As the main coordinator of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in accordance with the AFMech law, UPLB-BIOMECH is actively seeking ways to collaborate with these institutions. One such initiative is the ongoing project on the Compendium of Agricultural Technologies, which has been introduced to Isabela State University (ISU).
UPLB-BIOMECH Compendium and PQS Project Team Members visited ISU in Echague, Isabela on October 5, 2023 for an initial information gathering for the Compendium project.
The primary goal of this project is to create a comprehensive compendium of agricultural and fisheries mechanization technologies developed by various research institutions, HEIs/SUCs, Research and Development Institutions, and Private Institutions. This compendium will support the AFMech Law’s objectives, and aims to prevent duplication of research efforts in the field of mechanization technologies. Furthermore, it will serve as a reference in shaping the AFMechRDE agenda. The project also intends to establish a long-term collaboration with HEIs through partnerships.
Dr. Ronel S. Pangan, the Project Leader and Director, led the BIOMECH Project Team, along with team members including Engr. Marck Ferdie Eusebio, Project Staff and Project Technical Assistants: Engr. Ezra Noel, Engr. John Paul Tobias, and Engr. Yara Ayman El Adawi. The team was joined by Engr. Marife Reano Santiago and Engr. Glenmar Enriquez of the UPLB-BIOMECH project titled “Policy Study on the Implementation of Pinoy Quality Seal (or Quality Assurance System) for the Local Agri-Fisheries Machinery Sector,” a Department of Agriculture – Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (DA-PCAF)-funded project.
During the visit, Dr. Pangan had a discussion with Dr. Joel M. Alcaraz, ISU EMC Director, highlighted various opportunities for future collaborations including research projects and possible internship programs. Additionally, the Compendium Project was introduced as a catalogue showcasing locally available agricultural technologies, providing detailed information on these technologies to help local HEIs promote them effectively.
HEIs play a pivotal role in the development of agricultural technologies, with their students, faculties, and researchers actively contributing to advancements in this field.
(Yara Ayman El Adawi)