From toothpaste and shower gels to skincare essentials, seaweeds are integral to everyday life. Beyond their role in personal care and health industries, seaweeds also provide a vital source of livelihood for coastal communities. Recognizing this potential, the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) has invested in strengthening seaweed enterprises through science and technology.
To address the increasing global demand for seaweed-based products, DOST-PCAARRD funded the project, “Enhancing the Development and Growth of Seaweed-based Enterprises in Sorsogon (EDGES).” Implemented by the Sorsogon State University (SorSU) from October 2022 to September 2024, the project sought to improve the resilience, productivity, and profitability of seaweed enterprises. By establishing seaweed nurseries and introducing resilient varieties such as Kappaphycus, the project significantly improved the farming practices of local seaweed growers in Sorsogon. These initiatives not only aim to stabilize production but also to raise the market value of seaweed products.
Project EDGES takes center stage in the fourth season of DOST-PCAARRD’s Lakbay GALING Series, a YouTube documentary series that showcases the Council’s different science and technology initiatives of the Good Agri-Aqua Livelihood Initiatives toward National Goals (GALÍNG)-PCAARRD program. To document and monitor progress, the Agri-Aqua Business Hub (AABH) and Applied Communication Division (ACD) of DOST-PCAARRD conducted field visits in Sorsogon from May 5–9, 2025.
Interviews with farmer-beneficiaries from the Carayat Farmers Seaweed Association (CFSA) in Prieto Diaz and Caricaran Self-Help Group (CSHG) in Bacon revealed the project’s tangible benefits. Farmers reported improved productivity, increased harvest volumes, and a renewed sense of optimism for the seaweed industry. CFSA members highlighted the resilience of the red Kappaphycus variant against rabbitfish damage, while CSHG members anticipated stronger yields from the green variant, citing its high productivity.
A key component of Project EDGES is its partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources - National Seaweeds Technology Development Center (BFAR-NSTDC). Together, they cultured Kappaphycus species from Palawan State University (PalawanSU) to establish a seaweed nursery, ensuring a stable supply of quality seaweed propagules for local growers. To address post-harvest challenges, the project also developed a blueprint for a mechanized seaweed dryer, providing a reliable alternative to traditional sun-drying methods. Given the frequent rains in the Bicol Region, this innovation is expected to significantly improve the quality, competitiveness, and marketability of dried seaweed.
The project team further explored additional improvements in the value chain by visiting a seaweed processing facility constructed through support from DOST Region V and other local government agencies. This facility is envisioned to produce high-value seaweed-based products, offering farmers greater profitability opportunities.
Project Leader Dr. Richard Dumilag emphasized the effectiveness of the AABH methodology in implementing targeted interventions. He noted that tools such as the Quick Resource Appraisal (QRA) and Risk Management Process (RMP) were instrumental in identifying gaps within the seaweed enterprise system, ensuring that the interventions addressed actual community needs.
The visit also served as an opportunity to showcase the vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes of Sorsogon. The team captured visual footage of renowned local landmarks, including the serene Bulusan Lake, scenic Pacol View, charming Cogon Highlands, and the historic St. Joseph Parish Church, further promoting Sorsogon’s cultural identity.
Through Project EDGES, DOST-PCAARRD and Sorsogon State University demonstrate how science, technology, and innovation can uplift communities, strengthen local industries, and open pathways toward sustainable development in the seaweed sector.