Published December 11, 2024 by Campus Information Office
The College of Agriculture at Cagayan State University-Gonzaga launched a three-day capacity-building program on December 10, aimed at enhancing agricultural practices through technology-based techniques and machinery while promoting the campus’s tissue-culture laboratory. The event, held at the MABRIC Conference Hall, focused on equipping local farmers and stakeholders with innovative skills to improve crop production and sustainability.
The first day of the program centered on rapid multiplication techniques and field production management for potato, sweet potato, and other tuber crops. Farmers and representatives from local government units (LGUs) of Buguey, Gonzaga, Sta. Teresita, and Sta. Ana participated, alongside members of the Tanap Greening Cooperative and Mabuhay Agricrop Cooperative.
Mrs. Mary May Baclig, Campus Administrative Officer, welcomed the participants on behalf of CSU-Gonzaga’s CEO, Dr. Froilan A. Pacris, Jr. In her opening remarks, Mrs. Baclig highlighted the importance of diversifying crops beyond traditional staples like rice and corn, especially in light of recent typhoons that disrupted agricultural activities. She emphasized the program's goal of fostering sustainable development and livelihoods for farmers in the region.
Dr. Jayrome Butay, Dean of the College of Agriculture, provided the rationale for the program. He underscored the initiative's alignment with MABRIC’s mission to enhance agricultural productivity and equip farmers with modern techniques for macro and micro-propagation of tuber crops. "Using modern technologies, we aim to capacitate farmers to achieve greater yields and sustainability," Dr. Butay remarked.
The day’s activities featured lectures on tuberous crops led by experts from the Northern Philippine Root Crops Research and Training Center (NPRCRTC) based in Baguio City. Mr. Gabby Dao-Ines and Mr. Cleje Ail Dogyang discussed topics such as greenhouse management, pest and disease control, and field management practices. A hands-on session allowed participants to apply the techniques discussed.
Engagement was high throughout the day, with participants actively interacting with the speakers and sharing insights and concerns. Mrs. Baclig addressed these concerns, ensuring that the discussions were productive and beneficial to all attendees.
The program’s opening day set the stage for a transformative experience for the participants, who left with enhanced knowledge and optimism about the future of agriculture in their communities.
Photos: Office of the Campus MIS