Volume 13 Issue No. 12 A monthly publication of the Bureau of Agricultural Research December 2012

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

ISSN 1655-3942

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

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BAR hronicleCBUREAU OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH

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IN THIS ISSUE...

Phl hosts international conference on rubber...........

DA, IRRI ink partnership for rice self-sufficiency......

Phl rubber production intensified...............................

Two books on rubber launched...................................

Reducing rice dependency by promoting..................

BAR-supported PNAD Info System.............................

BAR beefs up R&D efforts on climate change...........

DA-RFU XI turns over 6 CPAR projects......................

BAR celebrates Christmas 2012.................................

Santos, Alfiler win Gawad Saka..................................

Mushroom business featured.....................................

Expanding rubber productivity...................................

BAR’s R&D projects in Ilocos.....................................

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Given the promising potentialsand benefits of smallholderrubber-based agroforestry

system, the Philippines hosted the“International Conference onSmallholder Rubber-basedAgroforestry” on 5-7 December 2012at Bayleaf Hotel, Intramuros, Manila.The event was organized by theDepartment of Agriculture–Bureau ofAgricultural Research (DA-BAR), inpartnership with the InternationalRubber Research and DevelopmentBoard (IRRDB), University of thePhilippines Los Baños–Institute ofAgroforestry (UPLB-IAF), and thePhilippine Agroforestry Educationand Research Network (PAFERN). Itwas participated in by rubberpractitioners and experts fromMalaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, India,Indonesia, Cambodia, and thePhilippines. Also present were projectleaders and proponents of rubber andrubber-based R&D initiatives fromDA-Regional Field Units, localgovernment units, and the privatesector.

The conference aimed atcapturing the recent developments inSoutheast Asia with regard to rubber-based agroforestry system. It sought tobring together various stakeholders inthe industry to understand more thetechnical, biophysical, and socio-economic requirements that willfurther improve the landscapefunctions of the said productionsystem.

BAR Director Nicomedes P.Eleazar emphasized the significanceof the conference and its contributionto the rubber industry. “Thedevelopments in rubber research anddevelopment, management, andproduction will enable us to see thecurrent perspective of the rubberindustry in each of the member-countries of the IRRDB. In so doing,it will facilitate the identification ofgaps, common problems, andopportunities that could be takenadvantage of by the rubber researchnetwork and stakeholders in SoutheastAsia,” he stressed.

Rubber is considered as a

profitable agro-industrial crop inSoutheast Asia. It is one of the cropswhich can be integrated inagroforestry system that encouragesthe sustainable use of land. Asreported by the Food and AgricultureOrganization (FAO) of the UnitedNations, rubber, along with coconutand oil palm, has spurred interestamong stakeholders for theirincreasing importance on industrialfiber supply. Furthermore, throughextensive research and development,

CPAR on goat raising

Involving the community inefforts to increasing income isimbibed in the flagship program ofBAR known as the Community-based Participatory ActionResearch (CPAR), and one CPARproject is the rice–corn–corn + goatfarming system in Sto. Domingo,Ilocos Sur.

Prior to the project,earnings of the community onlysupplied for the expenses duringthe planting season. As a result ofthis CPAR project, farmers are nowable to increase their profit as a

BAR's R&D...from page 19

third cropping of corn has beenincluded in the process. They wereeven able to purchase farmequipments that would furtherincrease manpower productivity.After trials, rice-corn-corn patterntopples rice-corn in terms ofprofitability. Cooperators werealso able to learn the advantages offeeding leaves/corn stalks to theiranimals, composting rice strawsand minimizing fertilizer use tosafeguard the soil. ###

Phl hosts internationalconference on rubber

Reducing rice dependency...from page 6

recommendations through varioustechnologies and researches, among ofwhich is the fertilizerrecommendation, a significantopportunity for corn farmers inincreasing yield.

The SSNM analysis acrosssites for white corn has deliveredsignificant results, as presented by oneof the TWG members, Dr. ApolonioOcampo of UPLB. The OFTsconducted in the regions were able to:1) quantify the existing yield gaps inmaize production; 2) quantifyattainable yield and yield responses tofertilizer N, P, and K; 3) quantify thecontribution of Bio-N to indigenous Nsupply; 4) evaluate the agronomic andeconomic performance of an 'SSNMprototype' (SSNM vs. FFP vs. NPK);and 5) evaluate whether Bio-N andorganic matter application can replaceurea as an N source. Generally, theresults demonstrated noteworthyopportunities for increasing white cornproduction in our country, making itpossible to sustain a stable supply ofwhite corn, thus fulfilling theprogram's ultimate goal.

The impact of this may notmanifest in just a snap of a finger, butthe National Corn Program believesthat it will rouse through goodproduction management. SSNM isonly one of the program's strategiestowards corn sufficiency, but surely,through the coming years, DA looksforward to increase in corn production,price stability, increase in farmers'income, job generation, cornexportation, thus corn sufficiency. ###(Daryl Lou A. Battad)

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The rice and goat component of the CPARproject in Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur.

2 BAR hronicleC December 2012 Issue 19BAR hronicleC

BAR hronicleCBUREAU OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH

ISO 9001:2000

Editor:Consulting Editor:Layout:Writers:

Reproduction/Printing:ACD Head:Adviser:

Rita T. dela CruzJulia A. LapitanAnthony A. Constantino and Diana Rose A. de Leon

Ricardo G. Bernardo and Lino Norman D. ReyesJulia A. LapitanDr. Nicomedes P. Eleazar,

Ma. Eloisa H. Aquino, Liza Angelica D. Barral, Daryl Lou A. Battad,Anne Camille B. Brion, Diana Rose A. de Leon,Patrick Raymund A. Lesaca, Leila Denisse E. Padilla,Zuellen B. Reynoso, Jacob Anderson C. Sanchez, Wilson G. Villoria

CESO IV

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Copyright Bureau of Agricultural Research, Department of Agriculture 2012.For subscription and inquiries please contact us: Tel. Nos: +63 (2) 928-8505, 928-8624, 920-0234local nos. 3011, 3012, 3328 Fax No. +63 (2) 927-5691 Email:Articles are also available online, visit our official website:

acd@bar.gov.ph.http://www.bar.gov.ph/barchronicle

BAR CHRONICLE is published monthly by the

Applied Communication Division of the Department

of Agriculture - Bureau of Agricultural Research,

RDMIC Building, Visayas Avenue, cor. Elliptical

Road, Diliman, Quezon City 1104 Philippines.

This publication provides regular updates on DA-

BAR’s activities as the country’s national coordinator

for agriculture and fisheries R&D. It also highlights

features and news articles concerning NaRDSAF-

member institutions.

PRODUCTION TEAM

The Department of Agriculture(DA) and the InternationalRice Research Institute (IRRI)

signified their allegiance instrengthening the initiatives on theresearch, development, and extensionof rice through the signing of aMemorandum of Agreement (MOA) on“Sustaining Rice Self-Sufficiency andFood Security in the Philippines” on 3December 2012 at the AgribusinessDevelopment Center, DA Compound,Quezon City.

The five-year agreement willinclude eight areas of collaborations tobe headed by DA, IRRI, PhilippineRice Research Institute (PhilRice) andother staff bureaus and attachedagencies and regional field units ofDA.

Leading the signing of theagreement were Agriculture SecretaryProceso J. Alcala and IRRI DirectorGeneral Robert S. Zeigler. Also presentwere: Dr. Bruce J. Tolentino, formerDA undersecretary for Policy andPlanning and now the deputy directorgeneral of IRRI; Mr. Dante S. Delima,assistant secretary of DA and nationalrice program coordinator; and Dr.Eufemio T. Rasco, Jr, executivedirector of PhilRice.

In his message, SecretaryAlcala emphasized the significance ofthe partnership of these two institutions

DA, IRRI ink partnershipfor rice self-sufficiency

to reduce poverty and hunger,improve the health of farmers andconsumers, and ensure food andenvironmental sustainability. “Satotoo lang kaya nang Pilipinas angmaging sapat sa bigas…sapamamagitan ng DA at IRRI namuling pagtibayin at palawakin angating pagtutulungan na lalo pangmaiangat ang produksyon at kita ngating mga magsasaka at makamitnatin ang pambansang kasapatan sa

bigas

### (Diana Rose A. deLeon)

,” he said.The areas of collaborations

will zero in on long term rice breedingprogram, development of the nextgeneration of high yielding, pest anddiseases resistant, and climate changeresilient rice inbred and hybridvarieties, conduct of more researcheson modern farming system andtechnologies to improve productivity,among others.

Introducing the use ofgibberellic acid (GA3) andimproving the seed selection process,planting method, and postharvesttechniques increase the productivityand profitability of the nativegarlic, providing higher income forfarmer adapters. Apart from a 1.5percent increase in productionresulting from these efforts, adaptersare able to update farming traditionsthat are both practical andsustainable for each localcommunity.

Garlic processing is also partof the project, where associationslike the San Nicolas BawangAssociation and the Association ofGarlic Growers and Processors inIlocos Norte are taught value-addingprocesses, as well as garlic tradingfor additional income. To date, garlicpickles and flakes and powderedgarlic are among the value-addedproducts created from garlic.

Ilokano

In Batac, varieties of shallotsare being cultivated by using organicfungicides like Antica for increasedproduction and for unaffected andhopefully even improved quality.Processed shallots as part of the projectalso include powdered, pickled, ormade into chips. Another shallot farmis also part of the project, located inSan Juan, Ilocos Sur where R&Defforts are geared towards eliminatingcurrent issues in marketing andimportation of shallot products.

Anotherequally importantproject of BARand this time, incooperation withBAPAMINFarmers'Cooperative,represented by

Sweet sorghumin Batac

Engr. Antonio Archangel stands outas BAR visits Batac, Ilocos Norte.In the project, products such ashand sanitizers and gluten-freesweeteners have been created andare continuously generatingincreased income from theseprocessed products.

Sweet sorghum is a varietyof sorghum grass being developedto answer both fuel and foodsecurity issues in the country.

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December 2012 Issue

Leading the MOA signing are Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (3 left) and IRRI Director

General Robert S. Zeigler (4 left). Joining them are (L-R): BAR Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar;

IRRI Deputy Director General Bruce J. Tolentino; DA Assistant Secretary Dante S. Delima;

PhilRice Executive Director Eufemio T. Rasco; IRRI National Programs Relations Manager Julian

A. Lapitan; and PhilRice Deputy Executive Director for Development Eduardo P. Quilang.

rd

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Harvesting of shallot.

Sweet Sorghum Hand Sanitizers

NEWS FEATURE

PHOTO: DDELEON

PHOTO: ACD

PHOTO: ACD

RUBBER R&D

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FEATURE

The Ilocos Region playshost to a number of touristspots boasting of rich

Filipino cultural heritage.Countless museums, churches,beaches and other attractions rakein tourists from all over the countryand abroad. Region I, composed ofprovinces Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur,La Union and Pangasinan, islocated at the northwestern part ofLuzon.

Apart from sought-afterhistorical and heritage sites, bothprovinces of Ilocos (Norte and Sur)are home to several agriculture andfisheries research and development(R&D) projects of the Bureau ofAgricultural Research (BAR). Morethan a vacation spot, Ilocos earns itsplace as one of the many provincesaboard the food self-sufficiency

BAR's

in proliferate

R&D projects

Ilocos

bandwagon for a better-fedPhilippines in 2013.

As the focal agency for R&Din agriculture and fishery, BAR isentrusted to ensure that the country isable to achieve food self-sufficiencyby 2013. This is possible throughR&D initiatives directed to enhancethe capability of regional field units,local government units, and othercooperators by understandingrecurring issues faced by the farmersand fisherfolk that hinder increasedproduction and income. Throughdeveloped technologies in the field ofagriculture and fisheries, potentials oflocal products increase, as well asopportunities and income for localcommunities.

Staying true to the bureau'smandate, projects in Ilocos Norte andIlocos Sur were visited and

documented by BAR's AppliedCommunication Division (ACD)joined by the Mag-Agri Tayo TVcrew. The four projects weredocumented were on garlic, shallot,sweet sorghum, and goat raising.

Under the NationalTechnology CommercializationProgram (NTCP) of BAR that aimsto transfer available technologies tocommunities, a project site onincreasing the quality of the nativegarlic stands in Pasuquin, IlocosNorte. This project aims to equip thefarmer adaptors with new andimproved technology in producinglarger-cloved native garlic whilepreserving the strength (aroma andflavor) of what is popularly knownas the Ilocos garlic.

NTCP on garlic and shallots

December 2012 Issue December 2012 Issue

By: Zuellen B. Reynoso

Bigger native garlic.

With the passage of RA 10089also known as thePhilippine Rubber Research

Institute (PRRI) Act of 2010, rubberproduction in the country is now beingintensified and is now ready to meetthe challenges of the globallyincreasing demand for natural rubber.

The Department of Agriculture(DA), even before the promulgation ofthe Act, has included the managementand propagation of rubber as one of itspriority industrial crop under the DA'sHigh Value Crops DevelopmentProgram (HVCDP). The inclusion ofrubber ( ) is anindication of the government's thruststo increase the production of naturalrubber which is expected to grow by3.7 percent in the next 10 years.

To attain its desired objectives,the HVCDP has lined-up measures tomerit competitiveness in the worldmarket with the following initiatives tobe undertaken: 1) improve the qualityof rubber products through training andeducation on rubber production andpostharvest technologies; 2)establish/maintain production facilitiesto produce good quality plantingmaterials; 3) increase investment in therubber industry; 4) establish stronglinkages with industry players and

Hevea brasiliensis

Phl rubber

institutions on policy gap analysis,strategic planning, resourcemobilization and capacity building; 5)support research and development onbenchmarking on good practices andproduct development market-basedresearch and research on cloneidentification technique; and 6)strengthen and harmonize the linkageof the rubber stakeholders, amongothers.

Speaking before aninternational rubber conference heldin Manila this December, AgricultureSecretary Proceso J. Alcala said thatthe Philippines can become a majorplayer in rubber production. He citedhow the country has the largepotential areas for rubber cultivation,adequate technical knowledge, andthe country's rubber growers haveaccess to information on propercultivation. Sec. Alcala also said thatindicators showed that the industry isgrowing in terms of production andarea planted. In 2011, for instance,production of rubber was estimated at425,705 metric tons up by 7.71percent more than previous year'slevel of 395,237 metric tons.

The DA is further committedto gradually increase the country'srubber plantation through the

development of new lands foragribusiness undertakings. Asevidence of this, the DA hascommissioned a study facilitated bythe University of Asia and the Pacific– Center for Food and Agribusiness(UA&P-CFA) which led to thefinalization of the draft PhilippineRubber Industry Masterplan. Themasterplan was initiated by the DA/HVCDP and supported by theDepartment of Trade and Industry(DTI), Department of Science andTechnology (DOST), Department ofEnvironment and Natural Resources(DENR), and local government units(LGUs).

The immediate and specifictargets of the drafted rubber industrymaster plan were to increase rubberarea by promoting new plantings andreplanting; improve productivity andquality through adopting goodagricultural practices; and improveinvestment by means of mobilizingproduction intensified

The significance ofBAR projects andaccomplishments hasput up the groundworkfor the expansion ofrubber plantations in thecountry, especially innon-traditional areas.

PHOTO: ACD

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PHOTO: LBARRAL

FEATURE

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activities along the supply chain forrubber, wood craft and cash cropproduction; 6) evaluate the feasibility ofestablishing rubber-based agroforestryfarming system; 7) identifyissues/problems on rubber-basedagroforestry farming system inmarginal uplands; and 8) come up withpolicy recommendations on rubberplantation development particularlywhen interplanted with indigenousforest trees.

The project team has chosentree species that are fast growing,drought resistant, shade and salinetolerant such asand . In addition, the teamwill plant cash crops for intercroppingsuch as , pineapple and citronellaat UP Laguna-Quezon Land Grant,Real, Quezon.

During the InternationalConference on Smallholder Rubber-Based Agroforesty held on 5-7December 2012 at Bayleaf HotelIntramuros Manila, project outputswere presented to the delegates andpeople in attendance. The event washighlighted by an educational trip to therubber plantation in Makiling ForestReserve and Rubber-based AgroforestryProduction System at the LearningLaboratory for Agroforestry at UPLB.

bani, batino, batikulingmalapapaya

sabaItinerary of the trip also included thevisits to rubber nurseries andplantations. Dr. Arturo S.A. Castillo,project poponent, and the entire team,served as the tour guide during thefield visit.

Intercropping and rubber-basedagroforesty has a huge contribution notonly to the smallholders but also to theenvironment. Intercropping helps toincrease the income ofsmallholders/farmers, thus it helps toreduce poverty in local communities.Intercropping with various crops (e.g.pineapple) enhances the growth ofrubber significantly. This particularfarming system also improves soilnutrient status and microbialpopulation. On the other hand, thesignificant contributions of

agroforestry to the environment are ithelps in carbon reduction and itlessens soil erosion. ###---------References

1. Eleazar, Nicomedes P; Galang, RodolfoL., Ritual, Salvacion M.,., CurrentActivities in Rubber Research andDevelopment in the Philippines,presentation prepared for theInternational Conference on SmallholderRubber-based Agroforestry, December 5-7, 2012, Bayleaf Hotel Intramuros,Manila

2. Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS),2011

3. Pamplona, Pablito P., Positioning thePhilippines to Become a Major Player inthe Global Rubber Industry, paperprepared for the presentation during theInternational Conference on SmallholderRubber-based Agroforestry, December 5-7, 2012, Bayleaf Hotel Intramuros,Manila

4. Association of Natural RubberProducing Countries (ANRPC) Report,2012

5. Jacob, James, Monoculture of NaturalRubber and Biodieversity Concerns,presentation prepared for theInternational Conference on SmallholderRubber-based Agroforestry, December 5-7, 2012, Bayleaf Hotel Intramuros,Manila

December 2012 Issue December 2012 Issue

PHOTOS: LBARRAL

investments via various partnershipsand cost-sharing.

The passage of the lawcreating the Philippine RubberResearch Institute is another milestonein the rubber industry. It signifies thesupport being given by the governmentto the industry. The law aims tocomprehensively realize the goals ofhuman empowerment and economicdevelopment through programs andprojects that will increase rubberproduction in the country. Improvequality of life especially in poor ruralcommunities that depend primarily inthe industry.

Under certain provisions of theAct, the control and supervision ofPRRI shall be under the Department ofAgriculture and shall be composed ofthe PRRI Advisory Board chaired bythe Secretary of the DA or hisrepresentative; DA Undersecretary asvice chairman with the followingmembers, Director of the Bureau ofAgricultural Research; Director of theBureau of Plant Industry; ExecutiveDirector of PRRI; and onerepresentative from the rubber

Philippine Rubber ResearchInstitute Act of 2010

producers, and one representativefrom rubber processors, asmembers, to be appointed by thePresident of the Philippines, uponrecommendation of the DA, for aterm of three years.

One of the specificfunctions of the PRRI, amongothers, is to initiate research anddevelopment projects on rubber inorder to address technology andpolicy gaps in promoting a robustrubber industry, ensuring standardin production and meetingdemands for quality rubber in bothdomestic and international trade.

In support to the nationalpriorities, BAR is implementingseveral R & D projects inpartnership with regional researchcenters and universities. Theprojects consist of performancetrials of recommended rubberclones and demonstration ofseedlings nursery and budwood

gardens in non-traditional rubber areasin Luzon and Visayas --- wherein thereare large areas of idle land anddenuded hillylands.

Basic research projects arebeing conducted in cooperation withthe University of Southern Mindanao.Farming systems research projects arebeing conducted in prominent rubber-growing areas in Mindanao.

The project activities andaccomplishments of BAR have put upthe groundwork towards theattainment of the national objective toexpand rubber plantations in thecountry. The knowledge andexperience gained by the implementersthrough hands-on experience andformal trainings and workshops haveset the stage for the continuous supportto rubber research and development.To date, there are on-going 19 BARrubber-related funded projectsnationwide.

The prospects for growingnatural rubber are increasing. Theinnovations made through R & D andother technological interventions areseemingly attracting more localinvestments towards the attainment ofglobally competitive rubber industry.The country's landscape therefore has

BAR's rubber R&D initiatives

the potential and is suitable forrubber production.

Indeed, rubber has afuture. ### (Patrick Raymund ALesaca)--------References:

1. Philippine Rubber Research Institute(PRRI) Act of 2010

2. Draft Philippine Rubber IndustryMasterplan, UA&P-CFA

3. Report on the Current Activities onRubber R & D in the Philippines,DA-BAR

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CONT...

Phl hosts...from page 1

rubberwood has now developed intoone of the most successful exporttimbers in Southeast Asia.

Agriculture SecretaryProceso J. Alcala, in his keynoteaddress, said that there is indeed apossibility for Philippines to becomeone of the major players in rubberproduction because “we have largepotential areas for cultivation, wehave adequate technical knowledge,and rubber planters have access toinformation on proper cultivation.”He added that current interventionsbeing employed by the government tosupport the industry include:expansion of planting area, increasingyields, and boosting the production ofquality planting materials, as well asgiving support to local rubberproducers.

Dr. Abdul Aziz S.A. Kadir,secretary general of IRRDB, Dr.James Jacob, director of India'sRubber Research Institute, and Mr.Rodolfo L. Galang, nationalcoordinator for rubber R&D of BAR,presented keynote papers in a plenary.Their discussion focused on therecent scenario and prospects of therubber industry in member countriesof the IRRDB, smallholder rubber-based agroforestry research anddevelopment, and policy andinstitutional support programs for thedevelopment of rubber-basedenterprises, respectively. Meanwhile,rubber experts concurrently presentedpapers which centered on promoting,adopting, enterprising, and scaling upsustainable rubber-based agroforestrysystems. ### (Anne Camille B. Brion)

PHOTOS: LBARRAL

PHOTO: LBARRAL

6 BAR hronicleCBAR hronicleC 15

or free from illness and diseaseparticularly of a personinvolved in the preparation andproduction of food products,while the latter is a process ofmaking things clean in order toproduce quality and safeproducts,” Ms. Ollaveelucidated.

There are many foodhazards that are eliminatedthrough proper hygiene andsanitary measures. There are the1) biological hazards such asbacteria, yeast, molds, viruses,insects, and parasites, 2)chemical hazards such aspesticides and toxic elements,and 3) physical hazards such asplastic, wood chips, paper, hairand sand.

But among thesehazards, microorganisms areconsidered as the mostsignificant because they areabundant in nature, are not seenby the naked eye, and are eitherharmful or beneficial for thehuman health.

A good way to avoidany complications is theutilization and implementation

of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).“GMP is a set of sanitary guidelines for

compliance in the manufacture anddistribution of food,” said Ms. Ollave.

GMP covers personnel hygiene,surroundings, sanitary condition of workingplace, and the layout of working place. Theseprotocols are applied in mushroom

production and processing inorder to produce healthy andhigh-quality goods.

Before the seminarended, Ms. Ollave discussedsome of the mushroomproduct technologies that aredeveloped and can becomepart of our healthy diet.

Among the productsshown were mushroom freshnoodles, fried noodles, pasta,cookies, crackers, jam,marmalade, pulvoron,barquillos, wine, juice,banana-mushroom muffin,pickled mushroom, and adobomushroom.

The participants werealso given the chance to tastethe banana-mushroom muffinand crackers. Afterwards, theparticipants were requested toevaluate the visual, taste, andtexture impact andacceptability of these productsin order to implementnecessary productimprovements.

BAR continues to

December 2012 Issue December 2012 Issue

Ms. Leslie Ollave of CLIARC highlights the sanitary measures in mushroom production and processing.

Ms. Virginia Agcopra (center), BAR’s technical adviser, awards to Ms. Leslie Ollave (left) and Ms. Emily

Soriano (right) holding their certificates of appreciation.

Our main goal is to at leastreduce every region'sdependency on rice,” said

Mr. Milo delos Reyes, headsecretariat of the National CornProgram, during the National Reviewand Finalization of 2013 CornResearch, Development andExtension (RDE) proposals held on10-13 December 2012 at the AzaleaResidences Hotel, Baguio City. Heemphasized the need to establishcorn as a food staple to help ease thepressure on rice in terms ofproduction and importation.

Meanwhile, Asst. Sec.Edilberto De Luna catered to some ofthe issues raised by the regions,

emphasizing that the Department willbe in support to the undertakings of theresearchers and implementers, as longas it will benefit our farmers, first andforemost. ASec De Luna alsomentioned how DA has been helpingthe farmers and fishers in some of theregions in Mindanao after it has beenhit by the calamity, especially thatthere have been damages relating toagricultural infrastructures. “

,” he said.As part of the Bureau of

Agricultural Research's (BAR)guidelines and procedures on projectmonitoring and evaluation (PM&E)system, the national review assessedaccomplishments and outputs vis-à-visproject objectives and targets;identified issues and problems forappropriate recommendations andsolutions; and identified researchoutputs for promotion, dissemination,piloting, and possible patentapplication.

Aside from the evaluation ofthe OFT results, a workshop among theDA Regional Field Units (RFUs) wasconducted to finalize white cornproposals for each region. With thehelp of the Corn Technical WorkingGroup (TWG), the researchers were

Ang atinpong departamento ay patuloy nanagsusumikap para matugunan angpangangailangan ng bawat isa sa inyo,lalo na para mapalago pa angagrikultura ng ating bansa

able to identify the regional cornR&D proposals for 2013 funding.

Ensuring a steady supplyof white corn and creating andexpanding its market for highquality produce are the main goalsof the SSNM program. Throughpartnerships with the Bureau ofSoils and Water Management(BSWM), University of thePhilippines Los Baños (UPLB), theInternational Plant NutritionInstitute (IPNI), BAR, DA-National Corn Program, and DA-RFUs, a team of researchersconducted R&D for both yellowand white corn, including SSNM,among others.

The establishment ofSSNM has been studied to addressmost of the issues and concernsaffecting white corn production.The most pressing concerns includelow productivity, high cost ofprocessing due to lack of postharvest facilities, climate change,increasing prices of inputs such asfertilizers and seeds, and theincreasing demand of rice in theglobal arena. The National CornProgram, together with otherpartner agencies, has beenformulating policy

Envisioning corn sufficiencythrough SSNM

turn to page 20

The Department of Agriculture's AssistantSecretary Edilberto De Luna shares theDepartment's vision on strengthening theagricultural sector of our country.

Reducing rice dependency

by promoting White Corn

NEWS BAR SEMINAR SERIES

PHOTOS: ACD & PMED

PHOTO: ACD & PMED

PHOTO: LPADILLA

PHOTO: LPADILLA

support all R&D endeavors thatinvolve the development andcommercialization of high-potential food crops likemushroom. ### (Leila Denisse E.Padilla)

‘’

BAR hronicleC BAR hronicleC 516

BOOK LAUNCH

With rubber, being utilized inmany industries(automotive, textile,

footwear, industrial parts, etc.), there isan increasing demand for rubber in theworld market. The Philippines is seenas having a huge potential area inrubber production. As of 2011, reportsobtained from the Bureau ofAgricultural Statistics (BAS), indicatedthat the country has an area of only162,000 hectares planted to rubber, 70percent of which are located inZamboanga and Cotabato. In terms ofproduction, the country is producing106,426 tons of dry rubber with anaverage yield of 1,382 kilograms perhectare. The Association of NaturalRubber Producing Countries (ANRPC)Report showed that the Philippines hasthe lowest dry rubber yield (inkilograms) among the five majorproducing ASEAN countries namelyThailand, Indonesia, Malaysia,

by Liza Angelica D. Barral

Vietnam, and India.In an effort to expand

the rubber industry andgradually increase the country'srubber plantations, theDepartment of Agriculture (DA)has included the propagation ofrubber as a priority through theHigh Value Crops DevelopmentProgram (HVCDP).

Rubber is known tohave a long gestation periodsuch that harvesting is done onthe sixth year after planting. Iffarmers are using monocropping system, they will haveno income in the first six years.This particular case is addressedby utilizing a rubber-basedfarming system or intercroppingof indigenous tree species. On

the contrary, more than 60 percent arestill underdeveloped in theuplands, which may besuitable for rubber plantationsspecifically in Luzon andVisayas. This new prospectalso helps alleviate theenvironmental threats such assoil erosion, landslides, andair pollution.

In the hope ofaddressing this, the Bureau ofAgricultural Research (BAR)funded a project that aims topromote the planting of rubberintercropped with indigenoustimber/tree species andselected agricultural crops inmarginal areas consideringeconomic, financial,environmental and socialfactors. The project titled,“Technology Adoption andDemonstration of Para Rubber( )

Opportunities andchallenges

Hevea brasiliensis

Intercropped with Indigenous TreeSpecies and Agricultural Crops” isbeing implemented by the College ofForestry and Natural Resources of theUniversity of the Philippines (CFNR-UPLB).

Specifically, the projectintends to: 1) establish a nurserywhich produces varieties of highquality rubber and indigenous fastgrowing tree species; 2) demonstratethe planting of rubber intercroppedwith indigenous tree species andagricultural crops in marginal areas inthe land grants; 3) determine thesuitability of rubber in marginaluplands and its compatibility with fastgrowing timber species and selectedagricultural crops; 4) establish a 10-hectare plantation of para rubberintercropped with indigenous fastgrowing tree species and selectedagricultural crops; 5) provideemployment through the various

FEATURE

substratesvermi worms

Expanding productivityrubber

December 2012 Issue December 2012 Issue

PHOTO: LBARRAL

With the growing globaldemand for natural rubberand rubber products,

different project undertakings arebeing implemented around the world,especially in Asia and the Pacificregions, to maximize the potentials ofthis promising agro-industrial crop.

The continuous partnershipbetween the Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR) and the University ofSouthern Mindanao (USM) led toanother fruitful initiative that willsubstantially help stakeholders in therubber industry. This involved thelaunching of two books on rubberduring the “International Conferenceon Smallholder Rubber-basedAgroforestry” held on 5 December2012 at Bayleaf Hotel, Intramuros,Manila. This is part of the efforts ofBAR and USM in achieving a vibrantyet sustainable rubber industry in thePhilippines.

The first book, “ ogue:A Catalogue of Germplasm inthe Philippines,” authored by Dr.Emma K. Sales, Dr. Romulo L. Cena,and Ms. Nilda G. Butardo, is acompilation of useful informationregarding 107 rubber clones housed atthe USM Agricultural Research Center.Details on the morphological

HevealHevea

Two books on launchedRUBBER

description of each clone such asshape of the leaf storey and stem, aswell as color of the latex are found inthis book. Moreover, molecularprofile of each clone was alsoincluded to help rubber stakeholdersaccurately identify and classify theclones. “Hopefully, the informationgiven in the first edition will be usefulto growers, nursery owners, fieldworkers, research and extension

agents and managers,” said theauthors.

On the other hand, the booktitled, “Rubber Production andManagement in the Philippines,”authored by Dr. Naomi Tangonan withinputs from various authors, presentsthe different research anddevelopment initiatives in the countrywith emphasis on the production andmanagement of rubber.

Dr. Nicomedes P. Eleazar, thebureau's director, stated that “as theResearch, Development andExtension component of the NationalRubber Development Program of theDepartment of Agriculture, BAR iscommitted to produce notable rubberoutputs through supporting RDEendeavors nationwide.” The programis aimed at making the Philippinesbecome the fourth biggest player inthe world natural rubber industry by2016 with increased rubber plantationand yield per hectare.

The books were handed overto Agriculture Secretary Proceso J.Alcala by the respective authorsduring the conference. BAR, throughits Scientific Publication Grant,provided the funding support for thetwo publications. ### (Anne CamilleB. Brion)

From L-R: Ms. Nilda Butardo (USM), Dr. Romulo Cena (USM), Dr. Jesus Antonio Derije (USM), Dr.

Abdul Aziz Kadir (IRRDB), Dr. Emma Sales (USM), Sec. Proceso Alcala (DA) and Dr. Nicomedes

Eleazar (BAR) PHOTO: ZREYNOSO

Forester Nicasio M. Balahadia discusses a briefbackground on the rubber plantation at MakilingForest Reserve.

One of the foreign delegates demonstrates tapping

during the field visit.PHOTO: LBARRAL

through andintercropping agroforestry

14 BAR hronicleCBAR hronicleC 7

BAR SEMINAR SERIES

The Bureau ofAgriculturalResearch (BAR)

featured a vitamin-rich andmineral-filled crop that is asure winner for health andwellness — mushroom. Theseminar series on mushroomproduction and food productswas held on 6 December2012 at the BAR ConferenceHall.

Investing inmushroom business is notalways expensive. This waselaborated more by Ms.Emily Soriano of the CentralLuzon Integrated AgriculturalResearch Center (CLIARC)during her presentation titled,“Mushroom Tissue CultureProduction”.

“You can start withfive thousand pesos as aninitial capital for a village-level mushroom laboratory,”Ms. Soriano said as sheexplained about enterprisingin mushroom production.

An edible fungicharacterized by its nature togrow and obtain food fromdecomposing organic matter,mushrooms are highly rich invitamins and minerals thatare beneficial to humanhealth.

The vitamins that mushroomcontains are Vitamin D, B1 (Thiamin),B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B5(Pantothenic Acid), B9 (Folate), and H(Biotin). Meanwhile, minerals such assodium, potassium, calcium, iron, zinc,magnesium, selenium, andergothioneine are found present inmushrooms.

According to Ms. Soriano,unlike vegetables and fruits,mushrooms have the ability to keepand concentrate its vitamins andminerals amidst various processingmethods. This is the reason why

mushrooms have a good market nichein the now health-wise consumerpopulace.

“Ninety percent ofmushrooms consumed in thePhilippines are imported. The averagevolume of imported mushrooms peryear is 150 tons,” Ms. Sorianodiscussed.

If local production ofmushrooms will be optimized, theneed to import mushroom will not bean issue anymore. “Species ofimported mushrooms can all begrown in the Philippines. Temperatevarieties can be grown in an artificial

environment,” Ms. Sorianoadded.

More mushroomproducers and processorswould mean more income forour farmers and moreaffordable and sufficientsupply for our consumers.

The productionmaterials in mushroomcultivation are mainlyagricultural wastes such as ricestraw, sugarcane bagasse,tobacco midribs, water lilies,sawdust, corn cobs, cornleaves, grass and other similarmaterials.

Even though thematerials are accessible andinexpensive, issues andconcerns regarding productionvolume, target market,consumer awareness, andproduct development andprocessing are still present.

In order to motivatethe participants to enter themushroom business, Ms.Soriano discussed theprocedures in mushroompropagation through tissueculture method.

There are four stagesin mushroom cultivation.These are 1) pure culture fresh

mushroom, 2) rapid multiplication(subcultures), 3) spawn preparation,and 4) planting for fruit production.

Among the very importantaspects in mushroom production andprocessing are sanitation and safetyprotocols that maintain the freshnessand cleanliness of food products. Ms.Leslie Ollave of CLIARC discussedthese matters in her presentation titled“Sanitation and Hygiene in theProduction of Mushroom FoodProducts”.

“The difference betweenhygiene and sanitation is that theformer is a condition of being healthy

December 2012 Issue December 2012 Issue

PHOTO: LPADILLA

In support to the Philippine NativeAnimal Development Program(PNAD) and in line with the

paramount goal of the Bureau ofAnimal Industry (BAI) towards asustainable native animals industry inthe Philippines, the Center forEnvironmental Law and PolicyAdvocacy, Inc. (CELPA) launched thePNAD Information System on 10December 2012 at the BAI-NationalSwine Poultry Research andDevelopment Center (NSPRDC) inBrgy. Lagalag, Tiaong, Quezon.

The Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR) through its NationalTechnology CommercializationProgram (NTCP) supported theestablishment of the system. The

BAR-supported PNAD

PNAD Information System isenvisioned to provide pride, health,and wealth to Filipinos by conserving,producing and marketing the country'snative animals under a sustainableenvironment.

The PNAD website presentsto viewers/users information on thecharacteristics and traits of thedifferent strains of each type of nativeanimal including their geographicallocation. Likewise, it provides e-trading for business matchingopportunities and offers a directoryand information on sellers. Based onthe information materials provided,sellers are allowed to advertise theirnative animal products. Buyers, on theother hand, can post their

requirements (quantity and quality).The system also makes available toits users various published abstractsof completed researches as well asother downloadable presentations andother pertinent documents on nativeanimals.

Mr. Anthony B. Obligado,head of the TechnologyCommercialization Division (TCD)of BAR graced the event with BARPNAD focal person, Ms. EvelynJuanillo. In the speech of BARDirector Nicomedes P. Eleazar, asread by Mr. Obligado, hecommended the efforts of CELPA,BAI, and NSPRDC for their activeparticipation, commitment, anddedication to fulfill the goals of

turn to page 9

INFO SYSTEM launched

NEWS

PHOTOS: CELPA

Ms. Emily Soriano of CLIARC talks about the potentials ofmushroom enterprise and the process of mushroom production.

PHOTO: LPADILLA

Top left: Bottom left:Officiating priest blesses the newly renovated building. CELPA and project staff inside the the PNAD Information System Room.Top right: Ms. Evelyn H. Juanillo, BAR PNAD focal person; Mr. Anthony B. Obligado, BAR-TCD head; Dir. Manuel R. Jarmin, DA-LDC executivedirector; Ms. Araceli T. Oliva, CELPA president; and Dr. Corazon T. Aragon at the presidential table. Bottom right: Guests during the launch.

EVENT

8 BAR hronicleCBAR hronicleC 13

Hardwork spells winning traditionMr. Ambrosio Raul R. Alfiler

was actually applying for OutstandingAgricultural Scientist until theevaluating committee found him to bebetter fit for the OutstandingAgricultural Researcher as the awardis given to Department of Agricultureresearchers.

To the uninformed, Mr. Alfilerhas been in a winning streak afterbagging first prize in the scientificposter contest of the NationalResearch Council of the Philippines in2009, best paper in a symposium bythe Bicol R&D Consortium in 2010,and AFMA best R&D paper gold

award during the 23 NationalResearch Symposium of DA-BAR in2011.

Mr. Alfiler earned his BSAgriculture major in Entomologydegree from the University of thePhilippines Los Baños and furtheredhis academic credentials with an MSEntomology degree major in InsectPathology at the same university.

He is currently the DivisionChief of the Entomology-Epidemiology Division of thePhilippine Coconut Authority (PCA)Albay Research Center. Over the past30 years, he has been into coconut pestmanagement research using severalsuccessful biological controlmeasures.

His expertise was put to testwhen he discovered the use of

and to controlas well as the larval-pupal

parasitoid against thiscoconut leaf beetle. With hispioneering research using

rd

Metarhizium BeauveriaBrontispa

Tetrastichus

pheromones, he was able to minimizethe spread of rhinoceros and palmweevil which are often regarded ascriminals of the coconut farming.

Proving that his researches donot sleep in the shelves, hisbiocontrol technology was integratedinto the National Coconut PestManagement Program and hascontributed to more effectivemanagement of coconut pests. Justrecently, his technology on themicrobial control of rhinoceros beetlehas found its way overseas as it hasbeen adopted by the University ofGuam Extension Service in theCoconut Rhinoceros BeetleEradication Project for the Island ofGuam.

Alongside his work ontechnology and informationgeneration, he also provides technicalassistance to farmers, extensionworkers, NGOs, academe, and theprivate sector on how to use thesetechnologies.

With his impressive andnoteworthy accomplishments, hereally deserved to bag the 2012Gawad Saka Outstanding AgriculturalResearcher. One may wonder whataward he is now aiming for in 2013.

A comprehensive search isexpected of the organizers of GawadSaka as they only choose the best ofthe best. What it takes to prepare thedocuments, how it is to be evaluateddemands physical, mental, andpsychological toughness; and how itfeels to win the contest is only for thewinners to describe.

Inkling from the winners

December 2012 Issue December 2012 Issue

“I am happy and proud forwinning. This is the government'srecognition of a lifetime ofachievement and I will continue toconduct my research on biological pestcontrol for the good of the coconutfarmers” said Alfiler. “Your targetclienteles (farmers, extension workers,and policy makers) should be able toutilize your research output for theirbenefit so you can claim that theresearch was worthwhile”, he added.

Meanwhile, Dr. Santos felthonored to be given the award and ismotivated to do more researches. Whenasked how it has changed him, he said“I'm still the same Mudjekeewis as myfriends know me” but sees that thiswould help him beef up his credentialsgiven the opportunity for further careerachievement.“When you do research,look for a topic that has direct impactwhich could eventually spark a changefor the farmers and fisherfolk benefit”,shared Dr. Santos.

----------

### (JacobAnderson C. Sanchez)

References:

1. History of Gawad Saka revised in2011. Management InformationDivision - Department of Agriculture

2. 2012 Gawad Saka OAS and OARCitations. Management InformationDivision - Department of Agriculture

The Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR), as acollaborator on a number of

projects of Bicol University Collegeof Agriculture and Forestry (BUCAF),was invited on BUCAF's centennialcelebration hosted an InternationalConference on Climate – SmartKnowledge Management for theUplands to strengthen its advocacy toattend to the important issues inrestoring and protecting theenvironment, on 7-9 November 2012.Dr. Teodoro S. Solsoloy, being theAssistant Director of the bureauresearch, represented BAR on the saidevent.

The event held at the Leyte

world. It has caused a number ofcasualties which alarms humankindand makes us think of what we cando in minimizing its ill effects to ourlives and to our environment.

The activity opened anopportunity for the exchange ofthoughts on the subject mattersregarding the prevalent effects ofClimate Change to man and otherlife forms. Moreover, Dr. Faye LeaPatria M. Lauraya, BU President,said in her welcome message “Thisconference will serve as an avenuefor a productive and meaningfulconvergence where we could shareexperiences, information andknowledge on climate smartinnovations and initiatives for theuplands”.

Dr. Lauraya illustrated thatthe upland population in the countryis estimated to be 3.18 millionhouseholds, mostly the poor anddisadvantaged sector (data fromwww.seanafe.org) and about 24-30million Filipinos live in the uplands,who depend mostly on subsistencefarming for livelihood. “Philippinesuplands must be conserved for thesurvival of the country”, she added.

The event also opened theopportunity for the display of theposters showing the different

BAR beefs up R&D efforts

(L-R) Dr. Justino R. Arboleda, executive officer of Coco Technologies Corp; Dr. Marissa N. Estrella, dean of BUCAF; Dr. Teodoro S. Solsoloy,assistant director of BAR; Pres. Fay Lea Patria M. Lauraya, BU; Hon. Linda P. Gonzales, Ligao City mayor; Dr. Ponciano A. Batugal, presidentof Farmers Community Development Foundation International, Inc. and Dr. Wilfredo M. Carandang, assistant to the chancellor of UPLB

on climate changeclimate change

turn to page 9

GAWAD SAKA AWARDEES

PHOTO: WVILLORIA

Conference Hall of Oriental Hotel inLegazpi City, overlooking the greatMount Mayon, was well attended byvarious members of LocalGovernment Units (LGU's), NonGovernment Organizations (NGO's),and the Academe form different partsof the Philippines.

The participantswholeheartedly did partake to the saidevent that comes as one of the majoractivities of BUCAF in its centennialanniversary with the theme: “Buildingin the Past, Creating a Secured FutureNow!” in line with the premise that,climate change is an unavoidablephenomenon observed not only byscientists but also felt throughout the

BAR Asst. Director Teodoro S. Solsoloy delivering his keynote speech.

PH

OT

O:

WV

ILL

OR

IA

PHOTO COURTESY OF AALFILER

PHOTO COURTESY OF MSANTOS

CONT...

12 BAR hronicleCBAR hronicleC 9

GAWAD SAKA AWARDEES

Dr. Mudjekeewis D. Santos ofthe Bureau of Fisheries andAquatic Resources - National

Fisheries Research and DevelopmentInstitute (BFAR-NFRDI) and Mr.Ambrosio Raul R. Alfiler of thePhilippine Coconut Authority (PCA) -Albay Research Center bested anumber of other contenders with thetwo undeterred in capturing thecoveted 2012 Gawad Saka OutstandingAgricultural Scientist and Researcher,respectively.

The Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR), the R&D arm of theDepartment of Agriculture (DA),spearheaded the search for this year'sGawad Saka Outstanding AgriculturalScientist (OAS) and the OutstandingAgricultural Researcher (OAR), whichwas revitalized by BAR DirectorNicomedes P. Eleazar as a tribute towell-deserving researchers from thedepartment. The winners in the twocategories will each receive a P1million research grant courtesy ofBAR.

The awarding of winners wasled by Agriculture Secretary Proceso J.Alcala, representing President BenignoSimeon Aquino III, to honoroutstanding individuals, groups andorganizations who have excelled andmade outstanding accomplishments inenhancing the agriculture and fisherysectors. The awarding was held at thePhilippine Rice Research Institute(PhilRice), Science City of Muñoz,Nueva Ecija.

Gawad Saka is an annualcontest organized by the DA, inpartnership with local governmentunits, academe and the private sector,among which are farmers andfisherfolk, to recognize individual andgroup efforts and contributions to

agricultural growth and development.

For Dr. Mudjekeewis D.Santos, all it takes is will power and asteady fishing rod to catch a fish asthe aquaculture and fisheriesmanagement expert made his attemptfor the second time to be named 2012Gawad Saka Outstanding AgriculturalScientist.

It was in 2011 when he firstjoined the contest but fell short intaking home the award. But that didnot deter him from seeking a placealongside Gawad Saka hall of famers.With much tweaking and a lot ofrefurbishing, his profile andcredentials served as a solid proof thatattested to his merit as an agriculturalscientist.

A holder of a BS Biologydegree in the University of thePhilippines Baguio reinforced withMS Aquatic Biosciences and PhDApplied Marine Biosciences in TokyoUniversity of Marine Science andTechnology, Japan, Dr. Santos haspoured in all the knowledge he hasacquired and contributed to thecountry's efforts of addressing foodsecurity and safety particularly inaquaculture and fisheriesmanagement.

To manage the tuna industry'ssustainability, he established a DNAsequence and liver morphology as

Same fighting spirit, differentresults

accurate markers for identifyingjuvenile yellowfin and bigeye tunawhich are critical in fisheriesmanagement. This was published in theinternational journal, Plos ONE.

Because of his research on theEastern Little Tuna ( )that was shared by the Philippines withother Southeast Asian countries, a jointsustainable management effort pavedthe way for conserving the small pelagicfish.

To help the country earn itsstatus as one of the major producers ofshrimp in the world, Dr. Santos madeheadway in producing a prototype of acost-effective early detection kit forwhite spot syndrome virus (WSSV)which causes serious mortality tocultured shrimp.

Another significant contributionof Dr. Santos is on the traceability andsafety of fishery by-products usingDNA barcodes. He has uncoveredextensive mislabeling of fisheryproducts in the market such as

being subsititutedfor which violatesconsumer rights and safety.

With his scientificcontributions, he has been recognized invarious conferences and fora and wasconferred the rank of Scientist I by theDepartment of Science and Technology.He is also one of the country'sOutstanding Young Scientists by thePhilippine National Academy of Scienceand Technology.

Euthynnus affinis

Sardinella fimbriataSardinella tawilis

December 2012 Issue December 2012 Issue

Research and Development of State Universities andColleges, LGUs, and NGOs. The posters captured theinterest of the participants as they showcase a variety ofnew information and technologies that address the needsof the clientele focusing on the uplands.

To give a clear view and keep the participants ontrack of what's happening today, the dignitaries gave theirkeynote speeches linked on the dealings of the differentagencies they are representing in the battle against theadversaries brought about by climate change.

“As climate is a key variable in the equation ofensuring that there will be food served in the table of over95 million Filipinos, we have to think, plan, strategize,and implement the necessary and appropriate copingmechanism. This is the reason why we in the Bureau ofAgricultural Research beefed up our research anddevelopment programs and included in our R&Dpriorities the initiatives that cater on mitigating the illeffects of climate change. One of the accomplishments ofthe Bureau is the crafted Climate Change Research,Development and Extension Agenda and Program forAgriculture and Fisheries or RDEAP. It is an output fromthe series of consultations, meetings and workshops withthe agriculture and fisheries RDE stakeholders.” said Dr.Teodoro S. Solsoloy, BAR Assistant Director, wholikewise served as a keynote speaker. ### (Wilson G.Viloria II)

conserving the rich biodiversity of native animals and forachieveng its vision and mission that are grounded andcentered on the progressive state of the national research anddevelopment on and the conservation of swine and poultry.

“Over the years, BAR strengthens the livestockindustry by supporting R&D projects on native livestockanimals. BAR, BAI, and NSPRDC have been undertaking andsupporting such initiatives. From way back and lookingforward it is assured that this partnership will become strongerwith the constant dedication of each agency in poolingexpertise and resources to reach the goal of a stable andsustainable Philippine agriculture,” said Dir. Eleazar.

Also present during the event were: Teresa Saniano ofthe Secretary's Technical Advisory Group (STAG); Dr. AraceliT. Oliva, president of CELPA; Dr. Rene C. Santiago, centerchief of NSPRDC; Dr. Rubina O. Cresencio, director of BAI;Manuel R. Jarmin, executive director of DA-LivestockDevelopment Council; Dr. Angel Lambio and Dr. CesarSevilla of the University of Los Banos (UPLB); Dr. EdwinVillar of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic,Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development(PCAARRD) and Dr. Corazon Aragon of CELPA, also theproject team leader. ### (Ma. Eloisa H. Aquino)

BAR-supported PNAD...from page 7

Gawad SakaSantos, Alfiler win

recognition

Top left:Mr. AmbrosioRaul R.Alfiler of PCA

Right (4th ):Dr. MudjekeewisD. Santos of BFAR-NFRDI

Top: Asst. Dir. Teodoro S. Solsoloy (center) with Dr. Ponciano A. Batugal (left)and Dr. Wilfredo M. Carandang (right)Bottom: Asst. Dir. Solsoloy views the exhibit posters.

PHOTOS: WVILLORIA

PHOTO COURTESY OF AALFILER

PHOTO COURTESY OF MSANTOS

Top: Mr. Anthony Obligado, BAR-TCD head, reads the message of BAR Director NicomedesP. Eleazar during the PNAD Information System inauguration.Bottom: CELPA staff test the the PNAD Information System.

PHOTOS: CELPA

NEWS

10 BAR hronicleCBAR hronicleC 11December 2012 Issue

After two-years ofimplementation by theSouthern Mindanao Integrated

Agricultural Research Center(SMIARC) of the Department ofAgriculture-Regional Field Unit (DA-RFU) XI, with funding support fromthe Bureau of Agricultural Research(BAR), six Community-basedParticipatory Action Research (CPAR)projects have been turned over to thelocal government unit (LGU) ofRegion XI. The turnover ceremony waswitnessed by key officials from DAand LGU of Region XI in Davao City.

Romulo Palcon, regionaltechnical director for Research andDevelopment, served as the officiatingand keynote speaker. He mentionedhow CPAR served as an opportunityfor technologies to be demonstratedand adopted at the community andfarmer's level and how it is aligned

DA-RFU XI turns over 6 CPARprojects to LGU

DA-RFU XI turns over 6 CPARprojects to LGU

with the food security vision andmission of DA. “CPAR makes everypossibility in filling up the gapbetween hunger and food security,” heconcluded.

Farmer-beneficiaries involvedin the project were invited to observethe proceedings and were also givenproper citation and acknowledgementsince they will be the ones to continuethe projects in their own respectiveareas. Some of the farmers invitedalso shared their experiences,struggles and triumph over the years.According to them, CPAR has provenits effectiveness in carrying out thegoals and objectives of communityempowerment, values orientation,technology adaptation, and socio-economic upliftment.

Mr. Orlando Morales, anoutstanding livestock awardee, sharedhow he managed to send his children

to school. “

,” he revealed. Another farmer-partner, Mr. Paulo Candelado,expressed how the program hashelped in the financial needs thefamily. “

” he recalled.With an expanded farm area, Mr.Candelado has 800 bananas in thefarm.

In terms of technologyverification, Mr. Vic Losano, one ofthe project beneficiaries, recountedhow the program aided him onvarious farm practices such asdeworming, vaccination, and properfertilizer application. “

”he added.

Prior to the formal turnover,said projects were subjected to finalevaluation by BAR's pool of expertsand recommended further to look intothe commercialization aspects of theprojects and technologies developedincluding patent application.

Capability-building trainingsand workshops are deemed necessaryin the pursuit of empowering thefarmers. The bureau continues itsassistance to the LGU of Region XI.BAR as an R&D institution will keepon supporting and promotingresearches such as this, especiallyCPAR, being one of its bannerprograms. The bureau made it clearfrom the start that even after theimplementation and turnover of theprojects, the support will always bethere.

Nursing po angkinukuhang kurso ng anak ko, at akopo ang nagpapa-aral sa kanya sapamamagitan ng kinikita ko saCPAR

Masasabi ko po talagangdahil sa CPAR kung bakit umangatang pamumuhay namin,

Nagingmaganda ang paglaki ng kambing kodahil sa mga natutunan ko sa CPAR,

### (Daryl Lou A. Battad)

Atime to relax and enjoy the yuletide season, theBureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) held itsannual and traditional children's and staff

Christmas party on 19 and 20 December 2012,respectively.

The traditional morning mass started the two-dayfestivities. Giving back the blessings received was theessence of the celebration. In his message, BAR DirectorNicomedes P. Eleazar was proud for the accomplishmentsof the bureau in 2012 and hoped for the continuousexcellent performance of the office.

Highlight of the children's party was the costumecompetition and the gift-giving. The rest of the day wasfilled with entertainment including the face painting,games, magic show, and bubble show.

The second day was consummated for the BARstaff Christmas party.

December 2012 Issue

Twelve divisions/units vied for the lanterndecoration, and song and dance competition. Theseincluded: Office of the Director (OD), Office of theAssistant Director (OAD), Project Monitoring andEvaluation Division (PMED), InstitutionalDevelopment Division (IDD), Planning and ProjectsDevelopment Division (PPDD), TechnologyCommercialization Division (TCD), AppliedCommunications Division (ACD), InformationManagement Unit (IMU), Administration and Supply(ADMIN), Finance, janitorial services, and guards.

Winning the grand prize for the lanterndecoration was ACD followed by the ADMIN andPPDD in the second and third place, respectively. Forthe song and dance competition, the Finance tookhome the grand prize, followed by IMU and ADMINas runners-up. ### (Diana Rose A. de Leon)

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PHOTOS: DBATTAD

PHOTOS: ACD