Volume 9 Issue No. 5 A monthly publication of the Bureau of Agricultural Research MAY 2008

BUREAU OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH

BAR hronicleCVisit our official website at http://www.bar.gov.ph 2007 BINHI AWARDEEAgricultural Newsletter of the YearISSN 1655-3942

Department of Agriculture

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

IN THIS ISSUE...

Prepare the way to young graduates who want.....................1

BAR conducts GIS-RIS training for researchers....................5

DA unveils rice self-sufficiency plan; taps LGU.....................5

Feature: Contextualizing extension in support......................6

DA, LGUs, SUCs partner for collaborative extension............2

Zubiri launches Laguna Biofuel Program...............................3

BAR orients LGUs and NGOs on availing...............................4

BAR’s IPRO holds IP Awareness Training Workshop............8

DA Fruit-Bearing Tree Planting Program launched................9

BAR commissions PhilRice Impact Assessment...................9

CSSP holds 38th Annual Scientific Conference....................10

Feature: Cashew is not just about the nuts...........................11

BAR capability enhancement training held...........................12

BAR hronicleCDEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Thus, suggested Agriculture SecretaryArthur C. Yap to 78 state universitiesand colleges (SUCs) present at the

“DA-SUC Collaborative Extension ServiceConsultation” held at the EDSA Shangri-laHotel on 21 May 2008.

Yap said that to change the flavorand look of agriculture, there is a need toattract young students to appreciateagriculture, particularly the lack ofmanagement and business systems in thisfield.

Prepare the way to young graduateswho want a shot at agribusiness – SACY

“We must prepare the way toyoung students who want a shot atagribusiness,” he stressed.

To do this, Yap suggested thatSUCs to support agribusiness programs forstudents, specifically by creating a curriculumthat would enable students to understand thebusiness side of agriculture. He tapped

National Academy of Science and Technology(NAST) President Emil Q. Javier and Bureau ofAgricultural Research (BAR) DirectorNicomedes P. Eleazar, who were both present atthe consultation, to lead in this endeavor.

Yap also said that the Department ofAgriculture (DA), in collaboration with SUCs,will create a recognition program specifically tohighlight the importance of value-adding inagriculture products.

With BAR leading this activity, Yapsaid that the national consultation oncollaborative extension service is crucial inhastening the transfer of technologies and ineducating the farmers through more effectiveaccess and cost-effective use of information.

“But this consultation meeting is notjust about addressing rice production and foodsufficiency,” Yap stressed. “After all, thePhilippines is not all rice although it is the mostimportant issue right now given the needs forsecurity and stability measures on our end at theDepartment.”

The Agriculture Secretary urged DAto look into the bigger framework andcontribute to the profitability of farmers notonly by increasing yield production but more onincreasing value addition through supply chainaccess. Specifically, he cited profitability interms of value-adding, marketing, and logistics.(Rita T. dela Cruz)

Department of Agriculture Secretary Arthur C. Yap delivers his message during theDA-SUC Consultation Meeting held at the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel.

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Acapability enhancement trainingfor Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR) key officials andstaff was held on 8-9 May 2008 atLoreland Farm Resort in Antipolo City.

BAR Assistant DirectorTeodoro S. Solsoloy, in his openingmessage, expounded on the meaning ofthe word “team.” He explained it usingthe definition “Together EveryoneAchieves More.”

Dr. Solsoloy added that unityand cooperation are the key to aneffective organization. He also stated thatan effective organization is, in general,one where communication flows up,down, and across the organization. Heconcluded by expressing that BARofficials and employees shouldconsistently observe unity andcooperation within the bureau.

Dr. Hamlet T. Dala, coordinatorfor administrative matters, and master ofceremony, gave a lecture on thecharacteristics of the Filipinos. Heenumerated the leading Filipino traitssuch as love for the family, love ofcountry, having great belief and faith inGod Almighty, hospitability and beingalways joyful.

On the other hand, he also citedthe weaknesses of the Filipinos that deterlearning and how to overcome them toimprove their working behavior.

He pointed out that Filipinosstill can't get rid of the notion “Filipinotime,” a commonly observed habitualmalfunction to lots of Filipinos.According to Dr. Dala, Filipinos areknown for always being late, that is whysome foreign countries seem to besomewhat hesitant in hiring a Filipinonational and would opt to employ peopleof different nationality.

He emphasized that self-

BAR capability enhancement training held

discipline, as the answer to the chronic“Filipino time” phenomenon, can bepracticed by being punctual at all times. Thiswould be equivalent to an individual who isnot wasting the time of other people or hisor her colleagues by simply being on time.

This reinforces the old saying that“Time is gold.” As a matter of fact, timeand attention are finite resources, two of themost precious resources that human beingshave.

As a learning experience, anexhilarating activity related to the lecture

was done. This was also facilitated by Dr.Dala.

The key officials and staff firstpulled out a piece of paper from thecollection composed of various kinds ofanimals (dog, cat, pig, horse, cow, goat,chicken, and frog). They were then taskedwith looking for their groupmates orcompanions by imitating the sound madeby the animal they selected. Afterwards, asthe groupings were finally created, eachgroup were asked to think of its groupname, make a cheer, and with oneanother each member's shining moment bytaking into account the inspiration they hadduring that situation, as well as the valueslearned.

The group presentationconcerning each member's shining momentfollowed.

The Administrative Unit of BARcoordinated the activity with the objectiveof providing a venue for relaxation andrecreation to key officials and staff while atthe same time strengthening therelationships and bonding of the staff as ateam.

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(Christmas B. de Guzman)

BAR Assistant Director Teodoro S. Solsoloy opens the activity with a message on theimportance of team in building a strong organization.

BAR staffput intoaction themeaning ofteam effortduring oneof the groupactivities.

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Secretary Yap gives instructions to NAST President Emil Q. Javier (right) andBAR Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar (left) during the DA-SUC consultation meeting.

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BAR hronicleCDEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

The official monthly publication of DA-BAR

NEWS

2 BAR hronicleC

FEATURE

BAR hronicleC 11

RITA T. DELA CRUZmanaging editor/layout

MARLOWE U. AQUINO, PhDRITA T. DELA CRUZ

CHRISTMAS B. DE GUZMANMA. ELOISA E. HERNANDEZMIKO JAZMINE J. MOJICA

ELLAINE GRACE L. NAGPALAwriters

BAR Chronicle is the monthly publication of the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) of theDepartment of Agriculture (DA), which is mandated to ensure that all agricultural researches arecoordinated and undertaken for maximum utility to agriculture. This publication provides regularupdates on BAR s activities as the country s national coordinator for agriculture and fisheriesR&D.It also highlights features and news articles concerning NaRDSAF-member institutions.

RICARDO G. BERNARDOANTHONY A. CONSTANTINO

JULIA A. LAPITANVICTORIA G. RAMOS

reproduction/printing

circulation

MANUEL F. BONIFACIO, PhD

MARLOWE U. AQUINO, PhD

NICOMEDES P. ELEAZAR, CESO IV

consulting editor

head, MISD

adviser

For subscription and inquiries please contact: , ManagementInformation Systems Division (MISD), Bureau of Agricultural Research, Department of Agriculture3/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 Section

misd-acs@bar.gov.ph http://www.bar.gov.ph

Most people, when they talk aboutcashew, refer only to the nuts.And with the growing popularityof cashew nuts as a snack food, it isconsidered to be the most importantproduct from cashew, putting the fruits towaste. Palawan, considered as the cashewcapital of the country is supplying 90percent of the nut requirement.

Owing to the high astringency ofcashew apples, they are seldom eaten fresh,thus completely neglected. Imagine howmuch of these fruits go to waste just so thecountry can achieve the cashew nutrequirement in a commercial scale.

Concerned with the scenario, theResearch Department of the WesternPhilippines University (WPU) in Aborlan,Palawan led by Estrella B. Equiña, thoughtof how the unconsumed cashew applecould gain economic value for thePalaweños farmers. The group of Equiña,in collaboration with the Food ProcessingCenter of WPU, developed a village-levelprocessing to utilize the cashew apple. Thegroup used the cashew apple as rawmaterials for producing profitable foodproducts such as wine and prunes.

The technology uses the fruits ofthe cashew as raw materials in theproduction of new line of products:and . The technology involved thenatural extraction of the juice from the

New product lines from cashew apple

wineprune

by Rita T. dela Cruz

photo courtesy of wikimedia.org

cashew apple through osmotic processwherein the natural fibers and membranesof the pulp filter the undesirable organiccomponents that are responsible for theastringent and acrid taste of the juice. Theextracted juice is now the material use toproduce wine while the remaining pulp isuse to make prune.

The wine is sparkling yellowish-brown when fermented from the juiceextract of the cashew apple and becomesreddish-brown upon aging for more thana year. The developed technology forwine contains 10-12 percent of ethylalcohol.

Meanwhile, the prune whichcomes from the pulp of the cashew fruitis brownish-black, plumy and sweet-sourin taste. The cashew prune is synonymousto the raisins, dates, and plums which canbe eaten as snack food or dessert.

The cashew wine is being sold at200 pesos a bottle while the prunes cost110 a kilo.

To put into operation the village-level cashew apple processing, theTurbudan Food Processor, registeredbusiness base in WPU, adopted thetechnology to commercialize theproduction of cashew wine and prunes.

The project was operated andmanaged by 17 personnel. For twomonths, the group was able to process

Putting the technology into action

300 kgs of cashew apple in a day. In thereport of Equiña, she cited that “theproduction output is 30% recovery yield forwine and 25% for the prunes which isequivalent to an annual production of8,353 bottles of wine and 3,264 kgs ofprunes.” She also reported that the totalproject cost amounted to P 1,339,611covering fixed capital investment of P403,390 and P 936,221 working capital fortwo months.

The project is funded by theCommission on Higher Education(CHED) and WPU. The Return onInvestment (ROI) is 63.84% with a paybackperiod of 1.52 years.

Instead of being a completewaste, the cashew farmers in Palawan aregaining profit from cashew apple.According to the report of Equiña, cashewapple is gradually gaining economic valueof more than four times the value of thenuts. It also contributed to the creation ofjobs in the countryside because more thanhalf a million salary compensation has beenflown into the economic stream of thecommunity.

Since the inception of the projectin 1990, this technology has been adoptedby various Rural Improvement Clubs(RICs) around the country. Among themwere RIC in Bataan, Cagayan de Oro,Roxas, Palawan, and Zambales along withother small-scale food processors.

----------For more information about this technology, pleasecontact Estrella Equiña of the Western PhilippinesUniversity, Aborlan, Palawan Campus. You maycontact her at 0906-8360101 or email at:spcpweb@yahoo.com

Cashew apples without the seeds/nuts.

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is not just about theCashew nuts

“

In his Collaborative Extension Serviceproposal, UPLB Chancellor Luis Rey I.Velasco presents that the collaborativeextension service will be a subset of thenational agricultural extension system inthe country. DA, LGUs, and SUCs preparedCES proposals in support to PresidentArroyo s FIELDS Program and DA sNational Rice Security Program.

DA, LGUs, SUCs partner forcollaborative extension service

DA-SUC Collaborative ExtensionService will be a subset of thenational agricultural extensionsystem in the country.”

This was stressed by Universityof the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB)Chancellor Luis Rey I. Velasco at aconsultative meeting on

on 13 May 2008 at theSheraton Hotel, in Malate, Manila.

The Department of Agriculture(DA), local government units (LGUs), andthe state universities and colleges (SUCs)

DA-LGU-SUCPartnership: Focusing on Increasing ProvincialRice Productivity

prepared a Collaborative Extension Service(CES) proposal in support of PresidentGloria Macapagal-Arroyo's FIELDS Programand the National Rice Security Program ofthe Department.

FIELDS stands for armers,rrigation, ducation and training of farmers

and fisherfolk, oans, ryers and otherpostharvest facilities, and eeds of high-yielding hybrid varieties.

“Agricultural extension is a sharedresponsibility by all and not only by theLGU,” Chancellor Velasco also emphasized.

On the current situation of the

FI E

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Philippine Agricultural Extension Services,the DA-Regional Field Units (RFUs),Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), andSUCs provide technical expertise, extensiontraining, and trainers' technology trainingrespectively, to the LGU agriculture extensionwho provide beneficial tool to farmers. Thisboils down to issues on manpower supply,funding support, technical expertise, andsupport services.

Based on the proposed framework,the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR)will serve as the lead agency for R&D andtogether with ATI, will be the coordinatingbody at the national level, and the DA-RFUsand the ATI regional offices at the regionallevel.

SUCs will be tapped to establishand/or utilize their extension offices and staffto assist the DA in providing technicalassistance, training, and other extensionservices in their respective clusters orcoverage areas. Selected SUCs will beassigned special commodity and thematicassignments based on their strengths andcapabilities.

In particular, the UPLB extensionprogram will assist the rice-producingprovinces of Regions IV and V, provideUPLB technical staff to provinces, put backthe “On-the-Air” DZLB Ag School RadioProgram, and conduct farmer-scientisttraining. “This is to considerably achievehigher yield levels, reduce cost of production,and reduce postharvest losses,” ChancellorVelasco said.

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NEWS NEWS

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Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri, principalauthor of the Biofuel Act of 2006(RA 9367), led the launch of the

Laguna Biofuel Development Program atAnanias Lico Memorial Elementary Schoolin Magdalena, Laguna on 22 May 2008.

The launch of the project which isorganized by the University of thePhilippines Los Baños (UPLB), which hasan ongoing R&D program on jatropha wasled by Dr. Virgilio Villancio. During the

Zubiri launches Laguna Biofuel Program

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri (right) and Laguna Representative Edgardo San Luis (left)lead the planting ceremony of at the launch of the Laguna BiofuelDevelopment Program.

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event, he presented a background on theNational Biofuel Development Program.

The Department of Agriculture(DA) led by the Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR) is spearheading thefeedstock development of the programand has tapped UPLB to collaborate onits R&D component

Prior to the launch, the FirstLaguna Biofuel Development Orientationand Planning Workshop was held at

UPLB. The 16 towns in the fourth districtof Laguna were organized into four clustersas follows: Mabitac, Sta. Maria, Famy, andSiniloan (Cluster 1); Pangil, Pakil, Paete, andKalayaan (Cluster 2); Lumban, Cavinti,Luisiana, and Pagsanjan (Cluster 3); andMajayjay, Magdalena, Pila, and Sta. Cruz(Cluster 4).

A re-echo seminar to present theJatropha curcas production technology andthe particulars of the Laguna BiofuelDevelopment Program is scheduled for eachcluster after the launch. Dr. Villancio saideach town, through the Office of theMunicipal Agriculturist and partnerorganization or cooperative, is expected todevelop its Municipal Biofuel DevelopmentProgram.

“Initial activities include identifying10 farmers with at least 10 hectares permunicipality who are interested in plantingjatropha even without financial support.They will be provided with free seedlings ofabout 1,600 seedlings per hectare as a start-up activity committed by Senator Zubiri,”said Villancio.

In addition to the distribution ofseedlings, Senator Zubiri said during thelaunch that he is willing to support ajatropha oil extraction facility for theprovince.

Also present to show their supportwere Laguna Representative Edgardo SanLuis and Magdalena Mayor David O.Aventurado Jr. (Miko Jazmine J. Mojica)

The Crop Science Society of thePhilippines (CSSP) celebrated its38 Anniversary by holding its

Annual Scientific Conference at the IloiloGrand Hotel in Iloilo City on 12-16 May2008.

In 1970, Dr. Emil Q. Javier,now president of the National Academyof Science and Technology (NAST),founded CSSP “to promote humanwelfare through discovery anddissemination of knowledge concerningthe nature, utilization, improvement, andinterrelationships of plants and theirenvironment, and … the people.”

The 38 CSSP anniversary had“Environmental Sustainability for GlobalCompetitiveness through Crop Science”for its theme. The theme focused on thecentral concern of the upstream,downstream, and technology adoptionresearches conducted by crop scientistsin the country.

The event was highlighted byplenary sessions, scientific paperpresentations held in concurrent sessions,farmers' forum, scientific posters exhibit,presentation of finalists in the Best PaperCompetition, induction of CSSP officersfor 2008-2009, and the Awards Night.

The 245 participants includedscientists, researchers, students, andpolicymakers from the academe,government, and research institutions, aswell as representatives from the privatesector and local government units led byIloilo Governor Neil Tupas and IloiloCity Mayor Jerry Treñas.

During the Awards Night, the2008 CSSP Achievement Awards werebestowed on the following: Dr. Rita P.

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CSSP holds 38 Annual Scientific Conference in Iloiloth

Laude (University of the Philippines LosBaños) for teaching; Dr. Rolando T. Cruz(Philippine Rice Research Institute) forresearch; Dr. Aladino L. Leccio (Capiz StateUniversity) for extension; Dr. Alvaro M.Pamplona (International Rice ResearchInstitute) and Ms. Flora A. Jarilla (Bureau ofPlant Industry) for technology development;Dr. Manuel G. Gaspar (IRRI), recipient ofthe Sant S. Virmani Hybrid Rice Award; andDr. Sosimo Ma. Pablico, recipient of theSpecial Citation for Agricultural Journalism.

The newly elected CSSP president,Rhodora Aldemita, PhD, and outgoingpresident Jose Hernandez, PhD, led theconferment of awards for the Best Posterand Best Paper under different categories asfollows:

For the Best Poster Competition,the poster,

(FP Rodriguez, MBPanabang, et al.) won in the socio-economicscategory;

A Feasibility Study on Establishing aVirus-Free Banana Seedling Propagation Facility inBay, Masaya, Laguna

Congressional Initiatives for Sustainable

and Productive Rice Farming in the 4 District ofNueva Ecija: The Pilot Site Experience

Conversion of Rice MegaVarieties to Submergence Tolerance with the Sub1Locus

CO2 CompensationPoint in the Wild Species of Rice

Improving Farmer's Lives through Partnership:The Nueva Ecija Experience

Dynamics of Fruit Fly andBorer Infestations in Relation to their BiologicalControl Agents and Host Jackfruit Phenology

High Amylase Activity and HighEthylene Production in Rice Tolerant of Floodingat Germination and Early Seedling Stage

(Miko Jazmine J. Mojica)

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(OCMalonzo, RW Antonino, et al.), technologyadoption category;

(DL Sanchez, AM Pamplona, et. al.),downstream category; and

(MA Dionara,PP Pablico, et al.), upstream category.

For the Best Paper competition,

(RB Miranda andCG Abadilla) won in the technologyadoption category;

(CSde la Cruz, CS Cotillas, et al.), downstreamcategory; and

(ESElla, GV Vergara, and AM Ismail),upstream category.

The Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR) sponsored the eventtogether with the Department of

Agriculture-Regional FieldUnit VI (DA-RFU VI),National Mango Researchand Development Center,Aklan State University,Central Philippine University,Farmers CommunityDevelopment Foundation,City Government of Iloilo,Provincial Government ofIloilo, Provincial Governmentof Guimaras, Office of theProvincial Agriculturist, andthe Provincial TourismOffice.

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Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas delivers his message during the opening ceremony of the 38 CSSP ScientificConference. Sitting from left were incoming CSSP President Rhodora Aldemita; OIC RTD of DA-RFU VI JoyceWendam, and outgoing CSSP President Jose Hernandez.

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Incoming CSSP President Rhodora Aldemita looks on atthe Best Paper Finalists displayed at the exhibit hall.

DA, LGUs...from page 2

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Agriculture Secretary Arthur C. Yap (third from left) poses with SUC presidents duringthe culminating activity of the DA-LGU Partnership Meeting, namely: (L-R) RubenSevilleja (CLSU), Philip Ibarra (TCA), Romeo Quilang (ISU), and Honorio Soriano, Jr.(PAC). rogramDevelopment Division Head Carmencita V. Kagaoan (2nd from right).

With them are BAR Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar (right) and BAR s P

In closing, he emphasized that“research and extension must becomplementary and must be farmer need-driven and location specific-oriented.” Also, theDA-LGU-SUC partnership aims to focus onFarmer-Scientist, Farmer Field School, andDA-BAR On-Farm Research.

SUC presidents present in the eventwere Drs. Miriam Pascua (Mariano MarcosState University), Romeo Quilang (Isabela StateUniversity), Ruben Sevilleja (Central LuzonState University), Honorio Soriano (PampangaAgricultural College), Philip Ibarra (TarlacCollege of Agriculture), Marito Bernales(Camarines Sur State Agricultural College),Virgilio Oliva (University of SouthernMindanao. Also present were vice presidents,Drs. Rogelio Matalang (Cagayan StateUniversity) and Anthony Penaso (CentralMindanao State University).

These are some of the 78 SUCsidentified as potential partners in the R&Dcomponent of the FIELDS program toprovide farmers with education and training tofurther increase their yields and lower theirproduction costs. (Ma. Eloisa E. Hernandez)

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With its mandate to coordinateand fund agricultural researchand development activities anddevelop partnerships with local andinternational research organizations, theBureau of Agricultural (BAR) conductedan orientation on its CompetitiveResearch Grant Manual (CRGM) on 29May 2008 at the Palazzo de Laoag Hotelin Laoag City.

The orientation was intended forthe local government unit (LGU) andnon-government organizations (NGOs)in Region 1 after the Bureau has expandedthe implementation of its Community-based Participatory Action Research(CPAR) activities to the LGUs.

BAR Assistant Director TeodoroSolsoloy, in his opening at the meeting,stressed the importance of research anddevelopment (R&D) activities in the

BAR orients LGUs and NGOs on

availing themselves of research grants

modernization of the agriculture andfisheries sector.

Ms. Salve Ritual and Ms. ElvieRapada of BAR's Program DevelopmentDivision (PDD) led the orientation anddiscussed the overview of the CRGM; theRDE grant system along with itsimplementing guidelines; specific guidelinesfor the private sector and NGO, format onthe preparation of proposals; and themonitoring and evaluation guidelines. Alsodiscussed was the revised set of guidelineson how NGOs and LGUs can availthemselves of the CPAR.

The CRGM is a component ofthe Diversified Farm Income and MarketDevelopment Project (DFIMDP), whichaims to stimulate rural growth and farmers'income by enhancing the competitivenessof Philippine agriculture and fisheries.

In accordance with the unified

R&D implementation specified in theAgriculture and Fisheries ModernizationAct (AFMA), CRGM was designed byBAR to strengthen the system ofcoordination and monitoring of projects inagriculture and fisheries. It provides theguidelines, rules and procedures to accessuse and implement R&D projects. Themanual likewise complements andenhances the processes, procedures, andoperational systems in agenda setting,proposal preparation and submission,evaluation, review, and monitoring ofprojects under the National R&D Systemfor Agriculture and Fisheries (NaRDSAF),

The orientation of CRGM forthe LGUs and NGOs kicked off inNovember last year in Legazpi City. Earlythis year, another CRGM orientation wasconducted for Region 9 in ZamboangaCity. (Ellaine Grace L. Nagpala)

Ret. Gen. Marcelo Blando, chair of the RAFCraises his query on availing research grantsfor the private sector. The participants pose for their group photo.

photo by ENAGPALA

The Department of Agriculture's(DA) Fruit-Bearing Program waslaunched on 21 May 2008 at the DA

Southern Tagalog Integrated AgriculturalResearch Center (STIARC) in Tanay, Rizal.

The program's objective is toconduct fruit-bearing tree planting activitiesannually starting this year as a major activityin celebration of the Farmers' andFisherfolk Month (May), particularly in theweek of the Feast of St. Isidore (May 15-21), considered the patron saint of farmers.The activity will also help DA ensure foodsecurity, minimize poverty rate, andaccelerate provision of food with propernutrition.

This is line with the GreenPhilippines Program (GPP), a directivefrom the President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, which points toward minimizingthe impacts of global warming, adopting aplanting site for development, care andmaintenance, and protection of theenvironment; assist the advocacy campaignto ensure awareness, appreciation and

DA Fruit-Bearing Tree Planting Program launched

participation by all related sectors,and provide other support that maybe needed by the program.

GPP started in December of2007. In terms of participationand specificity of function, GPP

includes collaboration

and extension workbetween the DA and the Department ofEnvironment and Natural Resources(DENR). DENR takes the lead andundertakes the necessary coordination onthe participation of various agencies.

All DA agencies andinstrumentalities attended the launch ofthe DA Fruit-Bearing Tree PlantingProgram. Participating agencies includethe Office of the Secretary, eight DA staffbureaus, 21 attached agencies and 16Regional Field Units (RFUs).

Representing the Bureau ofAgricultural Research (BAR) was Mr.Rolando V. Labios, coordinator forresearch of the Research Coordination

Division (RCD). He is also the GPP focalperson and the Technical Working Group(TWG) committee chair of the program.

Quoting DA Secretary Arthur C.Yap, he said that “this program aims to plantand maintain at least 10 thousand fruit-bearingtrees per year.”

BAR participants in theprogram launch led by Mr. Labioswere Lorenzo Manuel, RonnieRosales, Venencio Almoile, RobertNavarro, Ernesto Cruz Jr., andJovanni Lipogpog.

Mr. Labios said that fullparticipation and support areexpected from all the agenciesinvolved since the program willcontribute largely to the rehabilitationof the environment and prevent soilerosions through planting orreforestation.

It is, therefore, acommitment of all participating

agencies to: 1) look for a place that they canutilize and nurture; 2) prepare their plantingsites and prepare their own materials; 3)monitor and maintain the sites; and 4) harvestwhen the right time comes and put theproduce in good use.

Additionally, the fruit trees ought tobe actually planted by the key officials andstaff of the unit concerned, and shall benamed after the authority who planted the treeif preferred.

Among the trees planted werecashew, jackfruit, citrus, , andguyabano. Mango, though included in the listof fruit trees considered, was not yet plantedduring the activity.

duhat, bignay

(Christmas B. de Guzman)

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LABIOS

The Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR), with mandateto continuously assist R&D

institutions for the promotion andadvancement of scientific technologiesand breakthroughs in agriculture andfisheries, supports the External Reviewof the Philippine Rice ResearchInstitute (PhilRice) Impact Assessment.

Serving as easy referencematerials for PhilRice Board ofTrustees and its clientele, thepublication was prepared in partnershipwith the Conservation andDevelopment Specialists Foundation,

BAR commissions PhilRice Impact AssessmentInc. (CDSFI).

BAR Director Nicomedes P.Eleazar, in his message, cited thepublication as commendable effortbecause it presents a compilation of thecomments and recommendations raisedby external experts of PhilRice.

“This is aimed at attaining ricegrowth target and further improvePhilRice's research and developmentinitiatives, mechanisms in its internaloperations, collaborative works, andinformation and knowledge managementand dissemination,” Dir. Eleazar added.

In return, PhilRice Director

Leocadio S. Sebastian sees the reviewresults as “congruent to the perceiveddirections, which are to enhance corecompetence in rice R&D, and the ability toconnect with rice farmers and otherstakeholders so that constraints to higherrice productivity and sustainability are bestaddressed by R&D thrusts.”

This endeavor is attuned to theDA's Five Development Pillars forAgriculture and Fisheries. These include:1) market access, 2) postharvest andstorage, 3) credit facilitation, 4) technologyand extension, and 5) irrigation. (Ma.Eloisa E. Hernandez)

NEWS NEWS

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Agriculture Secretary Arthur C.Yap has unveiled theDepartment of Agriculture'srice self-sufficiency plan for 2009-2010tapping the local government unit(LGU) technicians in the country.

This he made official through aMemorandum of Agreement (MOA) onthe Detail of Extension Workers withthe League of Provinces of thePhilippines (LPP) which was signedduring a consultative meeting on DA-LGU Partnership: Focusing onIncreasing Provincial Rice Productivityon 13 May 2008 at the Sheraton Hotel,in Malate, Manila.

The MOA states that“agricultural extension workers shall bedetailed with the DA – Regional FieldUnits (RFUs) to undertake agriculturaldevelopment of the province.”

DA and LPP forged anagreement on detailing agriculturalextension workers on a full-time basis tothe DA-Regional Offices to intensify thepalay-production program over the nextfive cropping seasons.

Secretary Yap considers thegovernors as the country's new “ricechampions.” They shall provide overallleadership in the development and

As a continuing advocacy tocomply with the request ofscientist-researchers and otheragencies for Intellectual Property (IP)awareness training and policy formulation,the Intellectual Property Rights Office(IPRO) of the Bureau of AgriculturalResearch (BAR) held a training workshopon 08 May 2008 in the Commission onHigher Education-Autonomous Regionfor Muslim Mindanao (CHED-ARMM).

This was held at the MamituaSaber Research Center of the MindanaoState University (MMSU) in Marawi City.

Dr. Carmencita B. Aquino, Chiefof the Technical Services of CHED-ARMM and a former participant in the IPAwareness Seminar Workshop conductedfor the Regional Research, Developmentand Extension Network (RRDEN) in theDepartment of Agriculture-AutonomousRegional Muslim Mindanao IntegratedAgricultural Research Center (DA-ARMMIARC) in Cotabato City in 2007,had earlier requested BAR to implementthe IP awareness training workshop for allthe colleges and schools in their regions.

The training workshop wasaimed to give the participants anunderstanding of what IP is and itssignificance, which includes social,economic and institutional. BAR officialsthat facilitated the training workshop wereDr. Andrea B. Agillon, head of IPRO;Atty. James Dennis C. Gumpal,Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) andlegal counsel; and Leilani D. Pelegrina,

BAR's IPRO holds IP Awareness Training Workshop in Marawi City

IPRO technical staff.Dr. Sitti-Ayesha Askalani,

Commissioner II of CHED-ARMM,delivered the opening message. Sherepresented the Regional Chairman ofCHED-ARMM.

Dr. Agillon, as a resource person,discussed topics on IP management and itsrelevance to economic development, patentsand utility model, patent document andprior art search. Atty. Gumpal talked aboutIP policy formulation, the laws governingIPR, and preparation of the draft IP Policy.

IP was described as the productsof the mind. It can be ideas, images,inventions, symbols, designs, technologies,or literary and artistic works. IPmanagement includes all activities thatscientists and researchers do with IP.

Effective IP managementreinforces research and development (R&D)system in promoting further creativity,facilitating transfer of technology,promoting business enterprises, encouragingmarket access, attracting foreign and localinvestments, and sustaining fund flow toR&D sector.

IPR has a vital role in ensuring thatit is given proper protection throughregistration with the Intellectual PropertyOffice (IPO) of the country. It provides asecure environment in which the generalpublic could have access to high qualityresearch without apprehension that theoriginal work may not be acknowledged.

On the issue of acquiringintellectual property rights, Dr. Agillon

emphasized that filing application for IPRdoes not negate the scientist frompublishing their researches. However, sincethe rule in the Philippines is “first to file,”just like most countries in the world exceptthe United States, scientists can immediatelypublish their researches after filing for IPR.The underlying rule is 'patent-protect-publish-profit,'” stated Dr. Agillon.

All the 55 participants in thetraining are senior administrators of CHED.Many are either the president of theircollege or the dean, while the rest holdsenior positions.

Realizing the importance of IPmanagement and the underlying IPR, theparticipants, in turn, gave a positiveresponse in the exercise on IP Policyformulation.

IP Policy embodies the scope ofIPR, the level of ownership, the relationshipof scientists to the organization in terms ofIPR, and the sharing schemes for theroyalties and benefits.

“As a result of the trainingworkshop, the participants signified theirintention of doing the real IP Policy themoment they return to their respectiveeducational institution, and they will beincorporating all the detailed requirementsof a policy.” Dr. Agillon said. “We assuredthe participants that further help in therefinements of their IP Policies is availableif they wish more advice,” she added.

Assistance in IP management isone of the services rendered by BAR IPRO.(Christmas B. de Guzman)

DA unveils rice self-sufficiency plan; taps LGU technicians

implementation of provincial self-sufficiency plan using the national riceprogram framework.

Under the MOA, theDepartment will provide theadministrative, operational, and technicalsupervision over the detailed agriculturalextension workers, including the approvalof travel orders, daily time record andleave application, individual performancetargets and ratings, and attendance totrainings, seminars, and meetings.

Also highlighting the event was thepronouncement of Executive Order(E.O.)723 signed by President GloriaMacapagal-Arroyo that monetizes the P12.5billion in Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA)funds to LGUs for the DA's Rice Self-Sufficiency Program. This represents theamount still unremitted in 2001 and 2004.

In return, governors pledged toutilize a part of the fund to acquire certifiedseeds, and fertilizers, and construct post-harvest facilities. (Ma. Eloisa E. Hernandez)

The activity was culminated with the signing of the MOA between DA and theLeague of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP).

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BAR conducts GIS-RS training for researchers

The utilization and application of thegeographic information system andremote sensing (GIS-RS) is gainingmomentum, especially in research anddevelopment. GIS-RS' application in the fieldof physical sciences has increased in scope --covering agriculture and fisheries, environmentand natural sciences, defense and security, andengineering and industry, etc. These areas areall supported and developed through the useof modern-day innovative and dynamictechnologies to ensure effective andappropriate decision making.

GIS is a strategy designed tointegrate information and helps in makingdecisions through the means of spatialreferences and data analysis. This is furthercomplemented by geographic data which aretranslated information for interpretation,analysis and packaging.

On the other hand, remote sensing(RS) is the science and art of obtaininginformation about an object, area, orphenomenon through the analysis of data by adevice that is not in contact with the object,area, or phenomenon under investigation.

Based on this, the Bureau ofAgricultural Research (BAR) designed a series

of GIS-RS training program for agricultureand fishery researchers for its maximumutility.

The training series is a follow-upactivity of BAR's previous capability buildinginitiatives in support of the Agriculture andFisheries Research and DevelopmentInformation System (AFRDIS) implementedin three major cluster throughout the countrysince 2003.

This year, the integration of GISand RS is a welcome development. RS databecomes a regular component of geodatabase servers of the agriculture andfisheries GIS (AFGIS) which BAR intends tostrengthen through the AFRDIS.

On the part of the regionalintegrated agriculture and fisheries researchcenters (RIARCs) and state universities andcolleges (SUCs), remotely sensed data alongwith global positioning satellite (GPS) arevaluable tools in the implementation ofagricultural and fisheries projects. Sitecharacterization coverage is designed toextrapolate research domain and acquireupdated geographic data in a shortest span oftime.

The training aims to enhance thecapability of the RIARC and SUC staffs on GIS-RS on correct handling, processing and analysisof data necessary for agriculture and fisheriesdevelopment. The training will have threebatches representing the country's three majorgeographical zones – Luzon, Visayas andMindanao.

The first batch will be conducted on19-23 May 2008 at the University of thePhilippines Visayas in Miag-ao, Iloilo. This willbe followed by the Luzon Cluster on 3-6 June2008 at the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC)Headquarters in the Science City of Munoz,Nueva Ecija; and the Mindanao Zone on 16-20June at the University of Southern Mindanao inKabacan, North Cotabato.

Participants are encouraged to preparetheir respective research center topographic mapsincluding the research sites of BAR-fundedprojects and a three-year AFGIS proposal to beincluded in the overall AFRDIS program beingcoordinated and managed by BAR.

With these in the pipeline, the use ofGIS-RS handled by trained staff will surelycontribute a lot in making agriculture andfisheries responsive to sustainable developmentwith the latest information and communicationtechnologies. (Marlowe U. Aquino, PhD)

FEATURE FEATURE

BAR hronicleC6 BAR hronicleC 7

The recently concluded Departmentof Agriculture – State Universitiesand Colleges (DA-SUC)

Collaborative Extension ServiceConsultation held on 21 May 2008 at theEDSA Shangri-la Hotel, 1 Garden Way,Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City led tothe new direction of Philippine agricultureand fisheries extension service with thestrong support coming from the localgovernment units at the provincial andmunicipal levels. Because of the pressingconcern to improve the delivery of theservice, the context of extension has beenplaced in question, including its discourseto incorporate ideas, trends, directions,lesson learned, and experiences ofindividuals and organizations involved.

The concept of extension hastwo basic elements. First, extension isviewed simply to provide or extendassistance in the form of information,technology, or even product to improve anexisting practice. However, this has beenquestioned when one considers the end-users of technologies and the people whoprovide them. Second, extension must beviewed according to the intended clientele

What do we mean by contextualizingextension?

Contextualizing extension in supportof agriculture and fishery R&D

by Marlowe U.Aquino, PhD

and outputs derived. This may bequestioned again, especially when thereare no changes happening around and tothe clientele as results unfold withinexisting domain such as existingknowledge, enhanced skills, positiveattitude, and improved behavior.

The two arguments arecomplementary. However, there seems tobe a lot confusing when extension in itslimited form does not go beyond scopeand application.

This is the very reason whyexperts are now questioning the contextof extension especially in the area ofagriculture and fisheries development. Itscontext may be placed arbitrarily to testwhen there is a wider scope – that is, acommunity ably utilizing, organizing, andapplying varied aspects of extensionmodalities. Furthermore, extension couldbe as complex or may be simple enoughdepending on what, how, and whomanages the extension service foragriculture and fisheries development.

In essence, extension goesbeyond delivery of technology, training offarmers or fisherfolk, coordination withkey players and stakeholders. Extensionnow incorporates the aspect of researchby looking at the changes happening to

the end-user of technology and itscommunities, management of informationbeing shared and exchange to effect changeand the proper management of resources.Extension could not only deal with theclientele alone but the interaction andrelationships occurring, maintained anddeveloped while resources are used andsystems are in place. This could only bedone if all actors are directly involved andparticipate in the delivery of informationor technology to intended users.

The best way to determine thetype of extension modality in use is toexamine whether the key players share acommon vision and goal of service. Theymust understand the intricacies ofmanagement that involve the changes inKNOWLEDGE – SKILLS –ATTITUDES and ultimately –BEHAVIOR of the stakeholders.

Extension workers anddevelopment practitioners must nowunderstand the process of delivery andhow the delivered product—whether theseare information, technology or process—ismanaged according to user's preferenceand requirements. Most often, it is always

Use and application of extensionservice

one sided or singled out mechanism;meaning -- product delivery. As a result,there is no extension service whichultimately considers the client. Nowadays,two factors are incorporated in extensionservice management – the end-users andthe process of management.

In order to have maximumutilization of extension service, actors mustset the goal of service, processes tomanage, and activities to implement. Thesewould give a holistic and comprehensiveprogram of extension service. Trainpeople as needed and appropriate to theirneeds, provide avenues for improvement,ensure activities are well participated in andpeople are actively involved. Only then willyou see that these interventions andinnovations in agriculture and fisheries aredone through effective and efficient

extension service, including itsmanagement.

In terms of application,extension service only becomes effectivewhen tools, techniques, and strategies areused properly and timely. People engagedin the process must bear in mind that theycannot effectively perform their roles andresponsibilities if these aspects are notincorporated in the whole concept ofextension. Only appropriate and timelyutilization and application of these factorswill ensure extension service andmanagement at their best.

Effective mechanism or processin any development program requiresteamwork and active involvement of key

Need for partnership in extensionservice

players and stakeholders includingprovision of other support services. Thisparticular strategy entails strongpartnership between and among the actors.In so doing, two intertwined andinteracting activities are done. These arelinkage establishment and maintenance ofnetworks that support the vision, goal, andprograms and activities in development.

Through these activities, actorscan now direct their programs, providesupport, and enhance the capability-building activities of individuals involvedin the process until such time that these areinstitutionalized. With the advent ofstrong partnership, collaboration andcomplementation of efforts, playersrespond to commitment, trust,accountability, and responsibility will beenhanced.

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DA-SUC Collaborative Extension Service Consultation

Dr. Emil Q. Javier presents the frameworkof the DA-SUC Collaborative Extension Program.

DA Usec. Jesus Emmanuel M. Paras at the VIP table with BAR Dir. Nicomedes P.Eleazar and Dr. Javier during the opening program.

DA Secretary Arthur C. Yap gives instructions to SUCs whileDr. Javier and Dir. Eleazar listen in.

Participantsduringthe DA-SUCconsultationmeeting.

Dir. Eleazarand PCARRDExecutiveDirectorPatricio S.Faylon.

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