DAET, CAMARINES NORTE – To showcase and promote innovative agricultural technologies generated by the researches of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 5, the Research Division conducted a Regional Technology Forum on January 30, 2025, in Pamorangan, this town.

With the theme “Makabagong Teknolohiya: Daan Tungo sa Maunlad na Pagsasaka,” the forum was attended by some 120 participants composed of farmers, researchers, local officials and other stakeholders

Lorenzo Alvina, OIC-Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, said that the forum is a good platform to disseminate valuable information to the farmers and other stakeholders and encourage the adoption of these new technologies. Alvina also underscored the financial challenges in agricultural research, particularly in acquiring modern technologies.

The event featured a series of presentations from experts in various agricultural fields. Dr. Arlene C. Alegre, Director of the Queen Pineapple Research and Development Institute, discussed innovative technologies related to Queen Pineapple production. Behilda Balisoro, Head of the Tissue Culture Laboratory, presented the tissue culture technology for the pineapple. Pili production technologies were the focus the discussion of Ronald Coprada, Head of the Albay Experiment Station. Peter Oliver, ACC III and Superintendent of the Sorsogon Dairy Production and Technology Center and head of the Regional Mushroom R&D Center, shared insights on mushroom production technologies. Poultry production technologies were covered by Arlene San Buenaventura from the Livestock Research Unit. Engr. Leonard Andaya, Project Leader of Drones4Rice, introduced to the farmers the use of drones in rice farming.

Marilyn Puato of OPAG Camarines Norte represented Provincial Agriculturist Almirante Abad. Benedicto Palmares, RAFC Bicol Vice Chair also graced the event.

Dr. Ma. Christina F. Campita, Research Division chief, emphasized the critical role of technological advancements in achieving a thriving agricultural sector. At the end of the forum the objective to empower attendees with knowledge of cutting-edge agricultural technologies and foster a dynamic exchange of ideas was achieved.

Value added products which are results of matured researches and commercialized technologies were also displayed in the exhibit booths during the 1-day techno forum. (Angela Mae P. Lafuente – RAFIS 5) (Photo credit: Angela Lafuente)