consortia. Inputs databases maintained by the Program, publication dissemination, from this workshop were audited, R&D Consortia and CMIs. The walk-in/online platforms, non- consolidated, assessed, and system features a search portal degree training, and seminar, forum, workshop, conference, and other similar activity; and

Internal: audio visual, FAD, and ICT services and maintenance and repair of facilities.

Knowledge Management (KM) for AANR

Websites Developed for the New Normal

The DOST-PCAARRD Virtual Exhibit was conceptualized and accomplished for the online celebration of the DOST NSTW 2020 held on November 23–29. It has the following features: Virtual exhibit. virtual tour; pictures, videos, and description of technologies; interactive quizzes; events calendar; and live chat.

Likewise, the DOST-PCAARRD events website was developed for the online NSAARRD, which was held on December 1. The website was then enhanced for the DOST-PCAARRD S&T Awards on December 22.

These websites can be accessed through the DOST-PCAARRD Portal.

Events webpage.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 83 and a recommendation system to Support to Gender and of the main mandates of the unit, streamline knowledge resources Development (GAD) in compliance with Magna Carta management, documentation, of Women or RA 9710. The draft storage, dissemination, community DOST-PCAARRD drafted and of the 2019 DOST-PCAARRD GAD interaction, and utilization revised the Council’s GAD Agenda, AR was submitted to Philippine monitoring. which is composed of both GAD Commission on Women (PCW) Strategic Plan and GAD Strategic last July for the review process, The project team is currently Framework. The GAD agenda which was eventually approved for constructing a bilingual knowledge will serve as the basis and endorsement to the Commission on taxonomy for AANR knowledge reference for the prioritization and Audit (COA). The Council achieved artifacts to improve the KM4AANR implementation of GAD initiatives a 7.95% GAD attributable budget portal’s search engine. Using an in DOST-PCAARRD. The unit also equivalent to P95,813,907.04 of English-Filipino or bilingual mode, spearheaded the conduct of the the total agency budget for 2019. the search engine will be able GAD Mainstreaming and Evaluation Meanwhile, in October, a draft of to process a query in any of the Framework (GMEF), with the DOST-PCAARRD 2021 GPB was two languages and come up with primary goal of evaluating DOST- prepared and submitted. It was relevant results even if most of the PCAARRD’s current GAD initiatives, encoded and uploaded to the content in the current database is in and consequently identified areas Gender Mainstreaming Monitoring English. of improvement for the agency’s System (GMMS), PCW's database pursuit of gender equality and for monitoring GPB and GAD International KM Conference women’s empowerment. With an AR of government agencies and overall total GMEF score of 49.99, institutions, and is currently being DOST-PCAARRD, through Applied the Council is currently at Level 3 reviewed by PCW. Communication Division (ACD) of gender mainstreaming, which Director Marita A. Carlos, means that organizations at this Policy issuances on PCW-mandated participated in the international level have already institutionalized initiatives. In the interest of webinar, “A Perspective on Capacity GAD-related activities, instead of the service and as mandated Building in Knowledge Management sporadic and uncoordinated efforts. by RA 9710, PCAARRD GFPS Development in the Agricultural It also connotes that the agency’s was recently reconstituted in Sector of Iran,” organized by GAD Plan and Budget (GPB) have accordance to PCW Memo Circular APAARI and the Agricultural become more strategic in terms No. 2011-2 on the Guidelines Research, Education and Extension of applying gender analysis in for the Creation, Strengthening, Organization (AREEO) Academic regular programs, which results in and Institutionalization of GFPS. Relations and International Affairs either increased attribution of the The newly reconstituted GFPS (ARIA) last August 17, 2020. GAD budget and/or more gender- will spearhead the planning, Director Carlos discussed how KM responsive programs. implementation, and monitoring of contributed to the transformation GAD-related initiatives in PCAARRD of its partner agencies in the The Council also consolidated networks. On June 4, 2020, an AO NAARRDN in her presentation, members and representatives on Adopting the Use of Gender- “Transformation of Agricultural of the GAD Focal Point System fair Language and Images in Innovation System, the Role of the (GFPS), from top to middle-level Policy Issuances was also signed National Agricultural Research management and employees of all by Dr. Ebora to ensure that non- System (NARS): A Success Story divisions in DOST-PCAARRD, and sexist language is used in all of from the Philippines.” furnished Administrative Order PCAARRD’s official documents. This (AO) No. 109 s. 2020, a policy policy issuance was also enshrined Access to Internal IS issuance on the Reconstitution in CSC Memo Circular No. 12, of GFPS dated last July 20, 2020. Series of 2005. To adjust to the work from home The GFPS is a representative directive of the government, the group that leads the agency’s The Council continues to recognize Council set-up a proxy service gender mainstreaming initiatives the importance of mainstreaming to allow staff access to internal and programs. Preparation and gender in all its initiatives. The GAD information systems that use web submission of DOST-PCAARRD’s program of the Council is proposed browsing protocols. The staff were GAD Accomplishment Report to be strengthened through the also provided laptops and mobile (GAD AR) and GPB are also two project, "Enhancement of Gender wireless fidelity (WiFi).

84 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report and Development Integration barangays in Los Baños. Out of the include improvement of their Towards a More Inclusive 50 project cooperators, 15 were household income, expansion of R&D in AANR." The project is a women fisherfolk and persons their social and market linkages, comprehensive assessment of the with disability (PWD). Majority and provision for opportunities extent to which GAD is integrated of the male-headed household to establish camaraderie with into PCAARRD R&D and a way to cooperators had a supportive the other coastal barangays. The devise integration strategies that spouse and family members that project utilized gender analysis can be pursued to incorporate GAD were also actively involved in the tools, such as the Sustainable in AANR S&T initiatives. The project project activities, such as fish Livelihood Approach (SLA) was approved by the Directors' processing trainings and capacity and Harmonized Gender and Council (DC) on July 21, 2020, with building on marketing and selling Development Guidelines (HGDG) an initial budget allocation of P1 M. of fish-based processed products. to assess the goals, policies, and Training on gender analysis and implementation strategies of the In terms of institutional mainstreaming was also conducted study from a gender lens, and partnerships, DOST-PCAARRD has for PESO employees and officers of results of the assessment indicated collaborated with the Municipality the fisherfolk association to ensure that the project was gender- of Los Baños, thru the LB-LGU that their fishing operations remain responsive. Public Employment Services Office gender-responsive even after the (PESO), in the implementation of project duration. Taal Volcano Relief Operations the project, “Gender Responsive Sustainable S&T-based Livelihood Through this project, the fisherfolk DOST-PCAARRD extended help to Opportunities in Tilapia Cage cooperative “Samahan ng mga the victims of the Taal Volcano Culture and Fish Processing for Mangingisda ng Los Baños” was eruption. In cooperation with the Low-Income Households in Five established, which is a non-profit Municipal government of Los Coastal Barangays of Los Baños organization already registered Baños, the Council distributed (Phase 2).” The project was able to at the SEC. An ex-post evaluation food packs and hygiene kits to the successfully foster a sustainable conducted after the project also displaced families at the Mendez and more gender-responsive tilapia indicated that the majority of the Covered Court Plaza, Mendez, cage culture and fish processing fisher cooperators confirmed that Cavite on January 24, 2020. for fisherfolk from five coastal the top benefits of the project

Training Workshop on HGDG for Three-day training on Tilapia Cage Culture with respondents from Brgy. Bambang Program Management Staff of the and Tadlac. PCAARRD-LB Project on S&T-based Livelihood Enterprises.

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 85 Way Forward

Indeed, DOST-PCAARRD proved (2016–2022) to fully address efficient and effective delivery its relevance in the AANR sector the identified gaps in the AANR of services; by providing quality programs and sector; • Strengthen the customer services in response to the impacts • Expand the GALING-PCAARRD feedback mechanism to brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. Program to respond to the improve the Council’s delivery It also remained steadfast in its growing needs of the Council of services; commitment to providing strategic beneficiaries even beyond • Enhance the connectivity to leadership in promoting S&T as COVID-19 pandemic; adapt to the new normal; a platform for AANR products • Aggressively disseminate • Continue implementing S&T innovation and environmental R&D, technology transfers, programs that have proven resiliency, thereby bringing hope and policy researches to our beneficial to its stakeholders; and security to its stakeholders stakeholders and promotion of and amidst the challenges. our knowledge management • Strictly comply with regulatory initiatives and statutory requirements of Through the lessons learned in • Continue developing new and the administration. 2020, the following strategies will enhancing current information be implemented: systems and databases that • Continue implementation of the are beneficial to the Council’s Industry Strategic S&T Program

86 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report List of Acronyms

6 Ps Publication, patents, products, people and services, places and partnerships, policies AABINPhil, Inc Agri-Aqua Business Incubation Network of the Philippines, Inc. AANR Agriculture, aquatic and natural resources ABS Access and benefit sharing ACD Applied Communication Division ACIAR Australian Center for International Agricultural Research ACMU ASEAN Centre on Microbial Utilisation ADMU Ateneo de Manila University AHP Analytical Hierarchy Process AIT Asian Institute of Technology AMC Agribusiness Master Class AO Administrative Order APAARI Asia Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions APC Adaptive planning calendar APC-Columbia Colombian Presidential Agency of International Cooperation APEC Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation APEC YST APEC Young Scientist Training APEC-PPSTI APEC-Policy Partnership for Science, Technology and Innovation APO Asian Productivity Organization AREEO Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization ARIA Academic Relations and International Affairs ARNP Apo Reef Natural Park ARNP-PAMO ARNP-Protected Area Management Office ART Assisted Reproduction Technologies ASC Apayao State College ASEAN Association of Southeast Asian Nations ASEAN-COSTI Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation ASPAC Asia-Pacific ATBI Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubation AutoFurrow Automated Furrow Irrigation System AWM Area wide management AWS Automatic Weather Station BARMM Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao BatSU Batangas State University BCAARRD Bicol Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development BioAP Biotechnology Authority of the Philippines

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 87 BISU Bohol Island State University BiVER Biodiversity and Vulnerable Systems Research BNP Bataan National Park BSC Blue swimming crabs BSP Balik Scientist Program BSU Benguet State University BSU-ATBI Benguet State University’s Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubation BTLP Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park BUCAF Bicol University College of Agriculture CALABARZON Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon CAPHE Coffee Application Harvest Estimator CapSU Capiz State University CAR Cordillera Administrative Region CCAARRD Caraga Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, Forestry, and Natural Resources Research and Development CCAFS Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security CESO Career Executive Service Officer CGIAR Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research CHED Commission on Higher Education CIAT International Center for Tropical Agriculture CIP International Potato Center CLAARRDEC Central Luzon Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium CLM Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar CLSU Central Luzon State University cm Centimeters CMI Consortia Member Institutions CMU Central Mindanao University CNSC Camarines Norte State College COA Commission on Audit CorCAARRD Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development CORRA Council for Partnership on Rice Research in Asia CPBRD Congressional Planning and Budget Research Department CPUE Catch per unit effort CRB Citrus rind borer CRD Crops Research Division CSC Civil Service Commission CSet Coconut somatic embryogenesis technology CSF Classical swine fever; customer satisfaction feedback CSIRO Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization CSU Caraga State University

88 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report CTU Cebu Technological University CVAARRD Cagayan Valley Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium CVAARRDEC Central Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (formerly CVCIRRD) CvSU Cavite State University DA Department of Agriculture DA-BAI DA-Bureau of Animal Industry DA-BFAR DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources DA-BPI DA-Bureau of Plant Industry DA-FPA DA-Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority DA-PCA DA-Philippine Coconut Authority DA-PCC DA-Philippine Carabao Center DA-PhilRice DA-Philippine Rice Research Institute DA-RFO DA-Regional Field Office DA-SRA DA-Sugar Regulatory Administration DAP Development Academy of the Philippines DBM Department of Budget and Management DC Directors’ Council DCAF Drought and Crop Assessment and Forecasting DENR Department of Environment and Natural Resources DFA Department of Foreign Affairs DLSU De La Salle University DNA Deoxyribonucleic acid DOST Department of Science and Technology DOST-FNRI DOST-Food and Nutrition Research Institute DOST-FPRDI DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute DOST-ITDI DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute DOST-NCR DOST-National Capital Region DOST-PCAARRD DOST- Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development DOST-PCAMRD DOST-Philippine Council for Aquaculture and Marine Resources Research and Development DOST-PCIEERD DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development DOST-PSHS DOST-Philippine Science High School DOST-SEI DOST-Science Education Institute DPITC DOST-PCAARRD Innovation and Technology Center DRR-CCAM Disaster Risk Reduction-Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation DSS Decision Support System DSSAT DSS for Agro-technology Transfer DTI Department of Trade and Industry

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 89 e-ASIA East Asia Science and Innovation Area ECQ Enhanced community quarantine ED Executive Director EFSB Eggplant fruit and shoot borer ENR Environment and natural resources EPF Entomopathogenic fungi EPN Entomopathogens EPP Enriched Potting Preparation EU European Union EVCCRD Eastern Visayas Center for Crustacean Research and Development FAD Finance and Administration Division FAW Fall armyworm FB Facebook FERD Forestry and Environment Research Division FFC Freshwater Fisheries Center FFTC Food and Fertilizer Technology Center FGD Focus group discussion FI Furrow irrigation FP Fertilization rate g Gram GAD Gender and Development GAD AR GAD Accomplishment Report GALING Good Agri-Aqua Livelihood Initiatives towards National Goals GAS General Administration Support GC Governing Council GESDA Geographically, Economically and/or Socially Disadvantaged GFPS GAD Focal Point System GIA Grants-In-Aid GIS Geographic information system GIS-based ALCAMS GIS-based Agroforestry Land Capability Mapping Scheme GIU Geographic insurance units GMEF GAD Mainstreaming and Evaluation Framework GMMS Gender Mainstreaming Monitoring System GO Government organization GPB GAD Plan and Budget GPPB Government Procurement Policy Board GPS Global positioning system GREAT Graduate Research and Education Assistantship for Technology GTIS Global technology and information search Ha Hectare HABs Harmful algal blooms

90 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report HAGABI Harnessing Agriculture for A Bountiful Ifugao HEI Higher Education Institutions HGDG Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines HNRDA Harmonized National Research and Development Agenda HRDP Human Resources Development Program IA Impact assessment IAMMST Informal ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science and Technology IARRD Inland Aquatic Resources Research Division IATF Inter-Agency Task Force ICT Information and communications technology IDD Institution Development Division IDtech Lab IDtechnologies Laboratory, Inc. IEC Information, education, and communication IESM Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology IGB Intelligent Green Box ILAARRDEC Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium IMTA Integrated Multi-trophic Aquaculture INPRA Itogon Native Pig Raisers Association IP Intellectual property; ItikPINAS IP-TBM Intellectual Property and Technology Business Management IPOPhil Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines IQA Internal Quality Audit IRRI International Rice Research Institute ISO International Organization for Standardization ISP Industry Strategic S&T Plan/Program ISU Isabela State University ITMoB Integration of traditional and modern bioproducts systems for a sustainable and resilient future under climate ecosystem changes ITPS Industrial tree plantation species JAF Jiangxi Academy of Forestry JRP Joint Research Program JSPS Japan Society for the Promotion of Science JST Japan Science and Technology Agency JxAAS Jiangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences KBA Key biodiversity areas KII Key informant interviews KM Knowledge Management KM4AANR Knowledge Management for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources KSS Knowledge Sharing System KSU Kalinga State University L Liters

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 91 LAGT Laguna Tall LAMP Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification LB Los Baños LBCA Laguna College of Business and Arts LB-LGU LB local government unit LBSCFI Los Baños Science Community Foundation, Inc. LGU Local government units LIFE Livelihood Improvement through Facilitated Extension LMS Learning Management System LRD Livestock Research Division LSPU Laguna State Polytechnic University m Meter M Million m2 Square meter m3 Cubic meter MAARRDEC MIMAROPA Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium M&E Monitoring and evaluation MARDI Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute MECO-TECO Manila Economic and Cultural Office-Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office MENRO Municipal Environment and Natural Resources MHWs Marine heat waves MIMAROPA Mindoro, Marinduque Romblon, Palawan Region MinSCAT Mindoro State College of Agriculture and Technology MISD Management Information Systems Division ml Milliliters MMSU Mariano Marcos State University MOA Memorandum of Agreement MOST Ministry of Science and Technology MOU Memorandum of Understanding MPA Marine Protected Area MRRD Marine Resources Research Division MS Master of Science MSC Marinduque State College MSME Micro-, small-, and medium-enterprises MSU Michigan State University MSU-Naawan Mindanao State University-Naawan MSU-Tawi-Tawi Mindanao State University-Tawi-Tawi MT Metric tons MTFR Mt. Bandilaan Forest Reserve NAARRDN National Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Network

92 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report NALUA National Land Use Act NARES National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems NARS National Agriculture Research System NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration NCBP National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines NCR National Capital Region NDVI Normalized Differential Vegetation Index NEDA National Economics and Development Authority NGA National government agencies NGO Non-government organization NHLA National Hardwood Lumber Association NICER Niche Centers in the Regions nm Nanometer NOMCAARRD Northern Mindanao Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development NSAARRD National Symposium on Agriculture and Aquatic Resources Research and Development NSTW National Science and Technology Week NVSU Nueva Vizcaya State University NwSSU Northwest Samar State University OED-ARMSS Office of the Deputy Executive Director for Administration, Resource Management and Support Services OED-RD Office of the Deputy Executive Director for Research and Development OHN Organic herbal nutrient OIC Officer-in-Charge PAC Policy Advisory Council PAG Policy Action Group PAGRO Provincial Agriculturists Office of Davao del Norte PBB Performance Based Bonus PCA Philippine Coconut Authority PCAR Philippine Council for Agricultural Research PCARR Philippine Council for Agricultural Resources Research PCARRD Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural l Resources Research and Development PCMD Policy Coordination and Monitoring Division PCR Polymerase chain reaction PCW Philippine Commission on Women PES Payment for ecosystem services PESO Public Employment Services Office PhD Doctor of Philosophy PIP Publication Incentive Program PNG Papua New Guinea POT Package of technology

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 93 PPC Pascual Pharma Corporation PPEs Personal protective equipment PPSTI Policy Partnership on Science, Technology and Innovation PRAISE Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence PRRS Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome PSAU Pampanga State Agricultural University PSU Palawan State University PWD Persons with disability QMS Quality Management System QPM Quality planting materials QRP Quick Response Projects R&D Research and development RA Republic Act RBME Results-based monitoring and evaluation RCP Regional Collaborative Program RDA Rural Development Administration RDI Research and Development Institute rDNA Recombinant DNA RDRU R&D results utilization ReAARRC Rebuilding the Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources in Response to COVID-19 RMP Risk Management Plan RNA Ribonucleic Acid; Research in Nutrigenomics of Aquatic Animals RRDCC Regional Research and Development Coordinating Council RSPL Raja Sikatuna Protected Landscape RSRDH Regional Symposium on R&D Highlights RT-LAMP Reverse Transcription-Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification RT-PCR Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction S&T Science and technology SAFE Science and Technology Action Frontline for Emergencies and Hazards SAFE CAR Disaster Risk Reduction on Climate Change Impacts on Agricultural Farms in the Cordillera Administrative Region SAFE-PNADRRHAB SAFE Project on Philippine Native Animals for Disaster Risk Reduction in Hazard- Prone Areas of Benguet SARAI Smarter Approaches to Reinvigorate Agriculture as an Industry SCB Sub-Committee on Biotechnology SciCAT Science for the Convergence of Agriculture and Tourism SCoPSA Sustainable corn production in sloping areas SeaRDeC Seaweed R&D Center SEC Securities and Exchange Commission SEI Science Education Institute SemEx Semen extender

94 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report SERD Socio-Economic Research Division SIPAG Strategic Industry S&T Programs for Agri-Aqua Growth SKSU Sultan Kudarat State University SLA Sustainable Livelihood Approach SLIMS Science Library Integrated Management System SLSU Southern Luzon State University SMAARRDEC Southern Mindanao Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium SNAP Simple Nutrient Addition Program SOXAARRDEC SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium SSU Samar State University STAARRDEC Southern Tagalog Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research, Development and Extension Consortium STAND ‘Science, Technology and Action’ Nexus for Development (STAND) STC4ID S&T Community-based Program for Inclusive Development STI Science, technology and innovation STVR Standardized Vegetation Temperature Ratio SUCs State universities and colleges SUSTAIN Support to the University's Strategies in Technology Acceleration Initiatives by Nurturing TAC Technical Advisory Committee TACDxLAGT Tacunan Dwarf x Laguna Tall TARI Taiwan Agriculture Research Institute TAU Tarlac Agricultural University TBI Technology business incubator TC/ha Ton-cane per hectare TECO Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office TPL Talibon Protected Landscape TTPD Technology Transfer and Promotion Division TWG Technical working group UAVs Unmanned aerial vehicles UEP University of Eastern Philippines UK United Kingdom UKRI United Kingdom Research and Innovation UN United Nations UNOSSC United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation UPD University of the Philippines Diliman UP-IESM UP-Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology UPLB University of the Philippines Los Baños UPLB-DTRI UPLB-Dairy Training and Research Institute UPLB-IPB UPLB-Institute of Plant Breeding

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 95 UP-MSI UP-Marine Science Institute UPM University of the Philippines Manila UPMin University of the Philippines Mindanao UPV University of the Philippines Visayas URS University of Rizal System USA United States of America USB Universal serial bus USeP University of Southeastern Philippines USM University of Southern Mindanao UST University of Santo Tomas VCO Virgin coconut oil ViCARP Visayas Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Program VIP CORALS Verde Island Passage Center of Oceanographic Research and Aquatic Life Sciences VSU Visayas State University WAISS Water Advisory for Irrigation Scheduling System WESMAARRDEC Western Mindanao Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium WESVAARRDEC Western Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium WFH Work from home WIBI Weather Index-based Crop Insurance Wi-Fi Technology for wireless local area networking with devices based on the IEEE 802.11 standards; Wi-Fi is a trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance WMSU Western Mindanao State University WPU Western Philippines University WSSV White Spot Syndrome Virus WVSU West Visayas State University

96 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Appendices

GOVERNING COUNCIL, CY 2020

Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña (Chair) Dr. Rowena Cristina L. Guevara (Alternate) Department of Science and Technology Undersecretary for Research and Development Bicutan, Taguig Department of Science and Technology Bicutan, Taguig

Hon. William D. Dar (Vice-Chair) Usec. Rodolfo V. Vicerra (Alternate) Secretary Undersecretary for Policy and Planning Department of Agriculture Department of Agriculture Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City (until June 2019)

Hon. Roy A. Cimatu (Co-Vice-Chair) Dr. Sofio B. Quintana (Alternate) Secretary Director Department of Environment and Natural Resources Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau Quezon City Department of Environment and Natural Resources Los Baños, Laguna

Hon. Ramon M. Lopez (Member) Dir. Nestor P. Arcansalin (Alternate) Secretary Department of Trade and Industry Department of Trade and Industry Industry Studies Department Makati City Makati City

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 97 Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora (Secretary) Dr. Fernando C. Sanchez, Jr. (Member-Academe) Executive Director Chancellor Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural University of the Philippines Los Baños Resources Research and Development College, Laguna Department of Science and Technology January 1 to October 31 Los Baños, Laguna

Chancellor Jose V. Camacho, Jr. Dr. Ricardo P. Babaran (Member-Academe) Chancellor Chancellor University of the Philippines Los Baños University of the Philippines Visayas College, Laguna Miag-ao, Iloilo November 1 to December 31 January 1 to October 31

Chancellor Clement C. Camposano(Member-Academe) Mr. Jose P. Leviste, Jr. (Member-Private Sector) University of the Philippines Visayas Chairman Miag-ao, Iloilo Oceanagold (Phils.), Inc. November 1 to December 31 Legaspi Village, Makati City

Mr. Roberto V. Azores (Member-Private Sector) Engr. Augusto C. Natividad (Member-Private Sector) Legaspi Village, Makati City Senior Vice President Frabelle Fishing Corporation Navotas

98 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Mr. Phillip L. Ong (Member-Private Sector) Mr. Wilfredo G. Yap (Alternate) President Executive Director Santeh Feeds Corporation Santeh Feeds Corporation Quezon City Quezon City

Mr. Arsenio Go Barcelona (Member-Private Sector) President Harbest Agribusiness Corporation Pasig City

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 99 PCAARRD DIRECTORS’ COUNCIL, CY 2020

Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora Office of the Executive Director (OED)

Dr. Melvin B. Carlos Dr. Juanito T. Batalon OED-Administration, Resource Office-In-Charge (OIC) Management and Support OED-Research and Development (RD) Services (ARMSS)

Ms. Marita A. Carlos Ms. Adoracion B. Armada Dr. Edna A. Anit Applied Communication OIC Crops Research Division (CRD) Division (ACD) Agricultural Resources Management Research Division (ARMRD)

Mr. Demetrio M. Cinco Ms. Susan S. Molina Dr. Leila C. America Finance and Administrative OIC Forestry and Environment Division (FAD) FAD Research Division (FERD) (January–August 17) (August 18–December 31)

100 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Engr. Eduardo V. Manalili Dr. Fezoil Luz C. Decena Dr. Synan S. Baguio Inland Aquatic Resources Institution Development Division Livestock Research Division (LRD) Research Division (IARRD) (IDD)

Dr. Richard E. Amansec Dr. Mari-Ann M. Acedera Dr. Lilian G. Bondoc Management Information Marine Resources Research Policy Coordination Systems Division (MISD) Division (MRRD) and Monitoring Division (PCMD)

Dr. Ernesto O. Brown Mr. Noel A. Catibog Socio-Economics Research OIC Division (SERD) Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD)

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 101 RRDCC CHAIRPERSONS AND CONSORTIUM DIRECTORS, CY 2020

Region/Consortium RRDCC Chairpersons Consortium Directors Base Agency

CAR – CorCAARRD (Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development)

Benguet State University (BSU) Dr. Feliciano G. Calora, Jr. Dr. Ruth S. Batani President, BSU Vice President (VP) for Research (January 1 to June 5) and Extension, BSU

Dr. Eduardo T. Bagtang President Kalinga State University (KSU) Officer-In-Charge June 6 to November 25

Dr. Felipe Salaing Comila President BSU November 26 to December 31

Region I – ILAARRDEC Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis Dr. Epifania O. Agustin President, MMSU Executive Assistant IV, MMSU

Region II – CVAARRD Cagayan Valley Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium

Isabela State University (ISU) Dr. Ricmar P. Aquino Dr. Miladis M. Afidchao President, ISU Professor V, ISU

102 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Region III – CLAARRDEC Central Luzon Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium

Central Luzon State University (CLSU) Dr. Honorio M. Soriano, Jr. Dr. Fe L. Porciuncula President, VP for Research, Extension and Training Pampanga State Agricultural University (RET), CLSU (PSAU)

Region IV-A – STAARRDEC Southern Tagalog Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research, Development and Extension Consortium

Cavite State University (CvSU) Dr. Hernando D. Robles Dr. Marilyn M. Escobar President, CvSU Dean, CvSU

Region IV-B – MAARRDEC MIMAROPA Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium

Mindoro State College of Agriculture and Technology Dr. Levy B. Arago, Jr. Dr. Maria Concepcion L. Mores (MinSCAT) President Vice President for Research, MinSCAT Development and Extension, MinSCAT

Region V – BCAARRD Bicol Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development

Bicol University-College of Agriculture and Forestry (BUCAF) Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas Dr. Marissa N. Estrella President, Bicol University Professor, BUCAF

Region VI – WESVAARRDEC Western Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium

West Visayas State University (WVSU) Dr. Raul F. Muyong Dr. Pastor Jones T. Denusta President, Iloilo Science and Technology Associate Professor, VSU University (ISAT-U)

Region VII – CVAARRDEC Central Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium

Bohol Island State University (BISU) Dr. Regucivilla A. Pobar Dr. Zina D. Sayson President, BISU VP for Research Development and Extension, BISU

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 103 Region VIII – VICARP Visayas Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Program

Visayas State University (VSU) Dr. Edgardo E. Tulin Dr. Othello B. Capuno President, VSU VP for Research, Extension and Innovation, VSU

Region IX – WESMAARRDEC Western Mindanao Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium

Western Mindanao State University Dr. Milabel E. Ho Dr. Teresita A. Narvaez (WMSU) President, WMSU Vice President for Resource Generation January 1 to April 16 and Professor, WMSU

*also assumed as OIC-President and RRDCC Chairperson April 17 to September 2

Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena President WMSU September 3 to December 31

Region X – NOMCAARRD (Northern Mindanao Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development)

Central Mindanao University (CMU) Dr. Jesus Antonio G. Derije Dr. Agnes S. Riñon President, CMU Associate Professor III, CMU January 1 to January 12

Dr. Emmanuel P. Leaño Professor V CMU January 13 to December 31

104 | 2020 PCAARRD Annual Report Region XI – SMAARRDEC Southern Mindanao Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium

University of Southeastern Dr. Anthony C. Sales Dr. Gilbert A. Importante Philippines (USeP) Regional Director (DOST-Region XI) Dean, College of Applied Economics (January 1 to December 7) USeP

Dr. Lourdes C. Generalao President University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) December 8 to 31

Region XII – SOXAARRDEC (SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium) formerly CAARRDEC

Dr. Rolando F. Hechanova Dr. Elizabeth C. Molina President, Sultan Kudarat State University Professor VI, USM (SKSU)

Region XIII – CCAARRD (Caraga Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development)

Caraga State University (CarSU) Dr. Anthony M. Penaso Dr. Raquel M. Balanay President, CarSU Professor V, CarSU

2020 PCAARRD Annual Report | 105 PRODUCTION TEAM

The Office of the Executive Director, the Policy Coordination and Monitoring Division, and the Applied Communication Division packaged this PCAARRD 2020 Annual Report for publication.

Writers/Contributors: Meliza F. Abeleda. Eugenio G. Afalla, Jr. Ma. Cecilia S. Alaban. Cynthia V. Almazan. Anna Marie P. Alo. Leila C. America. Princess Alma B. Ani. Mia Barbara DV. Aranas. Ann Kristine C. Aranguren. Eirene Grace Z. Arcayos. Rose Anne M. Aya. Arminda S. Atienza. Genny G. Bandoles. Azel Glory C. Banganan. Faustina C. Baradas. Alexander Paul Z. Batalon. Sharon P. Batoon. Maria Theresa T. Bautista. Cherry B. Bundalian. Diana Rose P. Cabello. Mell Jhazmin V. Cablayan. Dalisay E. Cabral. Alexandra Z. Cabrera. Eman Noel G. Cañada. Adelaida T. Calpe. Michelle P. Caparas. Hezron C. Casasola. Monica B. Castillo. Ma. Adela C. Corpuz. Mae A. Dagaas. Maria Teresa L. De Guzman. Marina T. de Ramos. Michelle A. De Vera. Ofelia F. Domingo. Cyrill S. Estimado. Lilibeth O. Furoc. Shirley T. Gahon. Susan L. Garcia. Kariza M. Geminiano. Abigail F. Gueco. Alissa Carol M. Ibarra. Adelina S. Jimenez. Joel Eneristo A. Joven. Engelbert R. Lalican. Glenda P. Lantacon. Cherry V. Lanwang. Audrey O. Lapitan. Lucy A. Lastimosa. Paul Jersey G. Leron. Eduardo V. Manalili. Abegail Grace M. Maralit. Pia Adelie M. Mortel. Gretchen O. Nas. Genevic R. Obrero. Armand J. Oleta. Ramon A. Oliveros. Joel Norman R. Panganiban. Carlo I. Palaypayon. Rowena A. Parducho. Mary Ranzelle A. Pasang. John Christopher M. Polinar. Christine Ann A. Predo. Eileen M. Redera. Abigail May O. Retuta. Alvin Quiel C. Sabanal. Preciosa C. Samonte. Christine D. Santiago. Jaynee Lyn M. Santos. Marcelino U. Siladan. Procy B. Sobreviñas. Maria Angelica C. Torres. Yolanda M. Tanyag. Annette M. Tobias. Nimfa K. Torreta. Jaypee J. Trinidad. Shirey O. Ubal. Kathleen Faith Jay O. Villarma. Janet Jane S. Valguna.

Editor: Marie Joy L. Zuraek

Style Editor: Marina T. de Ramos

Technical Editor: Procy B. Sobreviñas

Editorial Assistant: Azel Glory C. Banganan, Rowena A. Parducho, Alexandra E. Tamis

Design and Layout: Marie Joy L. Zuraek

Photos: DOST-PCAARRD ISP Managers, DOST-PCAARRD Archive, Quimby Mari R. Genota, Reinier Josef D. Abagat

Advisers: Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, Dr. Melvin B. Carlos, Dr. Feliciano G. Calora, Jr., Dr. Juanito T. Batalon, Dir. Marita A. Carlos, and Dr. Lilian G. Bondoc The PCAARRD Logo

The basic figure in DOST-PCAARRD’s logo is from its mother agency’s (the Department of Science and Technology) logo, which consists of four circles joined together side by side to form a square. The circles symbolize unit particles, the building blocks of nature which are the subject and substance of science and technology. The circle design represents movement signifying progress through Science and Technology (S&T). The center square represents DOST-PCAARRD and is composed of a human figure carrying an oversized headgear or ‘salakot.’ The human figure with extended arms represents the research and development (R&D) community fused into a world-class research enterprise working towards enhancing productivity, innovative capacity, and global competitiveness in agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sectors.

The salakot, a traditional Filipino wide-brimmed hat depicts the Council’s commitment to protect and improve the lives and well-being of the common farmers and fisherfolk by enabling the national agriculture, aquatic, and resources research and development system (NAARRDS) to respond to the challenges and impact of a constantly changing environment.

The brims in the salakot symbolize the joint efforts and collaborative S&T interventions for the AANR sectors. The upper green brim depicts the agriculture and natural resources while the lower blue brim represents the aquatic and marine resources sectors, which all require sustainable use and management. ISO 9001:2015