The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) officially launched two projects of the Visayas State University (VSU) under the Coconut Hybridization Program (CHP) research component of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) through an inception meeting held recently in VSU, Baybay City Leyte.
Dr. Suzette B. Lina, project leader of the project,“Development and Evaluation of Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management Strategies For Hybrid Coconut Farming in Eastern Visayas,” presented the technical and financial specifics of the project. She emphasized that this research and development (R&D) initiative hopes to develop a holistic and effective fertilization program for hybrid coconut production in the region and the country.
Also in the meeting was Dr. Justine Bennette H. Millado, leader of the project, “Evaluation and Development of Biological Biorational Control Agents for Sustainable Management of Asiatic Palm Weevil (APW) and other Important Pests Affecting Hybrid Coconut in Eastern Visayas.” The project focuses on enhancing and sustaining the management of APW and other pests of coconut using natural control agents in the Eastern Visayas. Dr. Millado shared that the project is expected to monitor the incidence and damage of APW, develop an early warning system for coconut pests, and mass-produce effective and eco-friendly agents to control coconut pests.
After the presentation of the research projects, the Crops Research Division (CRD) of DOST-PCAARRD facilitated a discussion on project implementation and financial management to clarify inquiries of the project teams and ensure smooth project implementation.
The team also visited VSU’s laboratories and facilities, such as the Coconut Somatic Embryogenesis Technology (CSet) Laboratory and Screenhouse, and the National Coconut Research Center (NCRC)-Visayas.
The meeting was graced by VSU President Edgardo E. Tulin, VSU Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation Maria Juliet C. Ceniza, DOST Region VIII Director Ernesto M. Granada, and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Region VIII representatives. DOST-PCAARRD was represented by OIC Deputy Executive Director for R&D Juanito T. Batalon, Finance and Administrative Division Director Susan S. Molina and CRD Director Leilani D. Pelegrina.
