latest

NEWS & EVENTS

May 16, 2024

MAFAR-BARMM oriented on DA-BAR’s Technology Commercialization Program and Product Development

Key officials, researchers, and staff from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MAFAR-BARMM) visited the DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research for a briefing and orientation on Technology Commercialization Program and Product Development on 15 May 2024 in Quezon City.Ethcel Princess P. Libang, DA-BAR Technology Management Section head, discussed the process of product development and technology commercialization, including DA BAR’s R4D Programs. She emphasized the relevance of conducting market-oriented research and the bureau’s requirements for its programs and projects. Libang also highlighted the importance of a paradigm shift for the sector, aiming towards a more entrepreneurial attack on agri-fisheries, “gusto natin na yung ating mga farmers at mga beneficiaries magbago iyong mindset nila kasi karamihan sa mga farmers hindi nila tinitingnan ang farming and fishing activity as a business. Kung hindi mababago pagtingin nila, hindi talaga aangat yung kabuuan ng mga farmers and fisherfolk.”Led by MAFAR-BARMM’s director Tong Abas of the Research, Development and Extension, the visit is part of MAFAR-BARMM’s efforts to capacitate their researchers and enhance their Food Processing and Development Center (FPDC) to deliver technologies in the field of food development.Abas is optimistic that they will be able to develop products given the support provided to them. “Siguro by 2025, meron na tayong mailagay na tayo dito sa Tech Comm Center [DA-BAR Innovation Hub] ng DA-BAR,” he said. He further remarked that their minister is fully committed to the region’s product development, by supporting the capacity development of its researchers and scientists from the different research outreach stations. The event concluded with a visit inside the DA-BAR Innovation Hub (formerly known as R&D Technology Commercialization Center), which showcases products developed by partner agencies from different regions of the country, and is, at the same time, a manifestation of BAR’s commitment to the small farmers and fisherfolk through scaling up technology based industries. 

newsevent
Apr 30, 2024

Lales emphasizes significance of agroecology in sustainable agriculture

In a national consultation to promote agroecology, where majority of the participants are representatives of farmers and fisherfolk organizations, DA-BAR assistant director Joell H. Lales presented an overview of the ASEAN guidelines on sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the significance of transitioning to agroecology, on 30 April 2024 at the Oracle Hotel & Residences, Quezon City. DA-BAR participated in the national consultations to promote and integrate agroecology within the cornerstones of the ASEAN Master Plan on Rural Development and the ASEAN Regional Guidelines on Sustainable Agriculture.“In relation to agroecology and the overall thrusts of sustainable agriculture, we have to conserve and protect our natural resources. Sa pag-improve ng mga varieties and breeds, hindi dapat mawala ang parental lines, kailangan natin sila iconserve for the use and advancement of future generations,” Lales said.Organized by the Asian Partnership for the Development of Human Resources in Rural Areas, through its member Philippine Partnership for the Development of Human Resources in Rural Areas, the event brought together representatives from government agencies, development partners, academe, civil society organizations, the private sector and the farmer cooperatives. Among those who joined are farmers and fisherfolk representatives from the Coalition of Municipal Fisherfolk Association (COMFAS) and Pambansang Kilusan ng mga Samahang Magsasaka (PAKISAMA). When asked about the challenges they encountered in food systems transformation, the farmers mentioned the lack [1] of planting area, no access[2]  to bodies of water, degradation of forests and the discouragement by some farmer parents of their children to become farmers too. [3] Officials of the National Anti-Poverty Commission, DA-Agricultural Training Institute and DA-BAR joined as government representatives, while the Philippine Partnership for Sustainable Agriculture and University of the Philippines Los Banos represented the business sector and academe/research institute, respectively.The output of the consultations will be integrated into the proposed draft Guidelines on Agroecology policy transition being developed by the Lao Initiative for Agroecology (LICA) to support the strategic orientation and implementation of the ASEAN Regional Guidelines on Sustainable Agriculture.same with this po: are they lacking or insufficiency lang po ang planting area?no access at all po or limited access? :)Was there a response//call to action from the NGAs present?

newsevent
May 13, 2024

ADePt-TBI pre-incubation training program concludes with tech pitch showcase

As part of its annual application process, the Agribusiness and Developed Processed Products- Technology Business Incubator (ADePt-TBI) culminated this year’s Pre-Incubation Training Series (PITS) for Cohort 3 applicants on 13-15 May 2024 through a Technology Pitching session to showcase the applicants’ innovative ways to utilize and commercialize DA-Cagayan Valley’s food processing technologies. The three-day activity intended to capacitate the applicants in understanding and applying the foundations of an incubated agribusiness startup endeavor, resulting in a defined business model and the capacity to communicate effectively their business idea.   The first day of the training focused on providing participants with a foundational understanding of the incubation process and the entrepreneurial mindset through sessions covering Incubator 101, Entrepreneurial Mind Setting, Tech Transfer 101, and Tech. Pitch 101.Following this, participants were introduced to Design Thinking and the Business Model Canvas to foster a human-centered approach to problem-solving and help participants develop a comprehensive framework for their business models.Culminating the training was the technology pitching session, allowing participants to showcase their innovative ideas, demonstrate how they could leverage DA-Cagayan Valley’s food processing technologies, and receive feedback from experts and peers. The following groups presented their business model canvases and product prototypes:Timpuyog Iti Babbalasang Idi Kalman Association pitched the utilization of mushroom powder to create instant vegetarian noodles that provide a convenient and healthy alternative to traditional instant noodles. Meanwhile, David's Agribusiness presented their integration of the Mushroom Kropek technology into their existing production of mushroom processed products, expanding their product line and catering to the growing demand for healthy snack options. Also, Exponent Credit Cooperative pitched their plans for the mushroom seasoning to be commercialized by their members engaged in mushroom processing.Utilizing the region’s gourmix, Nueva Vizcaya Cacao Growers Association Inc. presented a prototype to create a ready-to-eat chocolate porridge infused with vegetables, offering a nutritious and delicious option for consumers. Fredelina's Food Products delivered a compelling pitch for the market positioning of Cafe Bagga and Maize Silky Sip, highlighting their potential to appeal to health-conscious consumers and drive demand for OPV and glutinous corn. Further, San Mariano Farmers Agriculture Cooperative and Abet's Duck Farm presented their plans for the commercialization of Patochon, a duck-based product, in Isabela and Nueva Vizcaya, respectively, aiming to tap into the potential of the local duck industry and meet consumer demand for innovative and sustainable food products.Conversely, there were also applicants who presented their own technologies. Better Bater Quail Farm shared their innovative approach to adding value to quail eggs. Sheng Aquaculture and Fattened Mud Crab Farming proposed a solution to help mud crab farmers increase the value of their mature crabs. Also, Tres Canis Pet Supplies pitched their rabbit meat processing technologies, showcasing the potential for value-added rabbit meat products to erase the stigma against rabbit meat consumption and exploring new markets for protein sources.The Cohort 3 applicants will be evaluated based on their business model canvases, technology readiness, and technology pitches. Those selected will be invited to join ADePt-TBI's incubation program, where they will receive further support and resources to develop their businesses and bring their innovative ideas to market.Prior to the event, 12 incubatees successfully completed their basic and advanced incubation programs under the ADePt-TBI. Their achievements were recognized during the moving up and graduation ceremonies held in Gamu, Isabela. The 4 advanced incubation graduates adopted the following technologies: PakGulay vegetable processing; integrated farming; Neeruma peanut processing; and Café Bagga, Panderise, and soy processing. While, the 8 basic incubation completers adopted the greenhouse technology, herb production, duck meat processing, off-season onion production, mushroom production and processing, fish processing, adlay processing, and tomato processing.DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) Program Development Division head Raymond Patrick L. Cabrera graced the activity. Funded by the DA-BAR in 2021, the ADePt-TBI Program of the DA-Cagayan Valley was the first DA-based technology business incubator in the country. It aims to provide an enabling environment for their incubatees to be adept in the operations of their technology-based agribusinesses through its incubator services, while supporting and promoting DA-Cagayan Valley-developed innovative agriculture technologies.

newsevent
May 07, 2024

Pilot regional field offices presented positive results of 2024 SCALE-UP program implementation

Project leaders and members from the pilot implementing DA-Regional Field Offices recently highlighted their achievements in the Sustainable Community-based Action Research for Development and Extension (R4DE) for Livelihood Enhancement, Upliftment, and Prosperity (SCALE-UP) program during the National Review and Planning Workshop on 7-10 May 2024 in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte.The primary goal of the SCALE-UP program is to increase both yield and income by 15%. Notably, DA-Eastern Visayas and DA-Zamboanga Peninsula surpassed this target with an average 23% increase in yield and a 62% rise in net income. Meanwhile, DA-CALABARZON shared inspiring stories from farmer beneficiaries who reported significant yield improvements, and DA-Ilocos Region showcased the success of their Climate Resilient Farm Business School (CRFBS) in enhancing the knowledge and skills of farmers.DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) officials and SCALE-UP program focals shared their observations and recommendations based on their monitoring and evaluation activities. The accomplishments were presented across four key objectives of SCALE-UP, covering program management structure and policies; productivity enhancement and natural resource management towards sustainable farming; capability building and community empowerment; and sustainable livelihood, marketing and income enhancement.Based on the results and observations, DA-BAR director Junel B. Soriano committed to strengthening the program by inviting stakeholders and sharing the program's outcomes to enhance support for both the program itself and research as a whole. As a kick-off to this initiative, the SCALE-UP program team has invited former senior scientist at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics and sustainable agriculture expert, Dr. Suhas P. Wani, to provide technical guidance and expertise that will further enrich the discussions and strategies for the implementation of the SCALE-UP program moving forward. During the national review and planning workshop, Dr. Wani likewise discussed the challenges and perspectives regarding ensuring food security in the Philippines through an integrated scale-up approach.Assistant director Joell H. Lales highlighted the program's potential to set a benchmark for agricultural research for development. The experiences and successes discussed during the workshop will serve as valuable insights for other partners and agencies to improve farmers' livelihoods and productivity.

newsevent
Apr 17, 2024

Self-Care for overall well-being highlighted in wellness seminar for BAR staff

To raise awareness among employees about the importance of self-care for overall well-being, the DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research engaged in a three-day team-building activity on 17-19 April 2024 in Antipolo, Rizal. With the theme Ako Naman Muna, the event was attended by all employees of the office, with both physical and virtual participants.Kurt Christian Arcangel, licensed psychologist and psychometrician, served as the resource person for the seminar-workshop on self-care in the workplace. Understanding the significance of self-care as well as its long term effects on the employees, Mr. Arcangel shared some techniques and tools for stress management, relaxation, and burnout to equip the personnel in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Self-care isn't just about indulging in occasional treats or taking time off; it's a proactive approach to maintaining one's physical, emotional, and psychological health, he added. He further emphasized that employees who practice self-care are likely to experience reduced stress levels, increased resilience, and improved overall job satisfaction. This, in turn, can lead to higher productivity, lower rates of absenteeism, and greater employee retention for the organization. In his message, DA-BAR director Junel B. Soriano said, “The activity underscores 5R, which stands for reflect, reconnect, reconciliation, refresh, and regenerate, emphasizing that the three-day activity could result in more progressive growth and development of all the employees.” Likewise, he encouraged the employees to reflect– which suggests taking time to introspect and evaluate one's actions, experiences, and personal growth. He furthered reconnection to strengthen connections, both within the workplace and with oneself; reiterated that building meaningful relationships with colleagues fosters teamwork, collaboration, and a sense of belonging; and suggested revitalization and renewal, to take breaks, engage in leisure activities, or pursue hobbies outside of work which promotes work-life balance and prevents burnout.In a nutshell, the seminar-workshop is a manifestation that a refreshed mind is more creative, focused, and productive, ultimately benefiting both the individual and the organization. It provided a fresh perspective on opportunities for skills development, training, and personal growth initiatives that enable employees to evolve professionally and contribute more effectively to organizational objectives are just some of the many things that enhance one’s development. An annual employee wellness activity spearheaded by the Human Resource Management Unit, this year’s team building consisted of various games and engaging activities that were anchored to the overall theme of promoting self-care in the workplace. DAThis was participated in by the employees of the bureau, alongside the culmination of this year’s sportsfest festivities, which was facilitated by the Association of BAR Employees (ABARE).

newsevent