BAR to conduct agri and fisheries forum and exhibit at SM Megamall

24 June 2008
Miko Jazmine J. Mojica

About 70 exhibitors from regions all over the Philippines will feature loads of exotic and exciting product lines derived from the bounty of our islands' natural assets at the Agriculture and Fisheries (A&F) Technology Commercialization Forum and Product Exhibit 2008 at the SM Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall on 21-24 August 2008.

The Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR), an attached bureau of the Department of Agriculture (DA), is spearheading the event in time for its 21st Anniversary celebration. The DA-BAR has been promoting the commercialization of emerging and appropriate technologies related to agriculture and fisheries to boost the growth of this sector. These technologies and the products made out of them are results of research and development efforts of the DA's attached offices, state colleges and universities, local government units, non-government organization, and private sector which collaborate with the bureau.

The agriculture and fisheries sector, which remains to be the major driving force towards improving the economy, is positioning itself as a market-driven and profitable venture which can compete in terms of quality and accessibility in the global market. Through the National Technology Commercialization Program (NTCP) initiated by BAR, our farmers and fisherfolk are empowered to sustain quality production, processing, and marketing of high-value and indigenous commodities which is attractive to today's discriminating and health-conscious market.

The event will highlight the sale and exhibit of a variety of fresh, processed, and manufactured goods from fruits and vegetables to meat, poultry, and seafood, to organic products and striking handicrafts made of high-grade indigenous fibers sourced from the different regions nationwide. Another highlight is the conduct of informative and practical seminar-workshops and forum open to all for free that will focus on agribusiness, organic agriculture, and health and wellness.

Since 2005, the DA-BAR has been regularly conducting technology commercialization exhibit and forum in the national and regional levels with a limited audience. This year, the bureau is showcasing the bright prospect of the agriculture and fisheries sector to reach a much bigger audience from all walks of life.

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For interested exhibitors and sponsors, please contact the Technology Commercialization Unit at (02) 928-8505 locals 2626, 2627, 2621; email tcu@bar.gov.ph

You may also visit http://www.bar.gov.ph for more information about the bureau.