On February 23, 2024, the UPLB-BIOMECH Compendium project team conducted their Midterm Review with DOST-PCAARRD. Dr. Ronel S. Pangan, the Project Leader, spearheaded the team, comprising Engr. Ronnie Valencia, Engr. Marck Ferdie Eusebio, Engr. Ezra Ryza Noel, Engr. Yara Ayman El Adawi, Engr. John Paul Gabriel Tobias, and Maria Liza Espina.
DOST-PCAARRD attendees included Maria Teresa De Guzman, Romeo Santiago, Kathleen Faith Jay Villarma, Eman Noel Cañada, Raul Alamban, and Edwin del Rosario. Representatives from UPLB-OVCRE, Richelle Banasihan, and Domingo Abucay Jr., also joined the session.
The meeting was also conducted virtually via Zoom, and attendees include Dr. Maria Victoria L. Larona of the UPLB-BIOMECH Compendium Project with selected DOST-PCAARRD staff.
The UPLB-BIOMECH team hosted and facilitated the meeting, emphasizing project details, accomplishments, and challenges. Dr. Ronel S. Pangan extended a warm welcome to the DOST and OVCRE members. The Project Technical Assistant presented an overview of the project, leading to a constructive exchange of ideas during the review. DOST PCAARRD provided valuable suggestions to enhance the project further.
DOST-PCAARRD has played an important role in advancing the mechanization of agriculture in the Philippines. Through sustained support and collaboration with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Research and Development Institutes (RDIs), the organization has opened doors for changes in the agricultural landscape of the country. Their efforts have paved the way for significant improvements in the efficiency and overall state of agriculture in the Philippines.
(Yara Ayman El Adawi)