Volume 10 Issue No. 4 A monthly publication of the Bureau of Agricultural Research APRIL 2009

BUREAU OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCHBAR BINHI AWARDEE (2007)

Agricultural Newsletter of the Year

hronicleCVisit our official website at http://www.bar.gov.ph

ISSN 1655-3942

RDMIC Bldg., Visayas Ave.,cor. Elliptical Rd.Diliman,Quezon City 1104PHILIPPINES

Entered as second class mail at the Quezon City Central Post Office under permit no. 753-01 NCR

NEWS

BAR hronicleCDEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

photos by RDELACRUZ & JLAPITAN

FLORENDO AWARDEE (2003)Outstanding Information Tool for Print

POT for peanut now availableAsha

Asha

Asha

was developed andbrought to the Philippines through acollaborative effort between the India-based research institution, theInternational Crops Research Institutefor Semi-Arid Tropic (ICRISAT) and theBureau of Agricultural Research (BAR).The big-seeded peanut variety is knownto produce nuts larger than thosetraditionally grown in the country. Dueto its size and high-yielding nature,showed great potential in increasing theharvest and income of local peanutfarmers.

The POT was developed by theDepartment of Agriculture-CagayanValley Integrated Agricultural ResearchCenter (DA-CVIARC) through a three-year project on the production and

promotion of peanut. Initiated inApril 2005, was tested forsuitability in pilot areas in Cagayanincluding Ilagan, Isabela, and Iguig.

The project aimed to evaluateand compare the adaptability andagronomic performance of withlocally-grown peanut varieties. Variousvarietal tests were conducted on-stationand on-farm, taking into considerationplant spacing, fertilizer, lime applicationrates, and other technology interventions.Results of the interventions served as thebases in the development of the POT forthe suitable production of variety.

Following the development ofthe POT is the production of seeds forthe promotion and commercialization of

. According to DA-CVIARC, they

AshaAsha

Asha

Asha

Asha

have produced 11,353 kg of seeds, valuedat Php 567,650, using its five hectareproduction area in Ilagan, Isabela, and inthe farms of DA-assisted seed growers.The seeds were distributed for plantingpurposes to farmer-producers andgovernment accredited seed centerswhich were initially chosen for theproject.

With adapting well inPhilippine soil along with the developedPOT, peanut yield increased dramaticallyfrom 600 to1,100 kg/ha. This translatesfrom Php 15,000 to 27,000/ha increase infarmers' income.

To promote the appropriate useof in the country, CVIARCproduced and distributed InformationEducation Communication (IEC)

Asha

Asha

A Package of Technology(POT) for the productionof Asha peanut variety isnow available to farmersfor improving theproductivity of peanutin the country.

turn to page 7�

BAR's partnership with the stateuniversities and colleges(SUCs) was further

strengthened through a Memorandumof Agreement (MOA) which wassigned with the Bataan PeninsulaState University (BPSU) for theproject titled, “Promotion ofProtective Cultivation Technology forHigh Value Organic VegetableProduction”.

BAR jumpstarts project onhigh-value, organic veggies

Signing the MOA were Dir.Nicomedes P. Eleazar of BAR and Dr.Delfin O. Magpantay, president ofBPSU.

The objectives of the projectinclude the production of off-seasonhigh value organic vegetables, and theutilization of animal waste and plantresidues as sources of organicfertilizers. The project will also

turn to page 8�

Over 3,600 households areexpected to benefit from aproposed goat dispersal project

of the Department of Agriculture (DA)that forms part of the fresh stimulusinitiatives of the Arroyo administration tohelp Filipinos in the countryside copewith the global economic slide.

In a report to DA SecretaryArthur Yap, executive director CarlosMendoza of the Livestock DevelopmentCouncil (LDC) said the goat dispersalprogram will allocate a moduleconsisting of one buck and 30 does permunicipality covered by the project.

Each module will have 15beneficiaries or an equivalent of 45beneficiaries per province, Mendoza said.

“This project is one of the DA'scontribution to President Arroyo'sComprehensive Livelihood andEmergency Employment Program(CLEEP), which is a component ofPresident Arroyo's P330-billion stimulusprogram to energize the domesticeconomy and help Filipinos ride out thedeepening US-induced global recession,”Mendoza said.

The biggest number ofbeneficiaries under the goat dispersalproject will come from Central Luzonwith 315 low-income households beingtargeted to take part in this initiative, hesaid.

Mendoza said the CordilleraAdministrative Region, Bicol, WesternVisayas, Eastern Visayas, and theAutonomous Region in MuslimMindanao will each have 270beneficiary-families.

A total of 225 families each arebeing targeted in the regions of Cagayan

DA targets 3,600 beneficiary-familiesKambingan

Valley, Cavite-Laguna-Batangas-Rizal-Quezon (Calabarzon), Mindoro-Marinduque-Romblon-Palawan(MIMAROPA), Northern Mindanaoand Caraga, he added.

Mendoza said the IlocosRegion, Central Visayas, Davao andCentral Mindanao will have 180families each benefiting from theproject, while the Zamboanga regionwill have 135 household beneficiaries.

Yap had earlier ordered DAregional directors to immediately bidout its labor-intensive, high-impactprojects as part of the Arroyogovernment's economic resiliencyprogram.

“The plan is for the DA tospeed up the implementation of theseintervention projects in the firstsemester of the year to create a lot of

jobs and stimulate economic activityin the countryside by the time thefull brunt of the global financialcrisis is expected to be felt in thePhilippines,” Yap said.

He had noted thatexpediting the bidding processwould help speed up the release offunds for such projects, given thatunder government auditing rules, nodisbursements could be made unlessthe bidding processes are completedand the winning bidders are named.

Yap said that DA willclosely monitor the implementationof its high-impact projects to ensurethe judicious disbursement of fundsparticularly to its program partnersin the private sector.

DA created national and

photo by RDELACRUZ

turn to page 11

�

ISO 9001:2000

In this issue

POT for peanut now available.............

BAR jumpstarts project on high-value...........

RMTU confers Eleazar honorary doctorate....

Planning meeting for BAR-ICRISAT project.....

BAR promotes unpopular veggies ...............

Community-based production.....................

Tissue-cultured rubber for rapid....................

Results of SSNM on-farm trials highlighted.....

showcases Cordillera agri...............

Innovating institutions for food......................

Expert from ICRISAT lectures on climate.......

Eleazar speaks at SLSU-JGE gradation..........

National review and consultation.................

DA Kambingan targets 3,600.......................

Asha

Lang-ay

Biotech project to revive duck industry.........

BAR supports BPSU banana tissue..................

DA convenes information champions...........

1

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

NEWS

RITA T. DELA CRUZmanaging editor/layout

MANUEL F. BONIFACIO,VICTORIANO B. GUIAM

EDMON B. AGRONMARLOWE U. AQUINO,

RITA T. DELA CRUZCHRISTMAS B. DE GUZMANMA. ELOISA E. HERNANDEZ

DON P. LEJANOPATRICK A. LESACA

MIKO JAZMINE J. MOJICARENE CRIS P. RIVERA

PhD

PhD

consulting editors

writers/contributors

BAR Chronicle is the official monthly publication of the Department of Agriculture-, mandated to ensure that agricultural researches are coordinated

and undertaken for maximum utility to agriculture. This publication provides regular updates onDA-BAR s activities as the country s national coordinator for agriculture and fisheries R&D. It alsohighlights features and news articles concerning NaRDSAF-member institutions.

Bureau ofAgricultural Research (DA-BAR)

RICARDO G. BERNARDOANTHONY A. CONSTANTINO

JULIA A. LAPITANVICTORIA G. RAMOS

reproduction/printing

circulation

MARLOWE U. AQUINO,

DR. NICOMEDES P. ELEAZAR,

PhD

CESO IV

head, ACD

adviser

For subscription and inquiries please contact:Bureau of Agricultural Research, Department of Agriculture

3/F RDMIC Bldg., Visayas Ave., cor. Elliptical Rd., Diliman, Quezon City 1104 PHILIPPINESTelephone No.+63 (02) 928-8505 local 3026-3027 Fax: (02) 927-5691 or (02) 927-0227e-mail:Articles are also available online. Please visit us at:

Applied Communication Division

acd@bar.gov.phhttp://www.bar.gov.ph

NEWS

2 BAR hronicleC April 2009 Issue BAR hronicleC 15

BAR hronicleCDEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

The official monthly publication of DA-BAR

photo from www.worldofpangasius.com.vn

The Ramon MagsaysayTechnological University (RMTU)conferred BAR Director

Nicomedes P. Eleazar a doctorate degreein agricultural science ( ) forhis outstanding accomplishments andcontributions in the field of agriculturalsciences particularly on research anddevelopment.

The conferment was givenduring the RMTU South Campuses 9

honoris causa

th

RMTU confers Eleazar honorarydoctorate in agricultural science

Commencement Exercises on 2 April2009 in its San Marcelino Campus,Zambales wherein Dir. Eleazar alsoserved as the commencement speaker.

Past recipients of RMTUhonorary doctorate degrees include high-ranking and well-respected governmentofficials such as former AgricultureSecretary Luis P. Lorenzo, Sen. RamonB. Magsaysay Jr., Sen. Edgardo J.Angara, and Sen. Manuel B. Villar.

In his address, Director Eleazarcommended RMTU for being one of thecenters of excellence in the region andfor producing graduates who arecompetitive and can deliver results in theworkplace.

“RMTU is one of our able andproactive partners at BAR and I applaudthis university for serving as a learninginstitution that actively addresses thedevelopment agenda of the government,”Eleazar stressed in his speech.

Graduates from RMTU's SouthCampuses include degree holders fromthe San Marcelino and CastillejosCampuses in Zambales, and MondriaanAura College in Olongapo City whereRMTU offers a consortium program.Other RMTU campuses in Zambales arelocated in Botolan, Iba, Candelaria,Masinloc, and Sta. Cruz. Dr. Feliciano S.Rosete is RMTU's current president.

Agriculture and fisheries-relateddegrees are offered in various RMTUcampuses. In the San Marcelino Campus,

the College of Agricultural Technologyoffers Bachelor Degree and Diploma inAgricultural Technology while theCollege of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine offers Bachelor andDoctorate degrees in Animal Scienceand Veterinary Medicine, respectively.

In Botolan, RMTU offersMasters Degree in Agriculture andForestry, respectively; BS Agriculture,BS Agribusiness, BS Forestry, Bachelorof Agricultural Technology, Diploma inAgricultural Technology, and ForestRanger Certificate from the College ofAgriculture and Forestry; BSAgricultural Education and BSExtension Education from the Collegeof Agricultural Education and RuralDevelopment; and BS AgriculturalEngineering, BS Agro-IndustrialEngineering, and BS GeodeticEngineering from the College of Agro-Industrial Engineering. The curriculumof Botolan Campus likewise includesagricultural science for high schoolstudents. Furthermore, RMTU'sCandelaria Campus, College ofFisheries offers BS Fishery Educationand BS Fisheries.

RMTU's history dates from1998 when the Republic Act 8498 wasput into law, thereby integrating the thenWestern Luzon Agricultural College,Ramon Magsaysay Polytechnic College,and Candelaria School of Fisheries intoone university. (Miko Jazmine J.

Dir. Nicomedes P. Eleazar (right) is conferred thedoctorate degree in agricultural science.

photoby

RM

TU

The Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR), being the leadagency in coordinating the

research and development component ofthe National Rubber DevelopmentProgram of the Department of Agriculture(DA), held a national review andconsultation workshop on rubberresearch, development and extension(RDE) agenda and programs at theBureau of Agricultural Research (BAR),RDMIC Building, Visayas Avenue,Diliman, Quezon City. The mainobjective of the activity is to have acommon understanding of the goals andobjectives of the national RDE projectplanning and implementation inupholding the rubber industry.

Specifically, it aims to: 1) planfor future activities and identify bettercoordination/collaboration activitiesamongst participating agenciesimplementing rubber projects in selectedareas in the Philippines; 2) document andassess the status and accomplishments ofthe BAR-funded rubber RDE projects,including benchmark data on production,processing and marketing aspects; 3)document and assess manpower factor of

National review and consultationworkshop on Rubber RDE held

the national rubber RDE program; and 4)document and assess the technical,economic and policy requirements in theimplementation of rubber RDE projects.

The consultation workshop kickedoff with the opening remarks given byBAR Assistant Director Teodoro Solsoloy.He emphasized the importance ofconducting the consultation workshop instrengthening linkages with the variousstakeholders and identifying updates andrecent developments in the national as wellas global rubber industry. BAR’s nationalcoordinator for rubber,

discussed the rationale of theactivity and the workshop methodologywhile Region 12 coordinator, AngelMorcozo, served as the master of ceremonyand the moderator during the plenarysessions.

As the only commercial source ofnatural rubber, rubber trees (

Muell. Arg) has a lucrativemarket in the international rubber industry.With that, DA aims to improve thecountry's natural rubber production throughfocusing on the NRDP to expand thecurrent area planted totaling 92,000hectares, and increase production and

Heveabrasiliensis

Mr. RodolfoGalang,

exports to $960 million all by 2020. “Thisis in line with the DA's 15-year plan tomake the Philippines a major playerglobally as announced by Secretary ArthurYap during the 4 ASEAN RubberConference,” Galang said.

BAR supports various projects ontechnology commercialization of rubberand other production and processingtechnologies through technologypromotion and demonstration in suitablerubber areas nationwide. During thesecond day of the consultation workshop,BAR Director Nicomedes Eleazar saidthat BAR recognizes the need tostrengthen the national RDE system tofurther develop the existing rubberindustry. “We are conducting this kind ofconsultation workshop to intensify thenational RDE system from which futureadvances and development on rubber mustbe grounded,” he stated. “Rest assured thatwe will consistently support projectsrelated on rubber as these would aid in thesuccess of our rubber industry,” he added.

Among the problems identified interms of rubber RDE are: high incidenceof tapping panel dryness or diseases(TPD), low latex yield per tree and perhectare, lack of quality planting material,long immaturity period and long paybackperiod, poor information system, lack ofclones adaptable in dry and typhoon beltareas (Luzon and Visayas), and poorquality/odor of raw rubber.

Participants of the consultationworkshop include project leaders andidentified focal persons on rubber fromselected Regional Integrated AgriculturalResearch Centers (RIARCs) and stateuniversities and colleges (SUCs). Theypresented their on-going projects to assessthe accomplishments and gatherrecommendations to better the projectimplementation. Additionally,presentations of new project proposalsfrom different regional partners werehighlighted in the activity.

Panel of evaluators consistedexperts from the University of SouthernMindanao (USM), Makiling Center forMountain Ecosystems (MCME), USM-based Zonal Research Center for RegionsIX, XII, and CARAGA, DA-RegionalField Unit IX, and UPLB.

th

(Christmas B.de Guzman)

April 2009 Issue

Panel of evaluators: (L-R) Dr. Romulo Cena of USM; Dr.Eufrocinio Marfori of BIOTECH-UPLB; For. Nicasio Balahadia,MCME-UPLB; Dr. Emma Sales of CHED; and Mr. RogerBagaforo of DA-RFU 9. (Inset photo) Dir. Nicomedes P. Eleazarexpresses his support in strengthening the national RDEsystem for rubber particularly in contributing significantshares in the global trade for natural rubber.

photosby

CD

EG

UZ

MA

N

NEWS

14 BAR hronicleC BAR hronicleC 3

text and photos by Rita T. dela Cruz

NEWS

Aplanning meeting for thenewly-approved joint project ofthe Bureau of Agricultural

Research (BAR) and the InternationalCrops Research Center for Semi-AridTropics (ICRISAT) titled, “FieldTesting of ICRISAT Legume Varietiesand Technologies in Selected Regionsof the Philippines” was conducted todiscuss major activities and determinestrategic actions essential for effectiveimplementation.

Dr. Carmencita V. Kagaoan,head of the Program DevelopmentDivision of BAR, facilitated theplanning meeting and explained theproject overview.

The objective of the project isto test new varieties of peanut, pigeonpea, and chickpea for their suitabilityunder local conditions. It aims todisseminate suitable technologies thatwill provide rural farmers higherincome while addressing foodinadequacy.

“This project is in line withPresident Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's

Planning meeting for BAR-ICRISATproject on legume varieties held

BAR and ICRISAT meet with regional partners who willimplement the project. PDD head, Dr. Carmencita V.Kagaoan (center) provides the project overview. Joiningthem in the meeting is Dr. CL Laxmipathi Gowda, (insetphoto) global team leader on Crop Improvement of ICRISAT.

Comprehensive Livelihood andEmergency Employment Program(CLEEP),” Dr. Kagaoan emphasized.

Meanwhile, Dr. CL LaxmipathiGowda, director of ICRISAT'sInformation Resource ManagementProgram and global team leader on CropImprovement of ICRISAT, was alsopresent during the planning meeting. Hesaid that the adaptability of ICRISATlegume varieties under the country'sclimatic condition has potential forproduction and development. “It's a factthat increase in temperature generallyreduces crop duration. When it comes toadaptability, pigeon peas are drought-resistant and can be grown in areas withminimal rainfall, similar to chick peasand peanuts,” he explained.

Among the key issues discussedduring the meeting were croppreference, cropping season, andareas/sites selection. A workshopfollowed to finalize the activities andschedules in the pilot regions withassistance from BAR regionalcoordinators.

The BAR-ICRISAT project,which runs for one year. With theintroduction of these new crops fromIndia, the project aims to disseminatesuitable technologies that will empowerFilipino farmers by providing themhigher incomes while addressing foodinadequacy in rural areas.

The project covers fourstrategies for implementation: 1) varietyintroduction and field testing, 2) on-station seed production, 3) technologydissemination and promotion, and 4)educational enhancement of researchand development personnel throughtrainings and field visits at ICRISAT.

These strategies will beimplemented by selected RegionalIntegrated Agricultural ResearchCenters (RIARCs) covering differentpilot areas. These include: Region 1(Ilocos), Region 5 (Bicol), Region 6(Western Visayas), Region 7 (CentralVisayas), Region 8 (Eastern Visayas),Region 9 (Western Mindanao), andRegion 10 (Northern Mindanao).(Christmas B. de Guzman)

photos by CDEGUZMANBureau of Agricultural ResearchDirector Nicomedes P. Eleazarwas guest of honor during the 7

Commencement Exercises of theSouthern Luzon State University-JudgeGuillermo Eleazar (SLSU-JGE) held on24 April 2009 at the TagkawayanMunicipal Covered Court, Tagkawayan,Quezon.

Prior to the event, Dir. Eleazarattended the baccalaureate mass andwitnessed the candle lighting andhooding ceremonies as he witnessed the114 proud graduates of the University.Reverend Father Celso L. Barreto of theOur Lady of Lourdes Parish Church inTagkawayan led the celebration.

In his brief speech, Eleazaraddressed the assembly with full ofmemories of being a truehimself. In his speech, Director Eleazarunderscored the need for good andquality education while pointing out thatthe road to academic excellence is aperson’s sacred duty to oneself and to hiscountry.

The SLSU-JGE's MarchingSong stated,

This he said is the blue print forsuccess and nationalism-- if we all wantto become better individuals andcitizens. He also said that the truemeasure of education lies in the ability tocontribute to the betterment of the peopleas a whole.

th

Quezonian

“building a better nation,making our country grand, showing theway for one's dream, serves as guidinglight.”

Eleazar speaks at SLSU-JGE graduation

Eleazar also honored the proudparents and guardians who madepersonal sacrifices to send theirchildren to good schools anduniversities to obtain quality education.He then urged the graduates to lookupon and pray that these sacrifices maynot be put and placed in vain. He alsocongratulated all university professors,faculty and members of SLSU – JGEfor their passion to teach and thevocation to share the gift of knowledge--well done, he said.

The director likewise ponderedtoo on Mr. William Allin's thoughtwhen he said that “Education is not theanswer to the question. Education isthe means to answer the questions.”And this led to the challenge heimposed upon graduates to widen theiracquired knowledge and ability bybeing developmental oriented person.Director Eleazar stressed that whilehaving good education is imperative toones success, it is also equallyimportant to use this to contribute to the

developmental process of growth andprogress. He cited that individual skillsare good, but collective ones are better.

SLSU-JGE boasts of 96.5%functional literacy rate, the highest inthe province, if not, in the entirearchipelago. The impressive rateaccomplished by the university is amanifestation of one's personalcommitment to make a difference in thearena of education. Dir. Eleazarapplauded, praised, and congratulated allthe teaching and faculty and staff ofSLSU-JGE under the leadership of itsUniversity President Dr. Cecilia N.Gascon. “Job well done,” he added.

Finally, Dir. Eleazaremphasized that in order to propel thenation toward prosperity amidst thethreat of globalization, recession,financial crisis and the economicmeltdown being experienced by firstworld countries, the ability to integrateindividual skills into the paradigm ofnationhood is a must. (Patrick A.Lesaca)

Dir. Nicomedes P. Eleazar (left) delivers his commencement address at SLSU-JGE campus. Dir. Eleazar with SLSU President Cecilia N. Gascon

Eleazar stressed that while having goodeducation is imperative to ones success, it isalso equally important to use this tocontribute to the developmental process ofgrowth and progress. He cited that individualskills are good, but collective ones are better.

“

”

photos by AOBLIGADO

April 2009 Issue April 2009 Issue

NEWS

4 BAR hronicleC

NEWS

BAR hronicleC 13

BAR ALBUM

Bayok-bayok, himbabao, kulitis,talinum, basellalablab

, and—these are just few of the

many indigenous vegetables that areavailable in the country which areconsidered important due to theirsupplementing and nutritive values.

Despite their recognizedimportance, these “unpopularvegetables” continue to be underutilized.The possible reasons are inadequateinformation on use and importance, lackof information about their performanceand input requirements, and insufficientinformation on how indigenousvegetables can fit into productionsystems. Also, traditional varieties arebeing replaced by high yieldingcommercial varieties which are moreprofitable and preferred by producersand farmers, thus the genetic resource ofindigenous veggies is dwindling andmay be at risk of extinction.

To specifically address this, theBureau of Agricultural Research (BAR)partnered with Taiwan-based R&Dinstitution, The World Vegetable Center,to strengthen food security, improvenutrition and the income-generatingcapacity of the rural poor, at the sametime conserving the biodiversity ofPhilippine indigenous vegetables. Thisinitiative is also in line with theDepartment of Agriculture's program onsustainable nutrition advocacy bypromoting the production, marketing,and consumption of highly nutritiousvegetables and with BAR's national RDEprogram on indigenous plants for healthand wellness.

The project titled, “Promotion ofIndigenous Vegetable for PovertyAlleviation and Nutrition Improvementof Rural Households in the Philippines,”is implemented in the country throughthe DA-Regional Field Units (RFUs) andthe National Nutrition Council (NNC) incooperation with the local governmentunits (LGUs).

Through this project of

BAR promotes

to address malnutrition anddwindling genetic resource

‘unpopular veggies’

AVRDC-BAR, introduction andselection of indigenous vegetables ispromoted through technologydemonstrations on proper cultivationand utilization in selected, target ruralareas in the Philippines. The priorityareas include those with high prevalenceof malnutrition and poverty, specificallythe poorest provinces in Regions 5, 6,and 10. The project promotes the useand benefits of cultivating indigenousvegetables in home gardens and in theproduction of seeds.

Among the indigenousvegetables exhibited in plots fortechnology demonstrations during fielddays are: eggplants, amaranths,cucurbits, radish, bottle gourd, luffa(smooth and ridged types), wax gourd,bittergourd, snake gourd, squash, jute,basella, kangkong, ivy gourd, basil,lablab, rosella, okra, yardlong bean,winged bean, cucumber, tomato, andvegetable soybean.

Results of the study showed 10promising indigenous veggies that arenow prioritized for massive promotion.These include: alugbati ( ),

for leaves orBasella alba

ampalaya bayok-bayok

( ),( ),( .), (bambooshoot), or bottle gourd( ),( .), (fiddlehead),

( .), and( ).These indigenous

vegetables were chosen based on:nutrient content, medicinal andhealth benefits, non-food uses, andvolume of production and foodpreparation.

They are considered“indigenous” to the Philippinesbecause they have been growingabundantly in the rural areas sincetime immemorial, although noteveryone is aware of their value asfood and as affordable andalternative sources of essentialnutrients. High-yielding vegetablesas products of scientific breeding arenot considered indigenous.

These types of vegetablesare easier to grow, more resistant topests, and are highly acceptable to

Momordica charantia himbabaoAllaeanthus luzonicus kulitisAmaranthus spp labong

upoLagenaria siceria malunggayMoringa spp pako

saluyot Corchorus spptalinum Talinum triangulare

Saluyot (Corchorus spp.) photo by RDELACRUZ

next page please�

The Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR) conducted itsfourth seminar of the 2009 series

on 27 April at the 4th floor RDMICBldg, Visayas Avenue, Diliman, QuezonCity with the topic, “Climate Change inDryland”. Dr. CL Laxmipathi Gowda,director of Information ResourceManagement Program of theInternational Crop Research Institute forSemi-Arid Tropics (IRMP-ICRISAT),presented the topic.

Dr. Gowda discussed the effectsof climate variability on farmers'productivity emphasizing that adaptationis the key to address the impacts ofclimate change and to mitigate the

Expert from ICRISAT lectureson climate change in dryland

BAR Dir. Nicomedes P. Eleazar during the open forum. With him are (L-R, sitting) Dr. Manuel F.Bonifacio, BAR consultant and Dr. William D. Dar, director general of ICRISAT. (Inset) Dr. CLLaxmipathi Gowda, director of Information Resource Management Program of ICRISAT serves as theresource speaker for the seminar.

photoby

EA

GR

ON

unavoidable consequences of previousgreenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.However, the cost of adaptation andother measures to address negativeimpacts will increase as globaltemperature increases. Adaptation alonecannot cope with the projected impactsof climate change, Dr Gowda said andcited mitigation as a long term and moresustainable solution.

For climate change mitigatingmeasures in the drylands, Dr. Gowdapresented and modeled the ICRISAToperational research plan (ORP) whichthe institute is using to manage thecurrent climate uncertainty and adaptivemeasures to climate change. Among the

strategies in the ORP are short-and-medium-term projects (2008-2015),designed to help farmers cope withcurrent rainfall variability, and themedium-to-longer-term project (2008-future) for adapting the mandate cropsto grow in a warmer world.

ICRISAT is ahead in terms ofbreeding programs to produce cropsthat can tolerate drought and hightemperatures. Among the crops alreadydeveloped are pearl millet, sorghum,groundnut, pigeon pea, andchickpea—some of which, through afunding support from BAR, are alreadybeing tested in the Philippines forsuitability.

With ORP, investors andfarmers are trained to understand betterhow to effectively manage both therisks and the opportunities of climatevariability and change, explained Dr.Gowda.

Capping the event was themessage of encouragement to theparticipants and attendees given by Dr.William D. Dar, director general ofICRISAT. He cited the need for acollective effort in addressing the issueof climate change. “The basicmitigation measure that we can do rightnow is simply planting more trees toreduce carbon dioxide emission, andthe time to act is now,” he said.(Edmon B. Agron)

DA convenes... from page 10

hundred thousand jobless Filipinosaround the country due to the globaleconomic crisis. Specifically, it aimsto provide livelihood opportunitiesto Overseas Filipino Workers(OFWs) and returnees and otherunemployed sectors in agriculture,such as resource-poor farmers andfisherfolk. Meanwhile, the

is a barangay-based food depot and distributionsystem offering affordable, safe, and

Barangay Bagsakan

quality food products like meat,poultry, fish, vegetables, and fruits. Asa community-participated retail fooddistribution system, it directly linksfarmers and fisherfolks producers to theconsumers.

Agriculture Sec. Arthur C. Yapattended the last day of the activity. Inhis speech, he enjoined the informationchampions of DA to be both proactiveand prolific in spreading the “goodnews” and information that matters to

April 2009 Issue April 2009 Issue

the public. “The existence of theDepartment,” according to Yap,“cannot be felt if its impact does nottranscend the communicationbarriers; impact must be felt by thepublic.” To all the PIOs present, heinstructed them to be quick andproactive in responding to theadverse issues besetting the sectorand to be aware and updated on allthe news that is happening around.(Rita T. dela Cruz)

NEWS NEWS

BAR hronicleC 512 BAR hronicleC

BAR promotes... from page 4

local tastes. It was due to thesereasons that indigenous vegetablesare suitable as cash crops in peri-urban systems, source of vegetablesfor daily sustenance in homegardens, source of new crops, and assource of variation fordiversification of productionsystems and diets.

According to the projectleader, Dr. Liwayway Engle,initiating awareness about thesekinds of vegetables and collectingthe seeds are just part of the initial

steps. The ultimate goal is anincrease in the actual use of these“unpopular” vegetables.

Promising lines are alreadyidentified and their seeds are beingpurified for distribution. Nutritionaltests have also been conducted andproduction strategies are beingdeveloped. In no time, these so-called underutilized vegetables willsoon find their way in themainstream veggies arena and willbe easily known even by non-veggieeaters. (Rita T. dela Cruz)

The proliferation of imported fruitsfrom other countries has led theBureau of Plant Industry – Baguio

National Crop Research andDevelopment Center (BPI-BNCRDC)and the Bureau of Agricultural Research(BAR) to work together to address theentry of imported fruits coming fromTaiwan, China, Japan, Thailand,Australia, and the United States involumes among others that overwhelmthe local fruits found in the local markets.

Local farmers, nursery operatorsand local government agencies inKalinga and Mountain provinces togetherwith the research center forged anagreement to intensify the production ofquality planting materials. With thesupport provided by DA-BAR throughthe National TechnologyCommercialization Program (NTCP), theproject ensures that there will be qualityand disease- free planting materials forfarmers engaged in citrus production inthe Cordilleras. After three to five years,consumers are assured of good qualitymandarin oranges, lemon and ponkanscoming from the Cordilleras in localmarkets.

As the project continues to supportthe cause of BPI-Baguio, it also enhancesthe capability of local nursery operatorsempowering them to be independententrepreneurs practicing their acquiredtechnical information on citrus

Community-based productionmanagement of citrus intensified

production management system withcommunity-based strategies from thecenter. The project is the first in thehighlands on technologycommercialization, which was originallyconceptualized by Dr. Teresita K.Mangli, the research chief of BPI-BNCRDC. Now, operations are handledby the citrus project teams in Kalingaand Mountain provinces.

In addition, the experiencesderived from the implementation of theRP-German Fruit Tree Program in the

Highlands in the early 2000 were usedto come up with more innovative andparticipatory strategies to make citrusproduction more profitable andsustainable. To date, the project isexpanding in terms of technicalassistance provided in the form offarmers' training and fielddemonstrations which promoteinformation-sensitivity anddevelopment-oriented citrusagribusiness in citrus growing areas inthe Cordilleras. (Marlowe U. Aquino,

photo by MAQUINO

Himbabao (Allaeanthus luzonicus)

photoby

RM

AG

HIR

AN

G

The third in the Bureau ofAgricultural Research (BAR)2009 seminar series was held at

the RDMIC Building on 16 April withthe topic “Innovating Institutions forFood Security: Some R & D Issues”.

BAR Asst. Director Dr.Teodoro S. Solosoloy gave his messageto an audience mainly composed ofscientists and researchers from variousstate universities and colleges andrepresentatives from bureaus andattached agencies of the Department ofAgriculture (DA).

According to Dr. Solsoloy,“Innovating institutions is a very timelytopic given the current focus of variousR&D institutions on addressing foodsecurity. We have the knowledge andthe technology to do this, but, certainly,innovation and refocusing institutionalstrategies and policies will have to takea big part in this urgent need fortransformation.

“As the breadth and speed oftechnological innovation increases,expect innovation to be the drivingforce behind economic growth andsocietal development. Institutionalinnovation is essential to managingtechnological change. And we, in thegovernment, academic and educationalinstitutions, NGOs, and private sector,must all play important roles in thisinstitutional transformation,” he said

Innovating institutions for food securityhighlights BAR 3 Seminar Series

rd

Dr. Agnes Rola, the dean of the College of Public Affairs(CPAf) of the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB)is the resource person for the 3rd BAR Seminar Series.

photo by DLEJANO

Dr. Agnes Rola,dean of the College of PublicAffairs (CPAf) of theUniversity of the PhilippinesLos Baños (UPLB), served asthe resource sepaker.

Prior to her lecture,Dr. Rola narrated a storyabout a fisherman and whathappens to him whenchanges take place in thefishing industry. Sheenumerated the differentinstitutions like theneighborhood, the localgovernment, the academe,and the various researchinstitutions and the roles thatthey play in helping thefisherfolk.

Dr. Rola later onstressed the importance ofknowing how the differentsocietal institutions caninnovate to work towards acommon goal which is toensure food securityespecially during times whenradical changes happen in both theagriculture and fisheries sector due toclimate change.

“All institutions of the societymust learn how to innovate and adaptto changes. Changes are inevitable andtherefore cannot be stopped. But we

definitely could do something aboutthe rate that they are going. And this isthrough innovation,” said Dr. Rola.

After the talk, the participantsexchanged thoughts and ideas duringan open forum where the speakeranswered questions raised. (DondonCarlo P. Lejano)

photos by DLEJANO

A forum for discussion is opened immediately after the lecture.

April 2009 Issue April 2009 Issue

NEWS NEWS

6 BAR hronicleC BAR hronicleC 11

Given the bright future for thenatural rubber industry, theDepartment of Agriculture

(DA) has taken the initiatives tosignificantly increase the areas plantedto rubber and its total production ingenerating abundant supply andcontributing significant share in theglobal trade of natural rubber.

Considering the most pressingproblems in rubber seedlingspropagation, such as the inadequatesupply of rubber seeds and the lack ofskilled budders, the Bureau ofAgricultural Research (BAR), incooperation with the University ofSouthern Mindanao (USM), funded theproject titled, “"Rapid Propagation ofRubber via Somatic Embryogenesis".

With Dr. Romulo Cena leadingthis endeavor, the project is aimed atdeveloping a simple and efficient tissueculture technique (somaticembryogenesis) for rapid propagationof rubber.

Field trials of promising clonesof rubber propagated via somaticembryogenesis will also be conducted.Somatic embryogenesis is a useful toolfor the mass propagation of rubber that

Tissue-cultured rubber for rapidpropagation being studied

helps improve rubber yields through theproduction of vigorous, uniform plantsgrowing on their own roots.

The project intends to test theperformance of tissue culture derivedrubber clones in terms of rootdevelopment and anchorage, resistanceto lodging, growth and branching habit,and yield potential.

“Tissue culture, also known asmicropropagation, is the technique ofproducing plants from small (micro)pieces of plant tissues,” Dr. Cenaexplained when he presented their DA-BAR-funded project during the FirstNational Review and ConsultationWorkshop on Rubber RDE (Research,Development and Extension) Agendaand Program held on 6-7 May 2009 atRDMIC Building, Visayas Avenue,Diliman, Quezon City.

Studies on tissue culture ofrubber trees started in 1966. Differentparts of the plant such as embryo,anther, shoot tip, and integument can beused for tissue culture. “In this project,somatic embryogenesis (tissue culture)in for rapid clonal propagationas an alternative budding technique willbe studied,” he said.

Hevea

The study will utilizeexisting methods of somaticembryogenesis following the newprotocols for somatic embryogenesisin . The prescribed steps for theshort method of somaticembryogenesis will be strictlyfollowed. These include: 1) inductionof embryogenesis, days 0 to 25; 2)expression of embryogenesis, days 26to 50; 3) development of theproembryos, days 51 to 80; and 4)maturation of the embryos, days 81 to105.

Five recommended rubberclones namely: USM 1, RRIM 600,PB 260, PB 235, PB 330 are beingused in this study. Plantlets developedvia somatic embryogenesis andmicro-cutting experiments will betested both in the nursery and fieldcondition. Nursery data like rootgrowth and development, girth andgirth increment, plant height andresistance to nursery pests anddiseases will be gathered for eightmonths.

Project implementationstarted in January 2009.

Hevea

(ChristmasB. de Guzman)

photos by RBERNARDO

This year's Lang-ay Festival heldon 1 to 7 April 2009 at thecapitol grounds and major

thoroughfare of Bontoc, MountainProvince showcased a variety ofculture and technologies with thetheme, “Nurturing our Heritage andCulture.” The theme is very timelybecause it depicts the rich and diversetechnological breakthroughs of theBontoks from agricultural systems tofood processing, textile weaving, andproduction management systems andto business and tourism activities.

Lang-ay is the local festival ofMountain province together with itsmunicipalities that combinescommunity cohesiveness andinteractions and celebrations. It isdefined generically as an occasion toshare happiness, promote familysolidarity, hospitality, and nurturefriendships with toasts of home-brewed wine hence, governmentagencies and local communities joinedforces to enhance and support localtechnologies with social and economicrelevance.

During the festival, theDepartment of Agriculture -RegionalField Unit CAR, and BFAR CARincluding Benguet State University(BSU) and invited researchinstitutions, and provincial and thelocal government units contributed tothe occasion by providing technicalassistance to local farmers through theDAbanner programs for rice, vegetables,

Ginintuang Masaganang Ani

Lang-ay showcases Cordillera agri technology

rootcrops, and fruits. Indigenoustechnologies were highlightedparticularly the heirloom rice varietieswhich are organically produced for theproduction and processing of localwine - and some fruit wine forthe merry making and festivities.

Fruits and vegetables areproduced by locals following thetraditionally practiced organicagriculture that does not require anychemical or pesticides. Traditional andintegrated pest management practiceswere used to produce the productsshowcased and sold during the activity.

Visits to local communitieswith their traditional agriculturalpractices were also featured as part of

tapuey

the week-long activity that showingthe skills and warmth of the culture.These were complemented withsongs and dances plus local fooddelicacies prepared from thebountiful harvests of the differentfarming and inland fishingmunicipalities.

Lang-ay also featured thebest quality agricultural produce ofthe farmers, culminating the searchfor the Best Municipal Booth and“Pinaka Best” products. Winnerswere recognized and awarded duringthe testimonial dinner hosted byGovernor Maximo B. Dalog and theprovincial board. (

)Marlowe U.

Aquino, PhD

regional monitoring teams to conduct periodic fieldvalidation and rapid appraisal of the Department'sintervention measures under its banner program

(GMA), and adoptedstringent guidelines on the release of funds to programpartners like non-government organizations (NGOs)and people's organizations (POs).

To maximize the use of funds, DA is shiftingits focus on hard or "big-ticket" projects coveringirrigation maintenance, postharvest facilities, farm-to-market roads (FMRs), and rural extension work, in lieuof "soft" projects like fertilizer support to farmers.

Ginintuang Masaganang Ani

(DAPress Office)

DA Kambingan... from page 16

photo by MAQUINO

April 2009 Issue April 2009 Issue

Tissue culture,also known asmicropropagation,is the technique ofproducing plantsfrom small (micro)pieces of planttissues.

“

”

NEWS NEWS

BAR hronicleC 710 BAR hronicleC

Biotech project to reviveduck industry underway

With the problems on lowproduction and geneticdeterioration facing the

Philippine mallard duck industry, abiotechnology project funded by theBureau of Agricultural Research (BAR)of the Department of Agriculture (DA)is being firmed up to revive this onceprofitable business.

The mallard duck is a multi-billion peso industry which ispredominantly owned by small- andmedium- scale commercial producers. Itused to be the major source of income ofpeople living along the shorelines ofLaguna Lake comprising the provincesof Laguna and Rizal.

The declining marine resourcessuch as snails and fishes and thepollution of Laguna Lake are cited asthe culprits for the decline in theproduction and the deterioration of theduck genetic diversity.

To cope with these problems,the industry is now adopting the herdingsystem in rice paddies and the mixing inof unconventional ingredients in thefeed to offset the expensive butunreliable qualities of availablecommercial feeds.

To help the duck industryrecover, the Animal and Dairy SciencesCluster (ADSC) of the University of thePhilippines Los Baños-College ofAgriculture (UPLB-CA), incollaboration with the National Swineand Poultry Research and DevelopmentCenter (NSPRDC) based in Tiaong,Quezon, proposed the project, “AppliedAnimal Biotechnology for theImprovement of Philippine Mallard

Duck”. Proponents of this biotechinitiative are Drs. Renato Vega, Dr.Angel Lambio, and Dr. SeverinoCapitan.

The goal of this undertaking isto improve the genetic resources anddetermine the effect of feed and waterenvironmental residues on duck-eggproduction.

This project is set to focus onthree areas of study, namely: 1)morphological and molecularcharacterization of mallard ducks, 2)age-related changes in plasma cortisol,estradiol, and vitellogenin of mallard

ducks, and 3) effect of organochlorineand cadmium levels in feeds on thereproductive performance of mallardducks.

Duck sampling, DNA/physicalcharacterization, water and feed residueanalysis, and blood vitellogenin assaysystem are among the activities to beundertaken for this project.

Expected outputs include DNAfinger prints of various ducks, a breedingprogram, and a protocol to measure theendocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs).

EDCs are exogenous substancesthat alter the function of the endocrinesystem that result to adverse effects in anintact organism. They usually stimulatethe liver to release vitellogenin which isan indicator of environmental pollution inan ecosystem. The kinds of EDCs arenatural and synthetic hormones, plantconstituents, organochlorines,compounds used in plastic industry andin consumer products, and otherindustrial by-products and pollutants.

This is a three-year project thatis currently in the pre-implementationstage. (Dondon Carlo P. Lejano)

materials. The center also conductedfive batches of Asha productiontrainings in the provinces of Isabela,Cagayan, Nueva Vizcaya, andBatanes. A total of 333 stakeholdersparticipated and were technicallyequipped. Field days and televisionairings were also done to promote thePOT for .Asha

POT for Asha... from page 1Given the massive promotion

for it is now being plantednationwide. In Region 2 alone, thepeanut is planted in about 47.1 hectaresexcluding some unaccounted for areas.

In Jones, Isabela, where acommunity-based and village-levelpeanut industry continue to thrive,

is already being mass-producedfor processing.

Asha,

Asha(Rene Cris P. Rivera)

photos by LDC

Acknowledging the importance ofinformation officers as conduitsof relevant and updated

information on the Department's latestinitiatives and programs, a consultativemeeting of public information officers(PIOs) was held on 22-24 April 2009 atthe BSWM Convention Hall. TheAgriculture and Fisheries InformationService (AFIS) led by OIC-Director NoelO. Reyes, spearheaded the event.

According to Mr. Reyes, whowelcomed the participants, this activity isa first-ever gathering of PIOs since 1988and considering the important role thatPIOs play in the agency, such meetingsmust be done at least twice a year.

The consultative meeting wascalled in an effort to compel concernedagencies through the PIOs to produceregular updates and success stories on theagency's activities contributing to DA'smajor programs and initiatives. WithAFIS at the helm, the activity is hoping todevelop an efficient, working networkamong PIOs in spreading the “goodnews” and keeping the public updated.

Assistant Secretary SalvadorSalacup who filled-in for Secretary ArthurC. Yap delivered his keynote address. Inthe speech he delivered, he advised all

DA convenes information championsfor first-ever consultative meeting

Agriculture Secretary Arthur C. Yapencourages DA Public Information Officers tobe pro-active in delivering the “good news”from the agriculture sector.

photos by RDELACRUZ

PIOs that as “information champions”of the Department, they must showcohesiveness and coordination inspreading the “good news”. Hementioned key issues that, according toSec. Yap need to be further promoted inthe media. These are: 1) ensure nationalfood security and food affordabilityfollowing the farm to plate formula vis-à-vis the AFMA program, 2) improvecompetitiveness of national fisheryproducts, and 3) sustainability ofresources while keeping biodiversityprotected.

Capping the first day of themeeting were presentations on the

(GMA)Banner programs including rice, corn,high-value commercial crops (banana,mango, vegetables, pineapple, coffeeand rubber), livestock, and fisheries. Dr.Frisco Malabanan, national programcoordinator for GMA Rice Program,presented a report on the country's riceindustry performance includingproduction growth rate from the lastfour decades and rice self-sufficiencyplan and targets based on the PhilippineRice Master Plan (2009-2013) withvarious government interventions.Other presenters included

Ginintuang Masagang Ani

representatives from GMA Corn,HVCC, Livestock, and Fisheries.

Accomplishments andupdates on the FIELDS programwere also presented during themeeting. FIELDS, which stands forFertilizer, Irrigation, Extension,Loans, Dryer, and Seeds is thecenterpiece program that PresidentArroyo launched in April 2008 toraise the national food sufficiencylevel and ensure adequate,accessible, affordable and nutritiousfood for all Filipinos. Thegovernment has allotted higherpublic spending on agriculture andfisheries, particularly on thementioned six major components.

Presentations on major DAprograms and initiatives were madeduring the second day that includedComprehensive Livelihood andEmergency Employment Program(CLEEP), North Luzon AgribusinessQuadrangle (NLAQ), ForeignAssisted Projects (FAP), DAWebsite/Call Center, and

. CLEEP is a proactivemeasure initiated by the governmentinitially intended to cover a few

BarangayBagsakan

turn to page 13�

April 2009 Issue April 2009 Issue

NEWS NEWS

8 BAR hronicleC BAR hronicleC 9April 2009 Issue

Results of SSNM on-farm trialshighlighted at first nat’l review

In support of the Bataan PeninsulaState University's (BPSU) effort torevive and boost the banana

production industry in Abucay, Bataan,the Bureau of Agricultural Research(BAR) of the Department of Agriculture(DA) supported the establishment of atissue-culture laboratory that willproduce, to in economic productionscale, clean and disease-free bananaplanting materials.

With the laboratory in place,BPSU hopes that this will lead toincreased of upland farming areas toincrease the production of bananas,especially theand varieties which arecultivated in the province.

Lakatan, Latundan, SabaQuarenta Dias

BAR supports BPSU banana tissue-culture lab

According to Dr. Delfin O.Magpantay, president of BPSU, thepresence of a tissue culture laboratoryin Abucay will also free farmers fromthe hassle of traveling to other placesjust to acquire the planting materialsthat they need to boost their production.“It will also help agriculturists inintroducing new methods on how toimprove banana production in theprovince,” he added.

As testimony of his fullsupport to this endeavor, BAR Dir.Nicomedes P. Eleazar attended theinaugural ceremony of the newly-established tissue-culture laboratory.The activity was held during the BPSUCommencement Exercises where Dir.

Eleazar was also the keynote speaker.In a dialogue with BPSU, Dir.

Eleazar mentioned the benefits thatthis kind of facility will bring not onlyto the researchers but the students aswell. “The laboratory will be veryhelpful in developing the researchcapabilities of the students and canalso be used for the extension servicesof BPSU,” he reiterated.

Other agencies like theNational Economic DevelopmentAuthority (NEDA) and theDepartment of Science andTechnology (DOST) also collaboratedin and supported the establishment ofthe banana tissue-culture laboratory.(Patrick A. Lesaca)

(Left photo) BPSU Tissue Culture Laboratory inside the Abucay Campus. (Right photo) BAR Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar (2nd from right) and BPSUPresident Delfin O. Magpantay (2nd from left) lead the ribbon cutting ceremony during the inauguration of the new research facility.

photos by AOBLIGADO

To consolidate and review projectoutputs, identify operationalconstraints encountered and find

recommendable solutions, and planupcoming activities for the nextcropping season, the Bureau ofAgricultural Research (BAR) withpartners from DA-GMA Corn, BSWM,UPLB, and SEAP- IPNI, conduct thefirst National Review and PlanningWorkshop on Site-Specific NutrientManagement (SSNM) for Maize. Theactivity was held on 28-30 April 2009 atthe RDMIC Bldg., Visayas Avenue,Diliman Quezon City.

Present were Dr. ChristianWitt, director of Southeast AsiaProgram for International PlantNutrition Institute ( SEAP-IPNI ); Dir.Nicomedes P. Eleazar of BAR; Ms.Julie Mae Pasuquin, IPNI agronomist;Dr. Artemio Salazar, former GMA-Corndirector; Dr. Gina Nilo, chairperson ofthe SSNM Technical Working Group(TWG); Milo delos Reyes, headsecretariat of GMA Corn Program; andTWG members and SSNM RegionalFocal Persons.

The workshop highlighted thepresentation of results of on-farm trialsfrom different provinces. In Region 1, apositive agronomic efficiency of thenitrogen fertilizer was obtained fromthe SSNM treatment, wherein 25 to 29kg of grain yield was obtained for everykilogram of nitrogen fertilizer appliedin the soil. Indigenous P and K in thesoil can support low yield in corn, butthis is not enough to obtain a high yield.

Nitrogen is the most limitingnutrient in corn production. Increasingthe amount of N fertilizer can be anassurance of a high yield in corn, butthe agronomic efficiency needs to bechecked. Likewise, strategies need to bedeveloped that will lower input cost andincrease profit of farmers.

Refined SSNM fertilizer rateswill be applied in all SSNM sites for thenext cropping season as well as thetiming of application were discussed.Dr. Witt further suggested that weatherconditions should be taken intoconsideration during fertilizerapplication, especially in areas prone todisaster wherein in such cases, fertilizer

splits will be done more often tooptimize efficiency of fertilizer use.

Dr. Witt also presented anupcoming software featuring a state-of-the-art and user-friendly system thatwill help farmers develop an optimumplanting density for a certain location;evaluate current management practices,determine a meaningful yield goalbased on attainable yield; estimatefertilizer NPK rates required for theselected yield goal; translate fertilizerNPK rate into fertilizer sources;develop an application strategy forfertilizers (right rate, source, locationand time):and to compare the expectedor actual benefit of current andimproved practices. The software isexpected to be available before the endof the year 2009.

Scaling up is scheduled forRegions 1, 2, and 7 while SSNM willresume for the wet season to the rest ofthe regions.

The program ended with theawarding of certificates to all theparticipants. (

)Edmon B. Agron and

Jacqueline S. Rojales

photo by NDELROSARIO III

determine the least cost combination of farm inputswhile providing sufficient supply of nutritious and safehigh value vegetables in the market.

The immediate beneficiaries of the project arethe marginalized vegetable growers, farmers, andconsumers within the Bataan district. The agribusinessenterprise will be replicated by 100 farmers from thedifferent municipalities of the province.

The Department of Agriculture's battle cry onfood security coined asserves as the goal for the success of the project. Thechallenge, therefore, is to provide nutritious, affordable,and accessible food for every Filipino.

With the project on board, both BAR and BPSUwill serve as front runners for the promotion andcultivation of high value vegetables, not only in theprovince of Bataan, but in the entire region as well.

“Sapat na Pagkain sa Lahat”

(Patrick A. Lesaca)

April 2009 Issue

BAR jumpstarts... from page 1