In support of the Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Law of 2013 (RA 10601) the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech) and the Center for Agri-fisheries and Biosystems Mechanization (BIOMECH) of the University of the Philippines Los Baños hosted the 2023 National Higher Educational Institutions (HEI)/State Universities and Colleges (SUC) Consultative Meeting last November 28-29, 2023 in Angeles, Pampanga.
Chief Kristina Luz Sebastian of the Planning, Management & IT Division of PHilMech initiated the discussions on the status and updates of the AFMechRDEN. Mr. Marvin Palapuz of PHilMech, also presented the development and added features of the AFMechRDE Database Information System (DIS). The rolling-out of the AFMechRDE Agenda of 2023-2028 of the National Agri-Fisheries Mechanization Program (NAFMP) was detailed by Engr. Ma. Resurreccion L. Altamerra of PHilMech.
As the lead coordinator of HEIs/SUCs offering degree program in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE), Dr. Ronel Pangan, Director of UPLB-BIOMECH and Vice-Chair of the AFMechRDEN, spearheaded the delegation of the vital roles of HEI/SUCs in the AFMechRDE Agenda. During the activity, Engr. Ezra Ryza Noel also presented the UPLB-BIOMECH’s ongoing Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD)-funded AFMech Technologies Compendium Project.
The discourse during the said event altogether ensures the continuous support of HEIs/SUCs across the country in the AFMechRDEN and the ease in the implementation of the network’s upcoming activities.
(Ezra Ryza Noel)