The UPLB Center for Agri-Fisheries and Biosystems Mechanization (UPLB BIOMECH) together with Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) visits the Central Philippines State University (CPSU) in Kabancalan, Negros Occidental on February 28, 2024 to discuss possible collaboration and the DOST-PCAARRD-funded project “Compendium of Developed Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Technologies in the Philippines” in support of the AFMech Law of 2013.
The UPLB BIOMECH team led by Director Ronel S. Pangan, PhD together with Engr. Ronnie Valencia, Engineer II, and Engr. Ezra Ryza Noel, Project Technical Assistant V, discussed the mandate and role of UPLB BIOMECH in conducting innovative agricultural and biosystems engineering interventions. Together with the visiting team are Atty. Eric Reynoso, Program Head, and Ms. Darlyn Angeles, Program Specialist, at the Emerging Innovation for Growth Development (EIGD), together with Ms. Marie Cris Mendoza of SEARCA.
The crucial contribution of universities with locally developed agricultural and fisheries mechanization technologies to the development of a compendium. This compendium aims to assist researchers, interested end-users, and developers nationwide.
Initial dialogue was done with CPSU President, Dr. Aladino Moraca. CPSU PEDO Director, Dr. Maryvic Pedrosa welcomed the team and showcased their ongoing projects, technologies and products. The team proceeded with the discussion of the compendium projects and upcoming activities of the AFMechRDEN with the College of Engineering Dean, Engr. Kris Montinola, BS ABE Program Head, Engr. Alfredo Castro Jr., and Engr. Jolly Coronado of the ABE Department. Prolific discussion between the visiting team and have provided key insights that ensured the ease of the project implementation and continuous support of CPSU to the AFMechRDEN and its upcoming activities.
Throughout the discussions, there was a strong emphasis on the importance of improving collaboration among Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Research and Development Institutions (RDIs), and Private Institutions. The project’s success will play a crucial role in boosting productivity within the agri-fisheries sector and optimizing the efficiency of agri-fisheries production processes.
To know more information about the project, visit https://biomech.ceat.uplb.edu.ph/news/uplb-biomech-with-dost-pcaarrd-jumpstarts-compendium-of-developed-agri-fisheries-mechanization-technologies-in-the-philippines-project/ .
(Ezra Ryza R. Noel)