WESVAARDEC Hosts AANR Virtual Forum on Agri-Aqua
By Ian C. Espada, SciComm Coordinator
In celebration of its 35th Founding Anniversary, the Western Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (WESVAARDEC) organized its inaugural virtual forum on agriculture and aquaculture on May 29-30, 2023 via Zoom.
The virtual forum provided a platform to showcase a wide range of research and development initiatives, studies, and mature technologies from the Consortium Member Institutions (CMIs).
Day one of the forum featured presentations on innovative projects, including the following highlights: Dr. Julito C. Aligaen of Iloilo Science and Technology University presented the 3 in 1 Tractor-Driven Furrower; Engr. Monalyn L. Oloroso of Capiz State University introduced the Calamansi Juice Extractor; Elizabeth F. Amit of DA-Western Visayas discussed the Batuan Technology; Genalin A. Mangao of Central Philippine State University presented the Home-Based Muscovado Processing method, and Instr. Adrian C. Alumbro of Guimaras State University showcased the Spray Dried Pickled Mango.
On the second day of the forum, attendees were presented with insights into various topics, including: Dr. Evelyn P. Vedasto of Aklan State University shared insights on Cultural Management Practices of Red Spanish Pineapple; Mr. Joel P. Vedasto of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) discussed Seaweeds; Dr. Corazon G. Acaba of the University of Negros Occidental presented on Dairy Cattle, and Dr. Donabelle Mongao of Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology showcased Bangus Kroepck.
During the event, the official website of WESVAARDEC, www.wesvaardec.com, was officially launched. This website serves as a comprehensive repository of information about the consortium's programs, activities, announcements, and other pertinent details.
The AANR Virtual Forum was a resounding success, offering an interactive platform for knowledge sharing and highlighting the remarkable contributions of CMIs to the advancement of agriculture and aquaculture in the Western Visayas region.