In line with the overall goal of developing the Philippine signature Muscovy Duck breed, a comprehensive training on improving muscovy duck management and production in Ifugao, was organized and implemented from April 22 to 24, 2025 at the Review Center Hall of Ifugao State University (IFSU) Main Campus in Lamut, Ifugao.
The training, “Muscovy Duck Breeder Farm Management for the Sustainable Production of Breeder-Quality Ducks and Continuous Improvement of Production Performance,” aimed to build the capacities of farmers, extension workers, researchers, and other stakeholders involved in Muscovy duck production. They were trained on breeding and selection, hatchery, and farm management to enhance duck productivity and improve flock quality. They were also taught environmentally-sustainable practices to ensure long-term production viability.
This initiative is aligned with the ongoing project, “Development of Philippine Signature Muscovy Duck Breed,” which aims to develop breeding and selection protocols; establish sustainable breeding, production, and distribution systems; and characterize the phenotypic and genotypic traits of the breed that would lead to a profitable breeder and slaughter duck production enterprises. The project is led by IFSU Professor Elpidio B. Basilio, Jr.
Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Mary P. Caclini during her welcome remarks. (Image credit: LRD, DOST-PCAARRD)
IFSU Vice President for Academic Affairs Mary P. Caclini expressed the university’s full support for the development and improvement of Muscovy duck production not only in Ifugao but also across other regions in Northern Luzon.
Dr. Synan S. Baguio, Director of the Livestock Research Division (LRD) of DOST-PCAARRD led the Council’s training team. With him were the lecturers cum workshop facilitators: Dr. Basilio; Mr. Herald Nygel F. Bautista, University Researcher I at the Institute of Animal Science, University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB); LRD’s Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) Managers Ronilo O. De Castro, who discussed “Feeds and Feeding Systems for Muscovy Ducks” and Alfredo Ryenel M. Parungao who presented “Muscovy Duck Breed Development and Profitable Utilization.”
Muscovy Duck Training Resource Persons during their lecture. (Image credit: LRD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Other key topics covered during the training included: Breeding and Selection of Muscovy Ducks for Continuous Improvement in Production Performance; Muscovy Duck Hatchery Management; Production and Management from Brooding to Laying; and Recording Systems and Performance Evaluation.
A field visit to the Muscovy duck farms owned by two training participants enriched the participants’ knowledge from actual experiences in duck raising and how the enterprise has become a viable source of income for their families.
To further support the participants' breeding and selection efforts, a workshop was conducted where they developed their own breeding objectives tailored to their respective farm enterprises.
Muscovy Duck Training participants together with DOST-PCAARRD training team and IFSU staff. (Image credit: LRD, DOST-PCAARRD)
The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), along with IFSU, continues its initiatives to reach its goal of developing the Philippine signature Muscovy duck breed.
Project sampling in Bataan. (Image credit: UST project team)
To control and neutralize White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) in giant tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon), existing methodologies for local applications, particularly using RNA interference (RNAi), are being explored through a research and development project.
Shrimp production has been one of the major contributors to the country’s aquaculture sector’s economic growth and food security. The White Spot Disease (WSD), caused by WSSV, is a viral contagious disease that causes high mortality in shrimp and leads to major financial losses in the aquaculture industry.
To alleviate the economic effects of WSSV in giant tiger prawn, the project, “Targeting essential genes utilizing RNA interference to mitigate WSSV in tiger shrimp,” is being implemented by the University of Santo Tomas (UST). Funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), the project aims to gain a deeper understanding of host-virus interactions, targeting genes that may play a role in the infectivity or pathogenicity of WSSV.
The project uses RNAi, a proven genetic technique that works by “silencing” specific genes effectively. Gene silencing is a modification process wherein it inactivates previously active individual genes. In this project, researchers are using it to silence key genes in the virus that allow it to spread and cause illness in giant tiger prawn. This is done by introducing double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) that targets those viral genes, preventing them from functioning.
This RNAi-based technology will be developed to prevent the expression of target genes in the WSSV genome to prevent the ability of the virus to multiply and cause disease in giant tiger prawn.
[Left] Project field meeting. [Right] P. monodon acquisition from various sources. (Image credit: UST project team)
An important part of the project is developing an “in vivo” method to produce these dsRNA molecules directly within living organisms, a step that could significantly boost the Philippines' capacity for biotechnology solutions.
In its first year, the project has already identified three viral genes that show promise as therapeutic targets for laboratory testing.
Throughout its implementation, the project seeks to mark a major step forward in protecting the livelihood of shrimp farmers and securing the future of the country’s shrimp aquaculture industry.
A major research initiative is set to address the growing threat of toxic algae in Laguna Lake, the Philippines’ largest freshwater lake.
Triggered by pollution, overfishing, aquaculture practices, and climate change, the lake has increasingly experienced harmful algal blooms (HABs), also known as cyanoHABs. These blooms produce cyanotoxins, which are dangerous chemical compounds that accumulate in the water and in fish. Serious risks can be faced by humans who consume contaminated fish, including damage to the liver, cells, and even DNA.
Sampling sites at the Laguna de Bay. (Image credit: DOST-PNRI project team)
The project, “Supporting Cyanotoxin Risk Assessment through Nuclear and Isotopic Techniques for Food Safety and Water Quality Management of Freshwater Lake Systems,” aims to enhance the country’s capabilities in detecting, measuring, and managing cyanoHABS. Funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), the project promotes the use of nuclear and isotopic technologies to effectively monitor and assess health risks of these dangerous toxins.
Currently, Laguna Lake is a crucial source of freshwater and supports a thriving fisheries industry. However, without a proper monitoring system or strict safety regulations, the public remains at risk of ingesting contaminated fish and water.
The project seeks to fill this gap by introducing advanced analytical methods, using aptamers, and creating tools to assess risks based on algae levels, toxin concentration, and water quality. Aptamers are target-binding nucleic acid molecules beneficial in cyanotoxin detection.
In its first two years, the initiative has made significant accomplishments. Researchers have developed a risk analysis matrix combining data on toxin levels, algal species, and water quality parameters. They have also designed aptamer-based test kits that may allow faster and more accurate detection of cyanotoxins in real time. This technology is still in the development stage.
Ultimately, the project aims to create science-based policies and real-time monitoring systems to better manage cyanobacterial blooms, protect public health, and protect the lake's ecosystem. Through public education and advanced research, the project hopes to boost awareness about the dangers of cyanotoxins while supporting the long-term sustainability of Laguna Lake.
DOST PCAARRD representatives from OED-ARMSS and SERD participated in the three-day conference series of WELA 2025. From left to right: Ms. Princess Alma B. Ani, Ms. Micah Angelica V. Adique, Ms. Sharon P. Batoon, Ms. Annette M. Tobias, Ms. Jo-jee T. Ocampo, Ms. Frances Efraim T. Valdez, and Ms. Mary Jessica M. Juliano. (Image credit: SERD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Aligned with its commitment and support for sustainable innovation led by women in agriculture, the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) participated in the 3rd International Conference on Women Empowerment and Leadership in Agriculture (WELA) held from May 14 to 16, 2025 in Butuan City. This year’s conference was funded by the Council.
Themed, “Women and Innovations for the Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (AANR) Sector towards Sustainable Development,” WELA convened local and international researchers, faculty members, policymakers, students, and representatives from the local government units. Spearheaded by Caraga State University (CSU), the three-day conference series aimed to address gaps in gender and development advocacy, harness gender and technical knowledge, and create opportunities by leveraging in-person discussions among local and global experts in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sector.
CSU President Rolyn C. Daguil reaffirmed the university’s unwavering support for all participants, especially women in agriculture. Also showing his support to women in agriculture, DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora highlighted the valuable role of women as the heart of agricultural development. He emphasized that WELA serves as an important platform to discuss and address gender disparities in agriculture, celebrate achievements, and strengthen partnerships toward an inclusive and equitable agricultural sector.
DOST PCAARRD GADSPU led the conference for the subtheme, Innovations in Food Security and Public Health. (Image credit: SERD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Along with Dr. Ebora, several distinguished keynote speakers also shared their messages of support, including Ms. Kate Turner-Mann, Director of Capacity-Building at the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) and Dr. Mercedita A. Sombilla, Director of the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA).
Organized under the leadership of Dr. Raquel Balanay, CSU Professor and Director of the Caraga Consortium for AANR Research and Development (CCAARRD), WELA 2025 focused on key subthemes, including gender equality, inclusive governance, food security, digital technologies, and climate-resilient agriculture. Plenary sessions and conferences served as central pillars of WELA, fostering collaborative learning and providing participants with the opportunity to present their research studies related to the identified sub-themes.
Ms. Annette M. Tobias served as moderator for the plenary session on Gender-Responsive Approaches in Agriculture, Aquaculture and Forestry and Natural Resources Research: Enhancing Equity, Innovation, and Sustainability in the AANR sector. (Image credit: SERD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Ms. Annette M. Tobias, Head of the Gender and Development and Special Projects Unit (GADSPU), who represented DOST-PCAARRD, took on significant roles as session moderator, chair, and rapporteur. Other staff members from the Office of the Executive Director for Administration, Resource Management and Support Services (OED-ARMSS) and the Socio-Economic Research Division (SERD) also contributed to the three-day conference.
Four DOST-PCAARRD-funded GAD projects were presented in a plenary session under Gender-Responsive Approaches in Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Forestry and Natural Resources Research: Enhancing Equity, Innovation, and Sustainability in the AANR sector. These included the following: “Comprehensive Gender Analysis of R&D Projects in Selected Commodities in the AANR Sector,” led by Dr. Melanie P. Tolentino of Central Luzon State University (CLSU); “Development of a Gender-Responsive Knowledge Transfer Pathway for Potential Adoption of Best Practices in Philippine Vegetable Production Systems,” under Dr. Lilian Nuñez of the Visayas State University (VSU); “Improving Agricultural Productivity and Competitiveness of Women Livelihood Operators through Gender-Responsive S&T Strategies,” headed by Asst. Prof. Lei A. Pangilinan-Jamolin from the University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB), and “Gender Impact Assessment of Forest Conservation Projects Among Indigenous Peoples in Luzon, Philippines,” under the leadership of Dr. Felisa L. Malabayabas also from UPLB.
WELA highlighted the progressive contributions of women towards agriculture through research and development. Moreover, this conference underscored the importance of gender-responsive innovation and women’s pivotal role in championing gender equality and leadership in the AANR sector. The conference also served as a platform to develop partnerships, collaborations, and opportunities for different stakeholders towards inclusive and sustainable agricultural development.
On the third day of the event, Ms. Tobias shared the Council’s GAD R&D framework and Agenda, which serves as a roadmap for integrating gender in research and development and outlines ways to achieve a more gender-inclusive, resilient, and sustainable AANR sector through science, technology, and innovation. It also encourages collaboration and partnerships among WELA participants.
Ms. Sharon P. Batoon expressed her appreciation to the WELA conference, highlighting the importance of collaboration in research and capacity development to ensure women empowerment and gender equity in AANR. (Image credit: SERD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Closing the event was DOST-PCAARRD Deputy Executive Director Dr. Melvin B. Carlos of OED-ARMSS, represented by Ms. Sharon P. Batoon, OED-ARMSS Supervising Science Research Specialist and Head Executive Officer, expressed gratitude and appreciation for the successful conduct of WELA 2025 recognizing the vital role of organizers, speakers, and participants of WELA. Ms. Batoon also reaffirmed the importance of research and collaboration, providing a platform for researchers, leaders, and stakeholders to discuss and create meaningful insights for advancing women's empowerment in agriculture. As a call to action, she emphasized the need to address the identified gaps in gender research as well as to continuously strengthen capacity building among researchers towards gender mainstreaming in programs and projects in the AANR sector.
The WELA conference is an annual initiative led by eight Filipinas trained under ACIAR’s Meryl Williams Fellowship (MWF) Program. It is designed to be an effective and engaging platform for convergence towards inclusive, equitable, and sustainable development goals in AANR. Looking ahead, Cavite State University (CvSU) has been announced as the host of the next WELA conference, signaling continued momentum for gender-responsive innovation in the years to come.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony during the inauguration of the PSHS-MC Technology Transfer and Licensing Office (TTLO). (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
The Technology Transfer and Licensing Office (TTLO) of the Philippine Science High School – Main Campus (PSHS-MC) was formally inaugurated on May 19, 2025 at the PSHS-MC in Quezon City. The Main Campus is the 12th in the PSHS System to establish a dedicated office that manages intellectual property and promotes utilization of research-based innovations.
The event was graced by officials from the PSHS System, the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), and other partners from the academe.
In his welcome message, PSHS-MC Campus Director Rod Allan A. De Lara emphasized the importance of the TTLO in contributing to national development. “The TTLO plays a vital role in uplifting livelihoods by bringing science and innovation closer to the Filipino people,” he said.
Ms. Lucy Lastimosa, Assistant Director of the Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD), delivers a message during the inauguration of the Technology Transfer and Licensing Office (TTLO) at the Philippine Science High School–Main Campus. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
PSHS System Executive Director Ronnalee Orteza inspired the attendees by highlighting how the TTLO will serve as a bridge between academic innovations and societal impact. “Let us remember that this is just the beginning. The success of the TTLO lies in our hands,” she remarked.
Representing DOST-PCAARRD, Ms. Lucy Lastimosa, Assistant Director of the Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD), reaffirmed the strong collaboration between the government and academe in building a vibrant and competitive innovation ecosystem. She noted that partnerships like this are critical in turning science-based outputs into real-world solutions.
Ms. Jodi Mylene M. Lopez, Science Education Specialist and Project Leader of the DOST-PCAARRD-supported initiative, “Developing Technology Transfer Capacity of PSHSS,” provided an overview of the project’s key milestones. She stressed that the lessons learned from the first phase will guide their approach in the succeeding phase – commercializing PSHS-developed technologies.
Unveiling of the Technology Transfer and Licensing Office (TTLO) marker at the Philippine Science High School–Main Campus. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)
The program concluded with a closing remark from Ms. Catherine Joy Dela Cruz, Technology Licensing Officer of PSHS-MC, who shared the office’s accomplishments and accepted the challenge to further scale their efforts.
With the continued expansion of its TTLO network, the PSHS System is taking significant strides toward fostering an innovation ecosystem that ensures science and technology outputs reach industries and communities across the country.
