DA-WESVIARC dominates 27th RSRDH

Below is the complete list of winners of the 27th RSRDH:

Sunday, May 28, 2023

25th RSRDH winners bared

Sunday, May 28, 2023

PCAARRD conducts public procurement seminar for Iloilo R&D project implementers

Sunday, May 28, 2023

Central Philippine University shines in 24th RSRDH

The CPU research team  headed by Prof. Mizpah C. Villalobos with RRDG Coordinator Dr. Greta Gabinete, Consortium Director Dr. Noeni S. Nepomuceno, and RRDCC Chair Dr. Danilo Abayon (from extreme left) 

Central Philippine University (CPU) emerged as the big winner during the recently concluded  24th Regional Symposium on Research and Development Highlights held at the Center for Teaching Excellence in  West Visayas State University. The RSRDH  is an annual research competition organized by WESVARRDEC that showcases and recognizes the best research outputs in the agriculture, aquatic and natural resources sector. The activity is sponsored in part by the Grants-in-Aid (GIA) Program of the Department of Science and technology Regional Office VI. 

CPU's research entries "Antioxidant Activity and Citral Content of Lemongrass Tea" and  "Formulation, Package Development and Shelf-Life Testing of Lemongrass Ready-to-Drink Beverage Products" respectively won the Best Paper award in the Natural/Biological Research and Developmental/Technological Research Category.

CPU's entry in the natural/biological category bested 17 entries from consortium member agencies throughout Western Visayas. The study compared the antioxidant activity and citral content of various developed lemongrass formulations.  Meanwhile  CPU's entry in the developmental/technological research category which bested 7 other entries aimed to formulate and package good tasting beverage products containing high amounts of antioxidant and citral content  and subject these to shelf-life studies.  

Meanwhile, Capiz State University's entry "Price Dynamics and Volatility Spill-Over  Effects In  Farm-Retail Price Relationships of Chicken and Pork, 1990-2013 won the Best Paper award  in the social science research category. This time-series study investigated causality using Granger causation, co-integration and volatility spillover effects (“heat waves” and “meteor shower” effects) between producer and consumer prices of chicken and pork markets in the Philippines, using the methodology of the Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedastic (GARCH). 

Sunday, May 28, 2023

Research Utilization Confab on Organic Muscovado Conducted at Central Philippines State University

The S&T Development of the Organic Muscovado Industry in Western Visayas is a DOST-PCAARRD funded program comprised of 2 project components: Benchmark Survey and Supply Chain Analysis of the Muscovado Industry in Western Visayas and Techno Demo of Organic Muscovado Production in Negros Occidental and Antique. The baseline survey and the techno  demo farms serve as the jump-off points vis-a-vis the benchmark in order to establish the appropriate and relevant that may apply from 2011-2013. Once gaps had had been evaluated, documented and deliberated, then the succeeding components under Phase II (components 3 to 7) will be implemented. 

Monday, May 29, 2023

DA-WESVIARC dominates 27th RSRDH

 

The Department of Agriculture-Western Visayas Agriculture and Research Consortium (DA-WESVIARC) bagged most of the awards during the recently concluded 27th Regional Symposium on Research and Development Highlights (RSRDH) held last August 25, 2017 at the Research and Extension Building in West Visayas State University, La Paz, Iloilo City.

The RSRDH is an annual activity organized by WESVAARRDEC and sponsored by Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) to showcase and recognize significant R&D findings of the consortium member institutions (CMIs) in agriculture, aquatic and natural resources (AANR) sectors. This year’s regional symposium theme “Advancing Science and Technology towards Inclusive Growth (ASTIG) in Region 6” was adopted from the WESVAARRDEC FIESTA 2017 over-all theme. A total of 26 entries for the research (natural/biological science and social science) and developmental/ technological categories were presented during the parallel sessions in the same building. About 100 faculty and staff researchers and agriculture students from CMIs and invited high schools came to participate in the event. 

 

DA-WESVIARC dominated the developmental/technological category winning the top three best papers with their entries dubbed as “Philippine Rice information System (PRISM) in Western Visayas”, “Dissemination of Associated Technologies for Direct Seeded Rice in Irrigated and Rainfed Ecosystem” and “Deployment of Rice Crop Manager (RCM) Recommendations to Rice Farmers in Region 6” respectively. In addition, DA-WESVIARC won the 1st and 2nd runner up awards in the poster category. 

 

On the other hand, the newly reengaged DENR through its research arm Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) bagged the best paper award on the natural/biological science category with their entry “Biodiversity Profiling and Carrying Capacity Determination of Priority Nature-based Ecotourism Areas in Gigantes Group of Islands, Carles, Iloilo” alongside with the Capiz State University on the social science category with their entry “Status of Nipa Industry: Insights to Alternative Futures”.

 

Best Paper winners in research and developmental category will be the consortium’s entries next year to the National Symposium on Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (NSAARRD) organize by DOST-PCAARRD.

Below is the complete list of winners of the 27th RSRDH:

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

Gerardo is new RRDCC Chair

by Ian C. Espada (SciComm Coordinator)

Dr. Bobby D. Gerardo, President of Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), was elected as the new Chair of the Regional Research and Development Coordinating Council (RRDCC) of Western Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Research and Development Consortium (WESVAARRDEC).

In an election held during the Joint Executive Board and Regional Research Development Coordinating Council (RRDCC) 2^nd Quarter Meeting in Nothern Iloilo State Univerity (NISU) Estancia, Iloilo last June 23, 2023. Gerardo was unanimously voted by the members who represented various Consortium Member Institutions (CMIs) in Western Visayas.

In his message, he emphasized the importance of research and development in driving progress and addressing complex challenges being faced by the region in the fields of agriculture, aquatic resources, and natural resource. “Our foremost focus will be on bolstering research initiatives that contribute to the advancement of agriculture, the preservation of aquatic resources, and the sustainable management of natural resources,” he said.

Gerardo added through collaborative efforts and interdisciplinary approaches, he targets to generate innovative solutions, empower local communities, and promote environmental stewardship.

The new chair also laid down the five key areas to prioritize; to achieve WESVAARRDEC objectives such as enhancing research capacity, facilitating collaborative networks, promoting sustainable practices, empowering local communities and advocating policy changes.

In enhancing research capacity, he said that, “it can be achieved by providing support, resources, and training opportunities to strengthen the research capabilities of member institutions".

Gerardo, likewise, acknowledged collaboration as the cornerstone of effective research and development. “We will foster partnerships among our member institutions, government agencies, industry stakeholders, and local communities to foster synergy and leverage collective expertise. Through these networks, we will encourage cross-pollination of ideas and facilitate the translation of research outcomes into practical applications,” he said.

The chair will also prioritize research endeavors aimed at developing and promoting sustainable practices in agriculture, aquatic resource management, and natural resource conservation.

He said the efforts will focus on eco-friendly farming techniques, efficient resource utilization, biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation strategies.

Gerardo also believed research should be community-centric, empowering individuals and communities to actively participate in decision-making processes. “We will engage with local stakeholders, listen to their needs, and involve them in the research and development initiatives. By fostering inclusivity, we aspire to co-create sustainable solutions that address the unique challenges faced by our region,” he said.

The chair said, the RRDCC will actively engage with policymakers to advocate for evidence-based policy reforms that support the growth of agriculture, aquatic resources, and natural resource management.

“We will communicate research findings effectively and provide policymakers with actionable recommendations, enabling them to make informed decisions that benefit our communities," he added.

Gerardo expressed optimism through these strategic initiatives, the RRDCC can establish the region as a leading hub for research and development in agriculture, aquatic resources, and natural resource management.

He also invited the member institutions, researchers, industry partners, and community leaders to join hands with WESVAARRDEC to embark on this transformative journey.

“Together, we can unlock the immense potential of our region, create a sustainable future, and ensure the well-being of our communities for generations to come,” he said.

Gerardo is the successor of Dr. Raul F. Muyong, President of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) whose term as RRDCC chair will end on August 4, 2023. 

Photo from left to right Mr. Jon Alfonso P.  "Jono" Horvidalla of ERDB-CRERDEC (Reprsentative of Dr. Jose Isidro Michael T. Padin); Ms. Rheane E. Senangote of DA-BFAR 6 (Representative of Dir. Remia A. Aparri ) Dr.  Ricky P. Becodo of WVSU  (Representative of Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz); Center Dr. Mari-Ann M. Acedera Director, MRRD-PCAARRD; Dr. Raul F. Muyong of  ISAT U  & the Outgoing  RRDCC Chair ; Dr. Bobby D. Gerardo of NISU & the New Elected RRDCC Chair  and Dr. Anglie Rose L. Lumba of CPSU (Representative of Dr. Aladino C. Moraca) (Photo by NISU)

Other elected Executive Board Members were Dr. Aladino C. Moraca (Central Philippine State University), Vice Chairperson; Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz (West Visayas State University), Representative at Large/Treasurer; Ms.  Mary Ann A. Ramos, (Agriculture Training Institute), Agriculture Representative; Dir. Remia A. Aparri (DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources 6), Aquatic Representative; and Dr. Jose Isidro Michael T.  Padin (Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau); Natural Resources Representative. Their term of office will start on August 1, 2023.  

(Photo by NISU)

The gathering was graced by Dr. Mari-Ann M. Acedera, Director of Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) Marine Resources Research (MRRD) Division. She also administered the oath-taking of the newly-elected Executive Board Members. 

Friday, June 30, 2023

Pasidungog 2023 Highlights WESVAARDEC's 35th Anniversary Celebration

By Ian C. Espada, SciCom Coordinator

The Pasidungog 2023 event marked a significant milestone in the 35th Anniversary Celebration of the Western Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (WESVAARDEC), which took place on May 31, 2023 at the Park Inn Hotel, Iloilo City. 

A total of twenty Consortium Member Institutions (CMIs) were honored during the ceremony for their exceptional contributions and unwavering support in strengthening the research and development programs focused on agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) in Western Visayas.

The awards were distributed across three categories based on the length of membership. Five CMIs received recognition in the 5-15 years category, three in the 20-30 years category, and twelve in the 35 years category.

In the 5-15 years category, the following CMIs were presented with plaques of recognition: Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) (6 years); STI West Negros University (13 years); Guimaras State University (14 years); Northern Negros State College of Science and Technology (14 years); and University of Negros Occidental – Recoletos (14 years).

The CMIs awarded in the 20-30 years category were the University of the Philippines Visayas (21 years); Bureau of Plant Industry-Guimaras (24 years); and Aklan State University (29 years).

The 35 years category recognized the enduring commitment of the following CMIs who have been members since 1988: Capiz State University, Carlos Hilado Memorial State University, Central Philippine State University, Central Philippine University, Department of Agriculture Western Visayas, Department of Science and Technology, Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau, Iloilo Science and Technology University, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology, Northern Iloilo State University, West Visayas State University, and University of Antique.

The prestigious awards were presented by Dr. Mari-Ann Acedera of the DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), Dr. Raul F. Muyong, Chair of the Regional Research and Development Coordinating Council (RRDCC), and Dr. Pastor Jones T. Denusta, Consortium Director.

During the ceremony, it was announced that the 2024 Pasidungog would include additional awards and recognition categories, such as Most Active CMI, Oldest and Founding Member CMIs, New Members, and Best Paper, which acknowledges the CMI that consistently excels in research and achievements.

WESVAARDEC, founded on May 4, 1988, aims to establish a unified regional research and development management group that plans, integrates, reviews, and coordinates research programs among various member institutions and agencies. Currently, it operates under the auspices of the West Visayas State University, utilizing available resources to advance research and development (R&D) programs aligned with regional and national goals.

Pasidungog 2023 showcased the remarkable accomplishments of WESVAARDEC's CMIs and celebrated the consortium's 35th Anniversary. The event served as a testament to the dedication and collective efforts of member institutions in driving innovation and development in the field of AANR in Western Visayas.

Thursday, July 20, 2023

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.

Thursday, July 20, 2023

12 teams of researchers shine in 33rd RSRDH

Twelve teams of researchers emerged winners during the conduct of the 33rd Regional Symposium on Research & Development Highlights (RSRDH) held at Carlos Hilado Memorial State University in Talisay City, Negros Occidental on December 5-6, 2023. 

Of the 12 groups, nine were awarded Best Paper from three categories such as social science, natural/biological science, and technological/developmental in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources sectors while three for the poster category. 

In Social Science/Socio-Economic Category, the winners were: Anelyn A. Hapitan, Cyson R. Altis; Hean L. Camisora of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 6 (DAFO6) with research entitled Socio-Economic Status and Management Practices of Backyard Goat Raisers in the Province of Iloilo,1st place; Abegail Salvador, Ronelo S. Salaver, and Ma. Rosary T. Tesorero (Assessing the Efficiency and Effectiveness of the Implementation of the Binhi ng Pag-asa (BP) Program in Aklan, Philippines) Aklan State University (ASU), 2nd place; and, Mary Ann S. Dagunan, Catherine Amparado Kadusale, Daisy Rose Catipay Dela Fuente, and Mailyn Jambre Lusoc (Satisfaction of Nalundan United Farmers Association Inc. to Community-Based Forest Management Program in Bindoy, Negros Oriental), Central Philippine State University (CPSU), 3rd place. 

In the Natural/Biological Category, the winners include Ma. Carmen Primitiva C. Malaga; E. M. Bignayan; and J.M.V. Salvador III from DAFO6 with research entitled Expanded Collection, Evaluation and Improvement of Traditional Native Corn Varieties in Western Visayas, 1st place; Luisa P. Fulgueras, William P. Opher, Jr. Medifel Junius J. Panerio, Virgie S. Maciado, Grace T. Gilioagan, Rhodora Soldevilla, Denmarie Lodovice, Mary Joan A. Imperial, Emerson E. Ogatis, Lisa V. Estanol, Kenneth Lam-an, Arlene M. Escuadra, Jay Mart P. Martinez, Mary Ann Imperial, Laarnie T. Banda, Melodina A. Labindao, Geson F. Fuentes, Patrick C. Sta. Romana and Cyd Festin of DAFO6 (On-Farm Evaluation of Rice Crop Manager in Diverse Rice Growing Areas of Region 6), 2nd place; and, Christian Theo G. Acaba, MS, Mae Ann S. Tongol, Ph.D., Ma. Corazon G. Acaba, DVM, Ronnie G. Gicana, Ph.D. of the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R) (An epidemiologic survey of the prevalent etiologic agent of bovine mastitis in Negros Island: basis for diagnosis and detection of subclinical mastitis among dairy cattle), 3rd place. 

In the category of Development/Technology, the winners were Julie Ann A. Salido, Rowen R. Gelonga, Abraham A. Porcal, and Ma. Fe P. Popes, Miquel Von R. Oquendo, Mary Ann P. Martirez, Kirk M. Hilario of Aklan State University (ASU) with research entitled Design and Development of a Low-Cost Vessel Mobile Data Acquisition and Monitoring System, 1st place; Monalyn L. Oloroso, Efren L. Linan, Julito A. Albaladejo, Capiz State University (CAPSU) (Development of Computer Simulated Biomass-Fired Multilayered Fish Dryer), 2nd place; and, Dr. Ma. Luche P. Sabayle, Dr. Joel T. De Castro and Dr. Greta G. Gabinete of West Visayas State University (WVSU) (Development of a System for Soil Analysis via Short Messaging System (SMS), 3rd place.  

In Poster Category, Engr. Flerida A. Demamay, L.Hisu-an, E.G.Calitisin, P.F.Jagunap, R.J.Duran of DAFO6 (Technical Field Evaluation of Seed Sower (Granule Applicator) at Different Seeding Rate for Rice (Oryza sativa) Production, 1st place; Monalyn L. Oloroso, Efren L. Linan, and Julito A. Albaladejo, CAPSU (Development of Computer Simulated Biomass-Fired Multilayered Fish Dryer, 2nd place; and, Rhod S. Orquia, Juvy G. Narte, and Alex A. Tuyo, DA-Bureau of Plant Industry Guimaras), Canopy Management on Bearing ‘Carabao’ Mango Trees, 3rd place.

In the three categories, winners received cash prizes of P6,000.00 for 1st place and P4,000.00 and P3,000.00 for 2nd and 3rd place, respectively. While for poster category, winners received P5, 000.00, P3, 000.00 and P2, 000.00 for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, respectively.

A total of 49 participants coming from various consortium member institutions joined the symposium with this year’s theme “Enhancing Sustainability in AANR Management through Technological Innovations”.

The RSRDH is an annual gathering of researchers from WESVAARRDEC’s consortium member institutions where they present the research results and output and vie for the best paper award in three research categories namely: social science, natural/biological science, and technological/developmental in the agriculture, aquatic and natural resources sectors. This is an avenue where mature technologies ready for technology transfer and commercialization are identified or subjected to further refinements to be commercially viable. (ICE)

Thursday, January 11, 2024