BAR Digest January-June 2020 Issue

BARDIGEST
RESEARCH FOR DEVELOPMENT
The official magazine of the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research
Banana macro-propagation:
Crisis turned opportunity
ISSN 1655-3934
VOLUME 22 ISSUE NO. 1
JANUARY-JUNE 2020
ABOUT THE COVER
To improve the planting materials of banana specifically
Lakatan and Bungulan varieties, the Nueva Vizcaya State
University (NVSU) with funding support from DA-BAR, promotes
the nursery-level application of banana whole corm macro-
propagation through technology transfer from the university to
the Balangon Integrated Growers Association Sawmill.
Wilson B. Oligo, NVSU project staff, showcases the harvested

fruits and planting materials—project outputs. Behind him is one
of the project areas where they planted the planting materials
propagated through tissue culture and macro-propagation.
PHOTO: CMABAO
BAR R4D Digest is the biannual publication EDITORIAL BOARD

of the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of
Agricultural Research (DA-BAR). EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mara Shyn M. Valdeabella
WRITERS Clarisse Mae N. Abao
Previously published every quarter, this Ma. Eloisa H. Aquino
magazine contains feature stories on the latest Chantale T. Francisco
technologies and breakthroughs in agriculture Rena S. Hermoso
and fishery research for development (R4D) Jireh Alodia R. Laxamana
based on the studies and researches conducted Jhon Marvin R. Surio
by the member-institutions of the National DESIGN/LAYOUT Rena S. Hermoso
Research & Development System for Agriculture PRINT MANAGERS Ricardo G. Bernardo
and Fisheries (NaRDSAF). Lino Norman D. Reyes
CIRCULATION Lyn D. Pardilla
The bureau was established to lead and Lara Abegail S. Espiritu
coordinate the agriculture and fishery R4D in CONSULTING EDITOR Julia A. Lapitan
the country. ADVISERS Dr. Nicomedes P. Eleazar, CESO IV
Digna L. Sandoval
The editorial board welcomes comments and
suggestions from readers. Reach us via our
email [email protected] and our social media
accounts /DABAROfficial.
© Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research 2020

Agricultural Magazine of the Year
2007 Binhi Awards This magazine is copyrighted by the Department of Agriculture-Bureau
of Agricultural Research. No parts of this publication may be reproduced
Best News Magazine
and distributed without the permission from the management and proper
2003 Gawad Oscar Florendo
attributions from its original source.
IN THIS ISSUE Jan-Jun 2020
R4D NOTES
Helping the agri-fishery sector 4
amid health crisis thru R4D
Pinoy GOURmix: 6
Instant healthy hunger quick fix
Planting tinawon today 9
Native pork products 12

in the new normal
ON THE COVER
Banana macro-propagation: 15
Ubi mass propagation upped 19

through tissue culture
in Bohol as pandemic spreads
Mushroom for livelihood and health 22
Healthy chevon food amid the crisis 25
Kids born out of butchered goats 28
RiceBIS: A strategy to enhance 31

adoption of updated rice tech
VCO as catalyst for women 34

empowerment in Quezon province
Aid for Batanes garlic farmers 37

to come as DA rolls out support
to quality garlic planting materials
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic
Helping the agri- caused varied and complex negative impacts that
placed both lives and livelihoods at risk. In the country,
fishery sector measures taken to prevent the spread of the disease

greatly affected the food production system. Border
closures and lockdowns disrupted the supply chain,
amid health crisis thus, restricting people’s access to sufficient sources of
food and loss of income to producers.
thru R4D To ensure the continuous supply of essential food

commodities, the Department of Agriculture (DA)
Dr. Nicomedes P. Eleazar, CESO IV launched the Ahon Lahat Pagkaing Sapat (ALPAS)
Kontra COVID-19 Program. Popularly known as
Plant, Plant, Plant program, it is anchored on the
department’s New Thinking for Agriculture paradigm of
collectively empowering farmers, fishers, agripreneurs,
and the private sector to increase agricultural
productivity towards attaining a food-secure and
resilient Philippines with prosperous farmers and
fishers.
In line with this, DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research

refocused its research for development (R4D)
programs, activities, and projects to support resiliency
response toward transitioning to the New Normal and
recovery of the agriculture and fishery sector.
4 JANUARY-JUNE 2020 | BAR R4D DIGEST

R4D NOTES
PHOTO: RHERMOSO
Dubbed as the bureau’s Resiliency Response Research Three studies look into the utilization of R4D-generated
for Development (3R) Program for the New Normal, the technologies to boost production and ensure the
refocused DA-BAR program has six core subprograms quality of commodities specifically the use of
that highlight the urgent need to utilize, upscale, laboratory-generated mature technologies.
and outscale production and post-production R4D
technologies for optimal utility of the agri-fishery Banana macro-propagation project highlights how
sector. the said technology can produce more and improved
quality of banana seedlings in just a few months. With
Technologies featured in this issue highlight the the same goal is the study on the production and use of
significant role that research plays in the agri-fishery tissue-cultured ubi planting materials.
sector, especially in these trying times. These are
projects supported under the 3R program and While, another study delved into the use of
refocused ongoing projects. epididymal sperm of slaughtered livestock for assisted
reproductive techniques to produce more kids.
Nine of the eleven articles feature mature and adaptive
technologies that created impact on the agri-fishery Lastly, one article features the upscaling and
sector, especially to smallhold farmers and fishers. With commercialization of virgin coconut oil, a product that
the results of these past studies at the take-off point, is gaining much-deserved attention owing to its known
new R4D projects under the bureau’s 3R program are medicinal and health benefits.
introduced.
In this challenging time, the bureau recognizes the
These feature stories give emphasis to how the strategic position that it is in to elevate R4D toward
adoption and utilization of these R4D technologies making research more relevant and responsive to more
addressed the urgent need for healthier food options people.
and an additional income source — two of the biggest
concerns today.
JANUARY-JUNE 2020 | BAR R4D DIGEST 5

Pinoy GOURmix:
Instant healthy hunger quick fix
Clarisse Mae N. Abao
The ongoing pandemic, inarguably, However tasty and easy-to-grab mungbean, and ginger turmeric.
has immensely affected individuals as it may be, instant food does Most first impressions would say
from all walks of life, in all aspects. not always offer the best nutrition it would not be feasible to have
From fashion, public transport, humans should have. In facing all the said ingredients easily and
work mode, and virtual classrooms, a health issue, a strong immune deliciously prepared, but Pinoy
the pandemic took a heavy toll on system is a shield to combat the GOURmix made it possible.
the people’s social and economic virus. And one of the best ways to
situation, and behavior. keep our immune system intact From the word ‘gour’ derived from
is to maintain a healthy diet by gourmet that means high-quality
In a crisis where there is limited consuming nutritious food. food and ‘mix’ because it is a
movement due to quarantine mixture of locally produced cereals,
protocols, accessibility and The perfect healthy mix, instant grains, grits, and other healthy
availability of goods have been a noodles who? ingredients, Pinoy GOURmix is a
concern. Food, which is the basic A single serving of instant food, like cheaper and complete smart food,
necessity for all, is not an exception. instant noodles, basically contains high in protein and antioxidants,
carbohydrates, calories, saturated with 53 percent carbohydrates, 22.3
To minimize the risk of exposure fat, and an unhealthy amount of percent crude protein, 5.62 percent
to COVID-19, everyone was forced sodium. This has always been a total fat, and 120 calories.
to stay at home limiting people good enough reason why instant
with options on food deliveries food is recommended to be taken in Enriched food, empowered
and instant food, which has moderation. farmers across the value chain
further gained popularity with the Taking inspiration from the US
continuous demand for convenient Now, imagine a bowl made from Manna Rice Pack, a food and
goods and services, as per a study milled rice, white corn grits, adlay disaster relief to address hunger
conducted by Michigan University grits enriched with malunggay and malnutrition in developing
marketing researchers in March powder, soybean texturized countries, Rose Mary Aquino,
2020. vegetable protein, ground Department of Agriculture-Cagayan

Valley regional technical director As many ingredients are involved underwent training to improve their
for research and regulations and in the production, various farmers skills on proper product handling
the project’s proponent, led the and farming communities in the aligned to the standards set by DA-
research team behind the success of Cagayan Valley region were tapped CVRC.
the product. and capacitated to ensure the
continuous production of raw With a monthly estimated demand
Pinoy GOURmix bagged the materials and ingredients for Pinoy of 50,000 packs, Pinoy GOURmix
“Most Innovative Product” in GOURmix. provides a net income of PhP 4.25
the 10th Agriculture and Fisheries per 250-gram pack, giving around
Technology and Product Exhibition White corn producers from Isabala 20 percent return on investment
in 2014. The award came with a and Cagayan, adlay growers in for the partner farmers and other
research grant, giving the research Dupax, Nueva Vizcaya, mungbean stakeholders who engage in this
team of DA-Cagayan Valley Research and soybean products in Isabela, profitable agribusiness venture.
Center (CVRC) the opportunity and other local malunggay and
to boost Pinoy GOURmix’s yellow ginger farmers in the region Nation’s recognized local instant
market potential through were trained on organic farming lugaw
commercialization under the DA- and Good Agricultural Practices to Due to its nutritional value, Pinoy
Bureau of Agricultural Research ensure the supply of good quality GOURmix has been utilized on the
(BAR)-funded project titled, and safe raw materials for product feeding programs of both public
“Packaging/Labelling Improvement processing. and private institutions nationwide,
and IPR Registration in Support to earning a total of PhP 6.8 million net
Promotion and Commercialization Apart from strengthening the sales from 2014-2019.
of Vegetable and Protein-based farmers’ capacities, partner
GOURmix Product in Region 2.” manufacturers and distributors also
How to prepare the

Pinoy GOURmix?
1. Heat oil in a pot

over medium heat
and sauté garlic.
2. Add two liters of
water along with
the 250g pack of
Gourmix.
3. Bring to a boil then
stir and simmer for
15-20 minutes.
4. Season to taste.
Best served hot
PHOTO: DA-BAR ARCHIVE

PHOTO: ALKFI PROGRAMA GENIO
Children eating the Pinoy GOURmix during the ABS-CBN feeding program in 2015.
Some of the major partner Seeing the potential of further As the Filipinos gear towards New
distributors outside DA agencies are upscaling the product, DA-BAR, Normal and continuously adopt
ABS-CBN Programa GENIO, Jevita through its Resiliency Response new lifestyle and consumption
Sales and Marketing Corporation, Research for Development Program, behaviors, healthy food options
Missionaries of Mary Mother of the supported another phase of the such as Pinoy GOURmix can serve as
Poor, Project PEARLS, Isabela and project to be completed in 2022. one of the shields to enhance the
Quirino provincial local government Filipinos’ nutritional well-being as
units, and the Department of Titled “Upscaling and Sustaining the nation faces its battle against
Social Welfare and Development. Commercialization of Enhanced COVID-19.
The product was also exhibited in Pinoy GOURmix products,”
mainstream locations such as SMX the ongoing project being For more information:
Convention Center. implemented by DA-CVRC targets Rose Mary G. Aquino
beneficiaries from Providers Regional Technical Director for
On the onset of COVID-19, the Multi-Purpose Cooperative and Research and Regulations
local instant lugaw has also DA-SOCCSKSARGEN, expanding Department of Agriculture
been distributed to medical the product’s reach from the north -Cagayan Valley Research Center
health workers and frontliners down to the southern part of the Ilagan City, Isabela
in Tuguegarao City. It was also country. (078) 622 0961
displayed for sale in DA KADIWA ni [email protected]
Ani at Kita marketing terminals and DA-CVRC also plans to explore other
pasalubong centers established in variants of the product with saluyot
various provinces in the Cagayan and brown rice as ingredients.
Valley region.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CBUENAVENTURA/PAENRO IFUGAO
Planting tinawon today
Chantale T. Francisco
Built with bare hands around 2,000 But aside from the aesthetic it Heirloom rice is a special kind of
years ago by Ifugao ancestors, holds, what made the rice terraces indigenous rice that is only endemic
Banaue Rice Terraces is one of the valuable is it being the living proof in certain regions in the Philippines.
landscapes that the Philippines of the Ifugao’s profound indigenous Apart from its exceptional taste
takes pride in. With the steep knowledge and practices that and aroma, this kind of rice variety
contour of the four-tiered rice were passed on from generation to is highly resistant to pests, low
terraces, this structure projected a generation. It was able to withstand maintenance when it comes to
good strategy for rice irrigation up the test of time and the technology fertilizers, and adaptable to certain
to the present. It became renowned they endorsed is still as effective as climatic conditions in the area. In
and famous all over the world; ever in housing different heirloom Cordillera, over 300 heirloom rice
thus, earning a great cultural and rice varieties in the region. But varieties are present. But the most
ecological value to our country. first, what is heirloom rice in the adored and in-demand among
Philippine context? them is the Tinawon rice.

Also known as Imbuucan or Tinglu, greater mass production of the said

Tinawon is a slow cultivating rice rice variety and would help uplift
variety that grows once a year. the income of the farmers.
It is best planted in the terraces
because of its long-developed In connection to Ifugao’s rice
tolerance to cold and low fertilizer farmers, DA-BAR has long been in
requirements because of the aid of the community in forwarding
additional support provided intervention on Tinawon since
by the paddy’s water irrigation 2011. Under its Community-based
system. In essence, this kind of rice Participatory Action Research
variety is originally grown for the (CPAR), the project helped the
farmers’ consumption. But due production of Tinawon rice increase
to its growing popularity, it has its harvest to supplement the
established a niche in the local and demand of the export’s volume
global markets. and sustain the needs of our Ifugao
farmers.
For those who have experienced
Tinawon first hand, one can quite Dr. Catherine Buenaventura,
vouch for its taste and aromatic supervising agriculturist of Ifugao’s
appeal. Studies also suggest that it Provincial Agriculture Environment
has a high nutritional value which and Natural Resources Office,
overall, makes it expensive with a during the duration of the said CPAR
selling price of about PhP 120 a kilo project on Tinawon, said that the
– almost 10 times the price of any interventions introduced by the
regular milled rice. program endorsed a significant
increase in the harvest of the
Though the value of Tinawon is farmers.
quite high in the market, its yield
and productivity are low to sustain “These interventions led to a five
the farmers. It is also labor intensive percent increase in the production
and further requires regular of Tinawon rice during the first
irrigation maintenance. This greatly cycle,” she quoted.
affected the revenue of the farmers, the Ifugao Heirloom Rice Producers
especially in this pandemic. But even with this success on Cooperative (IHRPC). This move
Thus, considering the statistics, increasing Tinawon’s production is beneficial to the rice farmers of
a project from the Provincial volume, the recent project on Ifugao as well since the raw Tinawon
Local Government Unit of Ifugao, upscaling and commercializing to be used by the processors will be
which focuses on upscaling and Tinawon-based products was directly sourced from them.
commercializing Tinawon products, deemed as a necessary move
is conducted. by the project implementers. According to the project
This is because, aside from implementers, the production
Funded by the Department of rice exportation, value-adding of wine will make use of local
Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural technologies and products can ingredients in Ifugao. Binokbok, a
Research (DA-BAR), this study help increase the income of combination of glutinous rice and
titled, “Product Improvement and the farmers and provide more the weed, önwad, will serve as
Commercialization of Processed livelihood opportunities in the an organic yeast of the wine. Not
Tinawon Rice,” is an offshoot of the community. With that being said, all can make this organic yeast.
project “Product Improvement and the products to be commercialized As declared by the elders, only
Promotion of Coffee, Tinawon Rice, out of Tinawon will be cookies, selected individuals can craft the
and Taro Products.” Now focusing choco chips, crackers, and rice yeast with precision, otherwise, it
solely on Tinawon, this project wine. The processing of these will not be as good as the authentic
believed that this will encourage products is in collaboration with Binokbok of Ifugao.

Rice wine or baya is often used in thus, an enhancement training will of the project. In the making of
rituals and celebrations. It has been be conducted instead to further these products, the processors/
produced and passed on by their hone and improve the quality of beneficiaries will be involved
ancestors. It became part of the the product. Moreover, training from planning until the marketing
tradition of Ifugao that it became on Product Development, Good process. This approach ensures
a vital commodity that should be Manufacturing Practices, Food that all the steps are beneficial to
present in important events and Safety, and Financial Management both parties, thus, encouraging a
ceremonies. will also be conducted to ensure harmonious collaboration from its
and sustain good practices during inception until its completion.
Meanwhile, the cookies and other processing.
products will also use an organically For more information:
made Tinawon rice flour as its main With the increasing demand on Dr. Catherine V. Buenaventura
ingredient. Tinawon-based products, 4,500 Supervising Agriculturist
bottles of properly labeled rice Provincial Agriculture, Environment
The recent study seeks to wines; 3,000 boxes and 1,500 and Natural Resources Office
enhance and upgrade the skills pouches of cookies; 3,000 boxes and Lagawe, Ifugao
of its beneficiaries because of the 1,500 pouches of choco chips; and (074) 382 2063
increasing demand in Tinawon- 3,000 pouches of rice crackers are [email protected]
based products. IHRPC already the projected number of products
have experienced processors, to be sold for the whole duration

Native pork products
in the new normal
Ma. Eloisa H. Aquino
The magnitude of the pandemic’s R4D Initiatives on Native Pigs to develop technologies and
threats resulted in restrictions in A forefront livelihood in the rural commercialize native pig and its
movement which hampered the areas of the country, native animal meat products.
entire food supply chain. With production is not labor- and
the enormous impact on food resource-intensive. Native pigs, as Healthier and tastier native pork
production and the economy, well as native chicken, are mostly Commonly known in its roasted
Filipinos like everyone in the world, grown free-range and consume form which is traditionally known
try to adapt in order to survive and local feedstuff. Philippine native as lechon, one of the country’s
provide food for their families. pigs are known to be resistant popular dishes, the native pig has
to pests and diseases and highly gained popularity in recent years
During these trying times, food resilient to environmental stress. as numbers of Filipino consumers
availability and accessibility are have become health-conscious
among the country’s primary Recognizing the opportunities that individuals. Aside from having lower
concerns. But aside from these, come with developing the potential cholesterol content, native pigs are
Filipinos also look for nutritious of native pigs, the Department of said to be tastier and more flavorful
food to help boost their immune Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural compared to commercial pork.
systems. As there has been an Research (DA-BAR), since 2010, has
increase in the demand for healthier supported a number of research As preference for native pig
options, it is interesting to note for development (R4D) on native meat grew, R4D-implementing
that healthier options can also be pigs. From research initiatives institutions, such as the Organic
delicious options. on boosting the growth and Agriculture R&D Center of the
conservation of native pigs, several DA-Southern Tagalog Integrated
R4D projects were implemented Agricultural Research Center

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GBOCAYAN/DA-CALABARZON
(STIARC), embarked on the project the income of native animal raisers native pigs was more flavorful than
titled, “Technology Development through utilization and value- the meat from the younger ones,”
and Commercialization of adding of meat from organically Faylon shared.
Production System and Meat grown native pig, particularly the
Processing from Organically Grown culled and castrated pigs. The project provided support in
Native Pig and Native Chicken.” The product packaging and labelling,
project, led by Wilmer S. Faylon, Under the project, native pork which gives the physical and
was funded under the DA-National carcass cutting was established to sanitary protection and prevents
Organic Agriculture Program being suit the small size and anatomy of dehydration and oxidation of fats
coordinated by DA-BAR. the animal resulting in three primal and pigments, thus, extending the
cuts: ham, middle, and shoulder. shelf life of the products. From
As a result of various R4D studies Processed pork products developed manufacturing to distribution, the
conducted, native pig can now be incude native pork tapa, native project team ensures that the set of
consumed in a variety of products longganisa, native pork ham, and sanitary guidelines recommended
aside from the conventional lechon. native pork chicharon. for compliance with Good
Thus, offering meat-loving Filipinos Manufacturing Practices are met
with healthier options for processed “Most of the products utilized to ensure safe and food for human
meat. organically-grown ingredients such consumption.
as herbs and spices to maintain
Continued development the organic nature of the raw meat These activities are being
of native pork technology materials, which further enhanced conducted in the meat processing
In 2016, the said project supported the distinct and unique flavor of the laboratory established at STIARC
the activities that aimed to increase meat. Processed meat from culled of DA-CALABRZON in Lipa City,

Batangas that also served as a project. They are from Quezon, additional source of livelihood to
venue to showcase a start-up meat Batangas, Cavite, Rizal, and communities.
processing module. Sorsogon.
“The cooperators will adopt the
Medium term effects Ways forward product formulation developed
and longer impact With the success of the initially by DA-CALABARZON. With the
A part of the Filipino diet, the meat funded project, DA-BAR supported, upgrading of facilities, additional
processing industry has become under its Refocused Resiliency product lines such as bacon,
a very profitable retail enterprise. Research for Development Program ham, burger patties, sisig and
An average of 63 percent increase on Upscaling and Diversifying different sausages such as
in income was realized from the Food Products/Technologies, the hungarian sausage, cheesedog, and
processing of native pigs. DA-CALABRZON project titled, frankfurter will also be processed,”
“Commercialization of Developed Bocaya shared.
“Through the project, we concluded Meat Products from Organically-
that value adding can potentially Grown Native Pig in Batangas and Through the support of the Regional
increase the revenue of native Quezon Provinces.” Agribusiness and Marketing Division
animal farming communities. of DA-CALABARZON, products will
Native animal products can be “Upscaling of production and also be linked with the KADIWA
positioned to the increasing niche processing would not only market, LGUs and all potential
market and health-conscious contribute to increasing availability institutional markets, resorts
individual who are willing to pay of food supply but would also and restaurants, and cooperative
higher prices at premium products,” generate income of marginal outlets.
Faylon said. farming communities. The
production and processing would The presence of processing facilities
Information materials were also create new job opportunities established in Gumaca, Quezon,
produced including the book especially for women in each Nasugbu, and San Luis, Batangas
“Practical Guide in Raising and locality,” shared Ginalyn D. Bocaya, further encourages native pig
Value Adding of Meat From lead of the new project. growers of Munting Sambayanang
Organically-Grown Native Kristiyano-Magsasakang Sinusunod
Pig and Native Chicken” and Furthermore, this is in line with the ang Organikong Pagsasaka, San
booklets “Gabay sa Pag-aalaga efforts of DA to ensure availability Luis Farmers Association, and
ng Katutubong Baboy” and of supply and keep the farming First Nasugbu Natural Farmers
“Katutubong Hain: Mga Lutuin Mula community continuously running so Association and other native pig
sa Karne ng Katutubong Baboy at that every Filipino will have access growers in Batangas and Quezon to
Manok.” to affordable and nutritious food expand their livelihood for increase
despite the threat of COVID-19. Ani at Kita, and towards sustainable
The team conducted a series of development.
seminar-trainings and participated Boosting the production of
in trade fairs for information processed native pork provided For more information:
dissemination and technology people a healthier source of Ginalyn D. Bocaya
transfer. Furthermore, campaigns instant, accessible meat. To this Science Research Specialist II
from social media, television, and end, increasing the availability Research Division
radio programs made the project of these processed meat is seen Department of Agriculture-
widely-known and created linkages as an opportunity during the CALABARZON
to complement livestock and pandemic situation. Furthermore, Marawoy, Lipa City, Batangas
organic banner programs of the given the success of completed (043) 756 4962 | 981 2673
region. and ongoing initiatives, the new (0961) 270 3859 | (0975) 331 6447
project is expected to strengthen [email protected]
To date, seven adoptors are using the production of food within
the technology and output of the the localities and provide

ON THE COVER
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ESANA/NVSU
Banana macro-propagation:
Clarisse Mae N. Abao
As the country’s leading export fruit crop with four like Bungulan, Grand Naine, and Tumok are for exports
million metric tons of produce amounting to 1.9-billion- reaching Japan, Korea, and the Middle East.
dollar revenue in 2019, bananas have made the
Philippines the second largest banana exporter in the Majority of the crop is grown in Davao region, Northern
world. This export accounts for more than 20 percent of Mindanao, and SOCCSKSARGEN with a share of the
global banana shipments and is projected to continue total production at 36.7 percent, 25.4 percent, and 12.4
for the next nine years due to high demand in Asian percent, respectively; making Mindanao as the main
markets, the United Nations Food and Agriculture island banana exporter nationwide.
Organization claimed.
With the banana’s promising potential for income for
The Philippines’ tropical climate is one of the major its growers, specifically for smallhold banana farms,
factors that nurture the growth of quality bananas widescale production and improvement on the overall
in the country. Some of the varieties for domestic value chain on the other areas in the country should
consumption and local market include Lakatan, be explored through research for development (R4D),
Latundan, Saba, and Señorita. Cavendish type bananas especially in improving the quality and quantity of its
production.

PH banana industry in the pandemic undesirable effects in the banana industry, especially to
Engaging in banana production is not smooth-sailing smallhold banana growers.
venture as perceived. Apart from the diseases such as
banana bunchy top virus (BBTV), banana mosaic virus Farmers to thrive through macro-propagation
(BMV), banana bract mosaic virus, and fusarium wilt To enhance the productivity of smallhold banana
as well as susceptibility to pests, the banana industry growers, ongoing research on technology application
continuously faces tougher challenges as COVID-19 sets initiated by the Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU)
in the first quarter of 2020. furthers the potential of producing quality planting
materials through the whole corm macro-propagation
With the effects brought by the pandemic due to of Lakatan and Bungulan varieties.
lockdown measures imposed causing limited workforce
and impeded trade movement, the Philippines’ banana Banana whole corm macro-propagation is a technique
export could drop by nearly 40 percent, almost half for multiplying from a whole sucker pared, peeled, and
to around 2.5 metric tons this year, as claimed by the scarified to induce lateral bud growth. Compared to
major producers of banana in the country. tissue culture, macro-propagation is a more affordable
technology that smallhold farms and farming
Halted operations by major banana producers have communities can adopt as it employs locally available
immensely affected the industry. Despite Luzon as the materials.
initial center of the lockdown, a number of plantations
in Mindanao also closed and implemented quarantine Under the Department of Agriculture-Bureau
measures leading to slower production of bananas in of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) High Value
the country’s center island for production and export. Crops Development Program, the project titled,
“Commercializing Whole Corm Macro-propagation
These problems, as may be alarming, are a challenge Technology for Lakatan and Bungulan: A Viable
to agriculture R4D to innovate and prevent further Livelihood Option for Banana Farmers in Nueva
PHOTO: CMABAO

Vizcaya,” supported in 2019 aimed to promote nursery Among the commendable project accomplishments
level application of whole corm macro-propagation is the partnership of NVSU with BIGAS for the capacity
technique through technology transfer from NVSU to building of the BIGAS members in macro-propagation
Balangon Integrated Growers Association of Sawmill and proper nursery level management of cultivars
(BIGAS). to prevent low yield and high incidence of pests and
diseases.
According to Dr. Elbert Sana, project leader, the
technique helps the smallhold banana growers in Moreover, the DA-BAR-funded project also assisted
Nueva Vizcaya in generating income and livelihood BIGAS in nursery enhancement by providing a
from banana plantlet production which farmers can screenhouse facility completed this year. The facility
accomplish by themselves at the nursery level. houses seven units of macrobed structures for plantlet
production.
To support the project, NVSU complements the
technology with disease indexing service for BBTV and Rowell Dacanay, a 38-year-old member of the BIGAS
BMV to induce the growth of seedlings from healthy Board of Directors, along with four other farmers,
mother plants. continuously benefit from the trainings of the project
since 2019. Farmer beneficiaries like Dacanay replicate
“One sucker [of Lakatan and Bungulan] can yield the protocol from NVSU on the project upgraded BIGAS
as much as 20-25 seedlings that can be ready Nursery from which other members of the association
for field planting in three to four months. With apply in their respective farms.
complementation of disease indexing for source
mother plants, the whole corm macro-propagation Taking steps towards macro-goals
technology can serve as a viable livelihood option for To expand the institutionalization of the R4D
smallhold banana farms, specifically in Luzon, where initiative, the project team coordinated with the Local
only a number of banana tissue culture laboratories Government Unit (LGU) of Villaverde, Nueva Vizcaya
produce planting materials,” Dr. Sana reported.

and its Municipal Agriculturist Office from which
they have gathered commitment to support the
project implementation.
With the continued success of the macro-

propagation technology on Lakatan and
Bungulan, DA-BAR has recently supported a
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ESANA/NVSU

related NVSU project titled, “Enhancing Tissue
Culture and Macro-propagation of Saba: Cagayan
Valley’s Planting Material Support System for
Banana” under the Resiliency Response R4D (3R)
Program this 2020.
On a similar goal, the second project will focus

on upscaling the production of quality planting
materials for Saba through both tissue culture
and macro-propagation technologies. The
new project is currently being implemented in
partnership with Quirino State University and
DA-Cagayan Valley Research Center.
From the initial one farmer association on the

first project, the second phase now reaches out
to the Bayombong LGU banana nursery, Quirino
Banana Growers Association, Sustainable Crop
Production Sloping Area farmer members, and
nine selected smallhold banana farmers in
Nueva Vizcaya as partners.
Aligned with the DA’s Plant, Plant, Plant

Program or Ahon Lahat Pagkaing Sapat (ALPAS)
Kontra COVID-19 Program and the National
Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization and
Industrialization Program 2020-2025, the DA-
BAR 3R Program through its the Support to
Mass Production of Quality Planting Materials
subprogram aims to increase the production of
quality planting materials through the utilization
of mass propagation techniques and protocols
that help sustain food production, availability,
and accessibility in the country.
For more information:

Dr. Elbert A. Sana
Director
Citrus Resource Research Development Center
Nueva Vizcaya State University
Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
[email protected]

Ubi mass propagation upped
through tissue culture in Bohol
as pandemic spreads
Jhon Marvin R. Surio
Ubi (Dioscorea alata L.) or purple that is recently gaining popularity Aside from the crop’s economic
yam is commonly known in the in terms of crop production. It benefits and market potentials, its
country as the main ingredient is a slender creeping vine, with known health benefits also remain
in the all-time favorite dessert, a peculiar four-winged stem. unmatched with it being a great
halayang ubi, during fiestas and Currently, it is already commercially source of carbohydrates, potassium,
holidays. It is also considered a grown in the country. Vitamin C, and antioxidants that is
must-have to complete a traditional said to help regulate blood sugar,
ginataan recipe. Over the years, According to researches, demand lower blood pressure, and improve
ubi gained more popularity as a for ubi in the country reaches symptoms of respiratory conditions.
local favorite with its versatility as as high as 49,000 tons a year for As a result, demand for ubi
flavoring to various food products processors and 13,000 tons for increased for about 10-20 percent
like sweets, drinks, and pastries. export abroad. Exported purple yam annually in recent years, especially
products include those in powder in countries like Australia, Canada,
Along with other crops, ubi is one of form, ice cream, dried chips, and Taiwan, Japan, and even in the US.
the country’s banner export crops many other industrial products.

In the Philippines, Bohol was occurrence of long dry spells DA-BAR, a ceremonial planting and
identified to be the largest ubi- and disease infections ultimately turnover ceremony was conducted
producing province, contributing leading to the scarcity of quality in the municipality of Jagna, Bohol,
more than half of the 66 percent planting materials in the said spearheaded by Atty. Salvador
in the country’s total production region. Diputado, regional technical
volume that comes from Central director.
Visayas. Atop the boasted functions of the
regional agriculture office is its A total of 250 tissue-cultured Ubi
As such, several initiatives on ubi prioritization of the production of Kinampay plantlets were given to
research and development had quality planting materials. Annual the local government unit (LGU)
been undertaken and funded by production of yam seed pieces of Jagna, making it the first LGU-
the Department of Agriculture- is tagged under the High Value recipient of the support grant
Bureau of Agricultural Research Crops Development Program for provided by DA-BAR to finance the
(DA-BAR) in the past. In 2003, an distribution to farmer growers accelerated production of good and
ubi agribusiness development residing in Bohol. Despite efforts, quality planting materials in the
project was launched to strengthen the problem in the lack of quality region.
the industry in the province. planting materials still stands,
Through the project, many farmer- resulting to low yield as affected by According to Diputado, the project
cooperators profited from ubi pests and diseases. aims to produce at least 20,000
farming as an alternate crop to corn
and legumes. With the pioneering of the project,
the production and use of tissue-
Another project looked at cultured planting materials is given
technology promotion, utilization, further support to address the gaps
and commercialization of ubi identified, and hopefully boost the
which led to the identification of production of ubi and increase the
technology for commercialization income of farmer growers in the
of ubi-based products. Through this region.
project, ubi products were made
available in Bohol markets. Researchers in the region have
recently perfected the use of tissue-
However, agricultural researchers cultured planting materials by
from the region noted that the using nodal segments of stems of
potential of this commodity is still the plant multiplied in vitro. Results
not being fully tapped in terms of were utilized in the production of
local production, utilization, and first stage tubers for distribution
marketability because of the lack as planting materials, taking into
of quality planting materials in the consideration that smaller tubers
region. are yet produced from the plantlets
grown in the laboratory.
Hence, the project titled, “Support
to Mass Production of Ubi Quality In vitro preservation and
Planting Materials through Mass conservation of different accessions
Propagation Technique in Bohol collected from the province and
Province,” funded under DA-BAR’s within the region is continuously
refocused program in response to done in the Plant Tissue Culture
the urgent threats to the country’s Laboratory of the station, bringing
food security posed by the ongoing light to the aspirations of the
health crisis. project.
The project aims to address To kick off the collaboration

challenges observed due to the between DA-Central Visayas and

quality planting materials to be from ubi such as ubi powder, yam DA-BAR has been actively
distributed among farmers from 10 flour, yam chips, ubi wine, spread, supporting various initiatives
different municipalities in Bohol. and chips. on mass production of ubi
quality planting materials
The Ubi Kinampay variety was As of June this year, the project through its National Technology
specifically selected because it is already set out initial planned Commercialization Program and
the most preferred purple yam and activities. Approximately 50 pots High Value Crops Development
widely grown in the province of were already planted with Ubi Program.
Bohol. Furthermore, the Kinampay Kinampay variety (for source of
variety commands the highest explants in the micro-propagation For more information:
price among others at PhP 90 per activities) and some representatives Dr. Fabio G. Enriquez
kilogram, compared to the white from ubi farmers association Chief
variety which can be sold at PhP signified interest in taking part in Research Division
35 per kilogram, and lesser purple the said project. Moreover, about Department of Agriculture
variety at PhP 45 to 65 per kilogram. 400 pieces of nodal segments were -Central Visayas
already collected, sterilized, and Maguikay, Mandaue City
Previous research projects inoculated from which planting (032) 268 9805
conducted by the regional office materials will be developed. [email protected]
have developed various products
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FENRIQUEZ/DA-CENTRAL VISYAS

Mushroom for livelihood and health
Chantale T. Francisco
Mushroom growing and One partner agency is the The beginning of it all
propagation is an overlooked DA-Central Luzon Integrated With the main goal of generating
industry in business and commerce. Agricultural Research Center and introducing low-cost
Though it has sprung as a feasible (CLIARC) that focuses on boosting mushroom production and
livelihood due to its low-cost mushroom propagation technology. technologies to rice farmers, the
start-up and efficiency, it was still With their current project titled, main study’s results have indeed
not cultivated enough because “Upscaling of Mushroom Crackers come a long way since then.
of the lack of resources, training, as Additional Income Source of Through DA-BAR’s support, a
and guidance of experts. But in Indigenous People in Caranglan, successful food product line on
these trying times, mushroom Nueva Ecija in Support to ALPAS- mushrooms was created through
propagation became a popular COVID 19,” CLIARC believed that the said study.
venture for urban agriculture. this would help the Binbin Igorot’s
Association, mushroom growers, Marketed as snacks that do not
With the shock and heightened and processors increase their only give consumers fulfillment
distress that the pandemic brought income by 50 percent through the in taste but also in nutritional
us, considering mushroom growing mushroom processing technologies content, this project has 10 frozen
and production as a business developed by their agency. Funded product varieties that include ice
pursuit can be a good income- by DA-BAR, this project can help cream, ice drop, kikiam, bola-bola,
generating activity for those who enhance the skills and productivity nuggets, veggie-balls, longganisa,
wanted to invest in something of the beneficiaries and can also tapa, dumpling, and lumpiang
sustainable without breaking the pave the way to the adoption of a shanghai. Moreover, another 10
bank. healthier snack alternative. mushroom-based products are
dedicated to sweets and pastries.
With the aid of the Department of This project is one of the These are waffle, cupcake, espasol,
Agriculture (DA), the DA-Bureau of installments of DA-Central macaroons, pie tart, pandesal,
Agricultural Research (BAR), in line Luzon’s main study on mushroom brownie, sugar-coated mushroom,
with its commitment to support production titled, “Product glazed mushroom, and maja.
and uplift the lives of farmers and Development and Shelf-Life
fishers, created a program that Extension of Pleurotus Mushroom And of course, to complete the
highlights the right measures and Processed Product Categorized into product line, mushroom-based
urgency of ensuring food security Frozen Foods, Condiments, Sauces, condiments were also developed
amid the pandemic. With that, Sweets, and Pastries.” From its by the project implementers.
research for development (R4D) inception in 2015, 30 mushroom- Under the substudy, “Incorporation
agencies have been refocusing and based products were produced of Pleurotus Mushroom on the
reinforcing their projects to support which greatly helped uplift a lot of Processing and Development of
DA-BAR’s current initiative. lives until now. Condiments, Mixes, and Sauces for

Community-Based Enterprises,”
mushroom ketchup, pickle relish,
gravy, chili paste, fish ball sauce,
mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot
sauce, and barbecue sauce were
developed.
In these products, fresh oyster

mushroom fruits were harvested
and processed to be incorporated
in these goods. And to ensure
its marketability, the project
implementers conducted a sensory
evaluation survey to gauge the
people’s interest in the product
taste-wise. Fortunately, the product
line garnered positive feedback
from the respondents and has
also been commended for the
presentation, texture, and varieties
of flavor available.
The said project has successfully

provided additional income to rice
farmers, particularly those who
are already engaged in mushroom
propagation. During this pandemic
where additional income is much
needed, this accomplishment
sparked the interest of the project
implementers to venture on
another merchandise that will add
flavor and crunch to the product
line. Hence, the emergence of
mushroom crackers.

Forwarding a healthier the income of the beneficiaries. propagation, the Mushroom
cracker alternative The production, of course, will Technology Development Center
Deemed as a healthier be accompanied by hands-on under CLIARC in Paraiso, Tarlac City
complimentary cracker, mushroom training on the mushroom crackers has also launched a webinar on
crackers are “deep-fried puffed processing technology and also mushroom production through the
crackers made from fresh oyster training and assistance on Good center’s official Facebook page.
mushroom and vegetable flour,” Manufacturing Practices to ensure
as defined by the proponents. food quality. Being resilient keeps us afloat
With its crunchiness and taste that during this pandemic, but what
resembles existing commercial Together with the mushroom can sustain our buoy is every
crackers in the market, this product cracker project, DA-Central Luzon agency’s concerted initiatives
is a promising cracker alternative has also been active recently in and contributions especially for
because of its added vitamins and forwarding other initiatives for our farmers and fishers. That is
minerals especially for those who the department’s program. One of why mushroom growing is ideal
are monitoring their health. them is the project titled, “Support for those who want to invest in
to Mass Production of Mushroom a business that needs low-cost
The project implementers have Quality Planting Through Mass materials and a small space to start
this vision to upscale and stretch Propagation Protocol in Central on. Aside from being an additional
its commercialization initiatives in Luzon.” This aims to increase the source of income, growing
DA’s Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita markets production of quality mushroom mushrooms can also serve as an
and other cooperatives. To boost its pure culture, grain spawn, and efficient food source because of its
presence and linkages, the project fruiting bags by incorporating nutritional value and properties.
implementers would also like to mass propagation techniques and This can, indeed, help alleviate the
take advantage of social media for protocols. threat to food security.
marketing and promotions.
Early on, DA-Central Luzon was also For more information:
A total of 48,000 packs are projected known to be distributing spawn Dr. Emily A. Soriano
to be produced in this installment. and fruiting bags to community Agricultural Center Chief III
Four thousand eight hundred members and associations through Department of Agriculture
will be distributed to the less its research outreach stations -Central Luzon Integrated
privileged, 4,800 for the frontliners, located in Pampanga, Tarlac, and Agricultural Research Center
and another 4,800 to the funding Zambales. Furthermore, with San Fernando, Pampanga
agency. The rest of the mushroom the public’s growing interest (0906) 245 0622
crackers are meant to be sold for in mushroom production and [email protected]
PHOTO COURTESY OF ESORIANO/DA-CLIARC

Healthy chevon food amid the crisis

Ma. Eloisa H. Aquino
“In any scenario, the most affected aquaculture,” said Dr. Jonathan income-earning opportunities
are the poorest segment of society. Nayga, director of Isabela State strike, consumption will suffer.
Developing countries like the University-Cagayan Valley Small Hence, if this will continue, it
Philippines are particularly at risk Ruminants Research Center (ISU- will lead to poverty, hunger, and
as this pandemic can lead to the CVSRRC). malnutrition,” he added.
reduction of the labor force and
affect income and livelihood as “Furthermore, food demand in With this in mind, the university
well as labor-intensive forms of poorer communities is linked has pulled efforts to bring together
production such as agriculture and to income; and when the loss of the food manufacturing industry,

PHOTO: RHERMOSO
retailers, raw material producers Among pork, beef, chicken, and either consumed fresh, chilled,
(goat raisers), cooperatives, local lamb, chevon is considered to be or frozen, ISU has developed
government units as partners the healthiest source of dietary ready-to-eat products as a result
in commercialization, product protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. of post-production innovation
distribution, source of raw Chevon has lower fat, saturated fat, through the developed canned
materials, and farm monitoring and cholesterol content and higher chevon processing technology. Duly
to ensure animal fitness for in polysaturated fatty acid. Fat level registered and approved by the
human consumption. To them, content analysis revealed a lower Intellectual Property Office of the
commitment and collective efforts than recommended fat intake for Philippines, the developed package
from government agencies must adults (44 to 77 grams daily). of technology includes standard
be rolled into one, amid the crisis product formulation and thermal
being faced, to help goat raisers in “As consumers became aware of processing schedule.
rural communities sustain not only the health risk of consuming too
livestock-based enterprise, but also much red meat, the demand for This was made possible through
adequate, accessible, available, and chevon increased both in the local the support given by Department
affordable healthy food to every and global markets. Furthermore, of Agriculture-Bureau of
Filipino. developing processed meat Agricultural Research (DA-BAR),
products with high nutritional value through its National Technology
Aside from the COVID-19 pandemic is feasible,” Dr. Nayga said. Commercialization Program, on the
situation, the processing of project titled, “Commercialization
chevon meat products can offer an Post-production innovation of chevon value-adding
alternative source of meat during In the Philippines, the Northern technologies in the Province of
emergency situations, like the Luzon has traditionally consumed Isabela,” on top of the different
occurrence of African swine fever goat meat as part of their local research for development (R4D)
and avian influenza, that have tradition. Specialty goat cooked projects supported by the bureau
affected the swine and poultry dishes such as kaldereta, kilawin, from goat production to processing.
industry, respectively. pinapaitan, and sinampalokan have
been part of special occasions or “The project has developed post-
Chevon as the healthiest nutrient regular family meals. production product from goat and
source for red meat improvement of marketing system
Filipinos are meat-loving individuals In 2015, the global per capita for chevon,” Dr. Nayga shared.
but considering the increasing consumption of meat increased
number of health-conscious from 23.1 to 42.2 kilograms as Through the center’s chevon value-
consumers, healthier sources of presented in the project document. adding/processing technology,
meat have been introduced and are From the conventional per head nine more products were produced.
slowly gaining popularity. basis/live animal disposal and These include the canned products,

which were inspired by Filipino Upscaling and sustainability “With product commercialization,
native dishes, sinampalokan (goat’s DA-BAR, under its refocused the goat industry will also be
happy feet), chevon curry with Resiliency Response Research developed as the number of
peanut, chevon mechado, chevon for Development (3R) Program commercial-level farms increases.
asado, chili-garlic chevon, and on Upscaling and Diversifying The transformation from backyard
pounded chevon with sauce. On Food Products/Technologies, has to commercial-level of production
the other hand, microwaveable supported the new project titled, is needed to sustain the growth
packaging products include “Commercialization of Chevon of the market being established.
chevon meat balls, chevon with Canned Products: A Support to DA- As the market of animal is
white sauce, and chevon ribs with ALPAS Kontra COVID-19 Program,” established, profits from raising
chestnut sauce. and also in line with DA’s twin goals: goats become stable. Livelihood
Ani at Kita. in rural communities will be
“The demand for such products created, thereby creating a stronger
resulted in the introduction of The project is geared towards domestic economy.” Dr. Nayga
product retailing. Through value- upscaling the canned products, shared.
adding, more products can be chevon curry, pounded chevon, and
offered to the consumers, thus, chevon mechado. Furthermore, On sustainability, the team aims
retailing scheme can be more the project shall contribute to to establish a private partner/
attractive. As retailing of product is the establishment of a market for company that will commercialize
established, raisers are encouraged locally produced chevon meat the technology through license
to rear more as the market becomes products from the developed post- agreement. The technology
stable,” Dr. Nayga explained. production technology for goat, generator shall ensure the provision
hence, ensuring standardization of of training and other technical
On average, ISU’s current volume of products for commercialization. assistance until operation becomes
production can produce 10,000 cans stable under private management.
annually. Marked at 200g net weight The products will be distributed
per can, canned products are sold through technology/product For more information:
at PhP 190. With an investment commercialization partners of ISU- Dr. Jonathan N. Nayga
cost of PhP 2,086,250, the chevon CVSRRC in local and inter-region Director
processing can result to 31 percent coverage; and in Central Luzon, Cagayan Valley Small
ROI from an average annual net Metro Manila and CALABARZON Ruminants Research Center
income of PhP 938,750. This is through the ISU-Multi-purpose Isabela State University
based on an annual sales volume Cooperative and the DA-Cagayan Echague, Isabela
of 11,750 cans and 1,400 vacuum- Valley’s KADIWA Market. (0921) 318 1621
packed cuts (at 1 kilogram per pack) [email protected]
produced.

Kids born out
of butchered goats
Rena S. Hermoso
Epid bucks, 1916

fixed time artifici
Did you know that sperm from Testing the hypothesis With its inherent resiliency in
butchered goat when harvested and Dr. Lerma Cajuigan-Ocampo, harsh environment, native goats
stored properly could still fertilize a senior science research specialist reproduce with ease albeit smaller
mature oocyte? at the Department of Agriculture- than foreign breeds, thus, providing
Philippine Carabao Center (DA- instant cash for farmers in need.
I bet you wondered if a dead goat PCC), eagerly tested her hypothesis With this, goats usually end up at
could still father a live kid. The that sperm from a butchered goat slaughterhouses before reaching
answer is yes. In Nueva Ecija, goats could fertilize a mature oocyte sexual maturity.
born from the epididymal sperm are through a project funded by DA-
fondly called epid by the research Bureau of Agricultural Research. Dr. Ocampo wondered if she could
team that brought them to life. She was driven by the desire collect live sperm from a butchered
These epid bucks are now entrusted to include frozen germplasm goat. Her background in veterinary
to farmers to breed their backyard from native farm animals and medicine pushed her to think that
does, and produce goats that are endangered and endemic in theory, it is possible. Using goat
better version of their parents. With ruminants in PCC’s cryobank core as animal research model, she
this, farmers could augment their collection. and her research team explored
income faster. possible procedures to extract a
Nondescript goats are usually viable epididymal sperm from post
found tethered in lush vegetation. mortem goat testicles.

6 and 1902, are two of the goats born thru
ial insemination using epididymal sperm.
Epid buck (1902) kids
They found that indeed live sperm to determine the fertility in vivo In the first trial, two out of the
could still be collected from of frozen goat epididymal sperm nine hormone-responsive does
butchered goat within 30 minutes through artificial insemination in got pregnant using a simple
to two hours upon death. Through two distinct seasons — wet and dry. estrus synchronization procedure.
in vitro fertilization technique, the Unfortunately, both does aborted
post mortem epididymal sperm For the experiment, does were after 45 and 55 days respectively.
was able to fertilize in vitro cultured injected with hormones to Research team attributed this to the
eggs demonstrating that the sperm synchronize the estrus or ‘in heat’ extreme humid condition.
remains physiologically fertile. phenomenon. Those who were
Shortly after, freeze preservation responsive to the hormone were The following three trials utilized
trials for epididymal sperm were inseminated with the processed a better hormone priming method
optimized at -196 degrees Celsius. frozen epididymal sperm. called ovulation synchronization
Thirty days after the artificial protocol for fixed-time artificial
Moving a step forward insemination, does underwent insemination. Thirteen out of the
Surprised by the result of their ultrasonography to determine if it 25 does that were inseminated got
study, Dr. Ocampo and her team were pregnant. pregnant. Twenty-one epid kids
implemented another BAR-funded were born.
project as a follow-up. This time

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOLOFRANCO/DA-PCC
“To the best of our knowledge, this Through the project, PCC will be naturally bred by the buck,”
is the first-ever reported case in the in partnership with the city said Dr. Ocampo.
Philippines demonstrating that post government of San Jose launched
mortem testicles can be a valuable the Buck to Bucks (B2B) Paiwi After 30 days, the research team
source of germplasm (sperm) System in Nueva Ecija to help will determine if does got pregnant
for freeze preservation and its farmers augment their income. through another ultrasonographic
eventual use to produce offspring Under this system, an epid buck examination. Once they are
in the Philippines using fixed-time with 50 percent Boer bloodline was declared pregnant, the epid buck
artificial technology (FTAI),” shared entrusted to a partner-farmer to will be entrusted to the next farmer
Dr. Ocampo. breed their does. in the community.
Out of curiosity, the research team Lolito Deloberjes, Jr. was chosen To aid more farmers during this
continued to monitor whether the to initially model the B2B Paiwi health crisis, dikong epid was
epid kids could also reproduce once System. Similar to the project’s entrusted to another goat farmer
they reach sexual maturity. These experiment, does also underwent in Science City of Muñoz. Farmer-
epid bucks were crossbreds from ultrasonography to identify which members of the Tayabo Agro-
Boer and native goats. Through were eligible for breeding and were Entrepreneur Natures Innovators
natural mating, the epid bucks were injected with hormones to induce Movement and the Pantawid
able to produce their kids. estrous. Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)
beneficiaries will be the recipients
Taking a detour “Estrus synchronization technology of the B2B Paiwi System.
In mid-2020, the research team using either a single dose of
had to refocus their project to cloprosenol or lutalyze hormone For more information:
aid livestock farmers amid the will be rolled over as a mature Dr. Lerma Cajuigan-Ocampo
economic repercussion of the technology optimized at the PCC- Senior Science Research Specialist
extended community quarantine Reproduction and Physiology Department of Agriculture
implemented across the country to Section in order for the female -Philippine Carabao Center
curb the spread of COVID-19. goats in the barangay to come in Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija
heat in a predetermined period and (0923) 274 7527
[email protected]

RiceBIS: A strategy to enhance
adoption of updated rice tech
Jireh Alodia R. Laxamana
Still reeling from typhoons and Anchored on the clustering enterprises improvement through
drought that hit the country, approach, the RiceBIS Community the distribution of matured
smallhold rice farmers face a new Program aimed to address low technologies, RiceBIS project
hurdle. The nationwide preventive productivity and income among merges production and marketing
lockdown to curb the spread of local farmers through a modern strategies to transform farming
COVID-19 restricted the movement approach in line with DA’s twin communities to become market-
of food and goods. Thus, bringing goals. driven and participatory through
food from the farm to tables have the promotion of livelihood
become more challenging. Rice To promote rice farming programs and climate-smart farm
farmers’ lives and means of living modernization and rice-based technologies.
are at risk thereby threatening food
security and sustainability.
This major problem requires

an innovative solution through
relevant research for development
(R4D) interventions. As the lead rice
R4D institution, the Department
of Agriculture-Philippine Rice
Research Institute (DA-PhilRice)
initiated the RiceBIS project to
improve the competitiveness
of rice and rice-based farming
communities in select provinces in
the country.
About the project

Funded by DA-Bureau of
Agricultural Research, the RiceBIS
Phase II involves 15 RiceBIS
communities with ten clusters of
farmer organizations each to cover
400 farmer-beneficiaries per site.
This includes twelve major rice-
producing provinces: Ifugao, Ilocos
Norte, Pangasinan, Quirino, Tarlac,
Zambales, Quezon, Masbate, Aklan,
Negros Oriental, Cotabato, and
Agusan del Norte.
Aerial mapping and geotagging in Mangatarem, Pangasinan

The technologies under the the RiceBIS program conducted platform. Cropping patterns,
RiceBIS project include yield- clustering activities this year across ecosystems, and resources play a
enhancing and cost-reducing all selected project sites in the big role in the implementation of
technologies anchored on the country. this technology. It solved concerns
PalayCheck system, Palayamanan, on monocropping by having other
and clustering approach. Through PalayCheck for production sources of livelihood such as
which series of training, promotion, technologies contributed planting vegetables and fruits while
and demonstration are conducted significantly in the increase of raising livestock and fishpond for
through Farmers’ Field School production and profitability of continuous food supply, increased
(FFS) including organizational rice farming in the country. It farm productivity, and improved
development and agripreneurship. has been proven to help farmers ecological balance or diversity.
achieve high yield through Hence, achieving food security and
RiceBIS technologies proper rice crop and technology economic stability.
The clustering approach primarily management as long as key check
aims to facilitate community recommendations (e.g. high-quality As of writing, the PalayCheck for
collective action such as seeds, proper water, nutrient, and production technologies is further
synchronous crop establishment pest management practices, land being disseminated to RiceBIS
and harvesting using farm preparation, among others) are farmers through various FFS and
machines, mobilization of farmer ensured. Such developed practices establishment of technology-
leaders, and group marketing. This opened opportunities, improved demonstration sites. These rice
approach will serve as a strategy the livelihood, and increased the technologies, which the farmers can
to enhance the adoption of yield- income of smallholder rice farmers. adopt in their community, will be
enhancing and cost-reducing showcased in learning fields.
technologies. Meanwhile, farm diversification
and integration are being promoted RiceBIS and other initiatives
To improve resiliency and achieve especially in rainfed areas through Different project implementers
sustainable agro-enterprise, the Palayamanan technology conducted various initiatives in

selected RiceBIS sites in the country. Further, DA-PhilRice added References
Other activities held through that its plans for the second Philippine Rice Research Institute. (2014).
PalayCheck System for the Philippine
the said project included project semester include the conduct of Irrigated Lowland Rice. Retrieved from
briefing, focus group discussion, site postharvest losses data gathering, https://www.pinoyrice.com/palaycheck/
validation through aerial mapping establishment of technology
and geotagging, cooperative demonstration sites and RiceBIS Philippine Rice Research Institute. (2014).
Palayamanan System. Retrieved
inspection, and establishment of communities, and partnership-
from https://www.pinoyrice.com/
more techno-demo sites. Further, building with rice stakeholders. palayamanan/#squelch-taas-accordion-
a ceremonial seed distribution of shortcode-content-1
bags of certified seeds from the For more information:
Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Dr. Aurora M. Corales Philippine Rice Research Institute. (2020).
Rice Business Innovations System
Program for the farmer- Chief Science Research Specialist (RiceBIS) Community Program Progress
beneficiaries was also launched. Department of Agriculture Report (January–August 2020) and
-Philippine Rice Research Institute Briefer.
Turning the pandemic into an Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija
Philippine Rice Research Institute. (2020).
opportunity to identify and address (044) 456 0277 local 511
Rice Business Innovations System
vulnerabilities in the country’s [email protected] (RiceBIS) – Phase II and Expansion
food systems while improving Site. Jan-June 2020 Summary Report
the competitiveness of farming Jayca Y. Siddayao and RiceBIS Expansion Sites Progress
communities to a sustainable agro- Senior Science Research Specialist Report.
enterprise, DA-PhilRice through Department of Agriculture Sinon, B.J. (2019). Palayamanan Plus, a Way
the technologies under the RiceBIS -Philippine Rice Research Institute to Sustainability. ATI in Eastern Visayas.
Community Program aims to make Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija Retrieved from https://ati.da.gov.ph/ati-
rice farmers resilient and bring (044) 456 0277 8/news/04102019-1005/palayamanan-
plus-way-sustainability
transformation to society in line [email protected]
with the New Normal for a much
better post-pandemic scenario.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF JSIDDAYAO/DA-PHILRICE

VCO as catalyst for women
empowerment in Quezon province
Jireh Alodia R. Laxamana
As one of the leading suppliers of Data from the Philippine Coconut the Quezon province pays homage
various coconut products, it is no Authority (2019) shows that 68 to the commodity as one of the
surprise that Philippines has large out of 81 provinces in the country defining aspects of their culture
areas planted with coconut. One are abundant with coconut trees. as portrayed every Niyogyugan
of those is Quezon province which Thus, making it possible to support Festival in the province. Had it
contributes 86 percent share in the a million population of coconut not been for the health crisis, the
CALABARZON’s coconut production farmers, especially women, with week-long festival should have
— making it the top producing various livelihood opportunities. taken place in August when local
province of various agricultural and tourist could have gathered
products in the said region Wide-range benefits of VCO around coconut-themed booths by
(Philippine News Agency, 2019). With hectares of coconut plantation, local farmers and entrepreneurs.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DBIHIS/DA-CALABARZON
Each booth would be presenting (VCO) that is considered as the A local study under Team Asia
their town’s famed delicacies, most profitable product owing to Corporation showed that VCO,
accompanied by pleasing designs its wide range of uses for hygiene, when incorporated into medical
and music. cosmetics, and health. frontliners’ daily diet, could
decrease allergic symptoms, fewer
With everything else put on hold, Initial studies have been conducted palpitations, less hyperacidity,
Quezon province continued its by different government and improved bowel movement, better
initiatives in processing, promoting, non-government institutions on sleep, and increased energy (San
and commercializing various the medicinal properties of VCO Juan, 2020).
coconut products. Among those with regard to the fight against
products is the Virgin Coconut Oil the coronavirus disease 2019.

Citing the context of their province, and to uplift their quality of Through this project, one can see
the Department of Agriculture- living, the project empowers how research for development
Quezon Agricultural Research and women coconut farmers as (R4D) initiatives could serve as
Experiment Station (DA-QARES) proactive members in the process intervention and driver of the
highlighted that “according to of preparing, processing, and development sector in the country.
various literature, other benefits marketing various agricultural In line with the department’s
[of VCOs] include anti-microbial products. twin goals, QARES said that this
properties, antidiabetic, anticancer, intensified participation of women
anticaries, and possess disinfectant QARES tapped the CABAYAN Rural in the agriculture sector could
activities. VCO was found effective Improvement Club of Barangay further promote inclusivity and
against viruses with lipid coating Cabay as its research partners development in coconut-growing
(e. g. HIV, Hepatitis C, influenza); and project beneficiaries prior communities.
effective against bacteria and fungi. to the distribution of VCOs to the
This anti-viral property is now province’s frontliners. For more information:
being tested by several institutions Dennis D.L. Bihis
against the COVID-19 to address the Organized in 1994, the all-women Science Research Specialist II
current pandemic.” group with 35 members was Department of Agriculture
chosen because of their various -Quezon Agricultural Research
Thus, to aid in their province’s livelihood projects for the economic Experiment Station
response to the crisis, DA- improvement of households in their Tiaong, Quezon
CALABARZON through QARES community. As a new source of (042) 585 7101
reintroduced and showcased income, the VCO production of the [email protected]
their VCOs through a project group is continually enhanced in
funded by the DA-Bureau of terms of quality and quantity. References
Agricultural Research in line with its To help enhance production, Bihis, D. D. L., et al. (2020). Enhancing
Women’s Livelihood: Commercialization
Resiliency Response Research for capacity building activities on of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) in Quezon
Development (3R) Program for the improved processing and packaging Province. Project Briefer.
New Normal. technologies and equipment
availability are offered through the Bihis, D. D. L., et al. (2020). Strengthening
Rural Women’s Livelihood:
Uplifting the province’s women project. Commercialization of Virgin Coconut
coconut farmers and frontliners Oil (VCO) in Quezon Province. Detailed
Through the project titled, More VCOs from and to more Project Proposal.
“Strengthening Rural Women’s partners
Livelihood: Commercialization of More VCOs will be distributed soon Rocamora, J.A.L. (2019). Niyogyugan:
Getting the best of Quezon in a day.
Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) in Quezon to frontliners in other areas to Philippine News Agency. Retrieved
Province,” QARES distributed VCOs help ease the effects of the health from https://www.pna.gov.ph/
for free to 50 health workers, 19 crisis. To increase VCO production, articles/1078706
firefighters, 55 police officers, technology transfer to other women
San Juan, R. (2020). Virgin coconut oil found
and 12 members of the Municipal group is also among the activities ‘very promising’ in COVID-19 prevention,
Disaster Risk Reduction and in the pipeline. QARES also plans to management. Philippine Star. Retrieved
Management Office. establish two more market linkages. from https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/
Production promotion through health-and-family/2020/07/21/2029583/
To become productive partners in social media and joining KADIWA virgin-coconut-oil-found-very-
promising-covid-19-prevention-
the development of the community markets are eyed as well. management

PHOTO: CGUILARAN
Aid for Batanes garlic farmers

to come as DA rolls out support
to quality garlic planting materials
Jhon Marvin R. Surio
To date, the province of Batanes Batanes is known to be the top accounts for 394 metric tons of
remains as the lone province in the producing province of garlic in the garlic bulbs which is about 2.34
country with no recorded cases of entirety of Region 2. With a total percent of the country’s total
coronavirus disease (COVID-19). land area of 20,323 hectares, the production. However, over the
Its local government takes pride in province prioritizes the production years, garlic production remained
taking immediate actions as early of high value crops especially garlic, low in Batanes. Researchers
as February, by closing the island because of high market demands. observed that what was missing
to non-residents to prevent the was the right planting distance that
virus from entering the province. According to the region’s would maximize land use without
However, since agriculture is one agricultural researchers, about compromising bulb yield.
of the sources of economic activity 98.5 hectares of the province’s land
in Batanes, it is also one of the is dedicated to the production of As such, various researches were
hardest-hit sectors in the province. garlic, with an average yield of supported by the Department of
four metric tons per hectare. This Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural

Research (BAR) over the years to White garlic varieties. Further, the The initiative comes on perfect
produce quality planting materials project will also conduct capability timing as most Ivatans turn back
and identify various cultural building on seed production. to farming and even younger
management practices suitable ones appreciate farming more.
for specific locations across the Technologies to be utilized also Now, parents teach their children
country, with hopes to continually include optimal planting distance to engage in farming and fishing
push the industry forward. of 15-20 cm by 10-25 cm using the activities as means of survival while
dibble method; mulching with rice the health crisis persists. This may
The project, “Support to Mass straw, cogon, grasses, hulls with 3-5 also help the province meet export
Production of Batanes Red and cm thickness; organic fertilization demands for organic garlic.
Itbayat White Garlic Quality Planting as primary nutrient management
Material through Seed Production practice; and the use of organic- With the project’s implementation,
Technique in Batanes,” is one of the based pesticide (Parker Neem). production of at least 5,580 kg of
many projects funded by DA-BAR Itbayat White garlic and 23,580
to increase the supply of garlic Addressing the gaps that kg of Batanes Red garlic planting
quality planting materials that are heavily affect garlic production, materials per year is targeted from
clean and free from any observable particularly on nutrient supply and an 8.1 ha seed production area.
disease, through the mass spacing between hills and rows
propagation of conventional bulb, (Batanes still has vast idle lands), Around 60 farmer-beneficiaries
utilizing Batanes Red and Itbayat productivity in the province is are targeted to undergo planting
targeted to improve.
PHOTO: RHERMOSO

materials production (10 farmers preferable and suitable variety province, especially those affected
per municipality). Also, two seed in the municipality. Accordingly, by the COVID-19 pandemic.
production areas are set to be identified farmers in Itbayat will
established, both on-station and plant the Itbayat White variety. At present, coordination with the
on-farm in Itbayat, Batanes and six local government unit of Batanes
technology demonstration farms The enhancement of capacities and and identified municipalities
(one demo farm per municipality). awareness in plant propagation, have been done, and selection of
nursery management, and sites and farmer-cooperators are
The techno-demo farms in the production practices are also ongoing. The project is set to start
mainland (Basco, Mahatao, Uyugan, planned. Four batches of trainings, planting in October.
and Ivana) and Sabtang will plant conduct of field day and cross-
Batanes Red garlic variety. This farm visits, and production and For more information:
variety is preferable and suitable dissemination of about 1,000 Charity A. Verzosa
in the mainland and Sabtang due information materials are being Senior Science Research Specialist II
to bigger bulb formation. With aimed in the long run. Research Division
this, identified farmer-partners in Department of Agriculture-
the five municipalities will plant The project hoped to address the Cagayan Valley
Batanes Red garlic variety. While in lack of availability and accessibility Tuguegarao City, Cagayan
Itbayat, the Itbayat White variety of quality planting materials which [email protected]
will be grown which is also the will benefit 200 garlic farmers in the

Support our farmers and fishers
Buy local at Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita
(02) 8461 2900 | 8461 2800 www.bar.gov.ph [email protected] /DABAROfficial
BARDIGEST
R E S E A R C H FO R D E V E LO P M E N T
DA-BUREAU OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH

RDMIC Bldg., Elliptical Rd. corner Visayas Ave.
Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines 1104
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BARDIGEST

RESEARCH FOR DEVELOPMENT

The official magazine of the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research

Wilson B. Oligo, NVSU project staff, showcases the harvested

BAR R4D Digest is the biannual publication EDITORIAL BOARD

© Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research 2020

Planting tinawon today 9

Native pork products 12

Ubi mass propagation upped 19

Mushroom for livelihood and health 22

Healthy chevon food amid the crisis 25

Kids born out of butchered goats 28

RiceBIS: A strategy to enhance 31

VCO as catalyst for women 34

Aid for Batanes garlic farmers 37

fishery sector measures taken to prevent the spread of the disease

thru R4D To ensure the continuous supply of essential food

In line with this, DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research

4 JANUARY-JUNE 2020 | BAR R4D DIGEST

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6 JANUARY-JUNE 2020 | BAR R4D DIGEST

How to prepare the

1. Heat oil in a pot

Best served hot

PHOTO: DA-BAR ARCHIVE

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Also known as Imbuucan or Tinglu, greater mass production of the said

10 JANUARY-JUNE 2020 | BAR R4D DIGEST

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ESANA/NVSU

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With the continued success of the macro-

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ESANA/NVSU

On a similar goal, the second project will focus

From the initial one farmer association on the

Aligned with the DA’s Plant, Plant, Plant

For more information:

18 JANUARY-JUNE 2020 | BAR R4D DIGEST

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The project aims to address To kick off the collaboration

20 JANUARY-JUNE 2020 | BAR R4D DIGEST

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FENRIQUEZ/DA-CENTRAL VISYAS

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In these products, fresh oyster

The said project has successfully

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PHOTO: DA-BAR ARCHIVE

PHOTO COURTESY OF ESORIANO/DA-CLIARC

24 JANUARY-JUNE 2020 | BAR R4D DIGEST

Healthy chevon food amid the crisis

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