The book titled, "Protected Vegetable Cultivation, Management Options and Economic Potentials" authored by Drs. Clarita P. Aganon and Teotimo M. Aganon of the Central Luzon State University (CLSU), was one of the four recipients of the 2010 Outstanding Books conferred by the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST). The award was given during the NAST 32nd Annual Scientific Meeting held at the Manila Hotel.

The publication was published by the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) through its Scientific Publication Grant (SPG). Launched in October 2009 during the 22nd National Research Symposium, the book contains information and technical knowledge on the protected vegetable cultivation technology - the most effective approach in handling the harsh effects of biotic and abiotic factors that cause major failures in vegetable production in the Philippines.

Protected vegetable cultivation, an emerging technology in the Philippines, the publication is meant to assists vegetable farmers improve their production thereby increasing their income. This technology of growing vegetables under covering materials/structures protects the crops from adverse weather (too much heat and rain) or pests' attacks. With this technology, farmers can plan and overcome seasonality, water scarcity and severe infestation that are common in open field cultivation. Eventually, farmers can grow high-value crops all year round with better protection against unfavorable weather conditions as well as infestation by pests and diseases. This technology also helps address the problem of sporadic supply of vegetables characterized by market - gluts but scarce and disappearing during off-season.

"The book came at a fitting time when the agriculture sector in the country is pushing for modernization," said BAR Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar, who regards the publication as an important reference material on the protected vegetable cultivation technology.

The three other 2010 Outstanding Books named by NAST were: 1) "Animal Breeding Principles and Practices in the Philippine Context" by Orville L. Bondoc; 2) "Philippine Fermented Foods: Principles and Technology" by Priscilla C. Sanchez; and (3) "Atlas of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology" by Corazon Y. Almirante.