Siyensaya 2014

Posted by Estrella Gallardo | Nov 17, 2014 |

Siyensiya 2014 with the theme “Supporting the Nation in Meeting Global Challenges” was held at the E.B. Copeland Gymnasium, UP Los Baños (UPLB) College, Laguna on September 10, 2014. It is a project of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (PCAARRD-DOST) annually held in line with the National Science and Technology week (NSTW) celebration. Dr. Rex Victor V. Cruz, Chancellor of UPLB welcomed the guests and participants to the occasion and expressed his thanks for coming to this yearly event. Honorable Congressman who graced the affair stated the importance of the role of Science and Technology in the development and progress of a nation. He also expressed the need for a bigger budget for this cause, that at the present time is still small compared to its needs in the research and development activities and projects of the institution. Research and development in Science and Technology is the core for the development in agriculture, the main field of endeavor in the country in relation to other needs for industry and others. The modern technique in food production, processing and marketing are the major concerns of the country’s economy. We cannot dispense science in the development of a country; it is science that makes the world go around impressively, as I understand the gist of the message. Most...

Siyensaya 2014

Posted by Estrella Gallardo | Nov 17, 2014 |

Siyensiya 2014 with the theme “Supporting the Nation in Meeting Global Challenges” was held at the E.B. Copeland Gymnasium, UP Los Baños (UPLB) College, Laguna on September 10, 2014. It is a project of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (PCAARRD-DOST) annually held in line with the National Science and Technology week (NSTW) celebration. Dr. Rex Victor V. Cruz, Chancellor of UPLB welcomed the guests and participants to the occasion and expressed his thanks for coming to this yearly event. Honorable Congressman who graced the affair stated the importance of the role of Science and Technology in the development and progress of a nation. He also expressed the need for a bigger budget for this cause, that at the present time is still small compared to its needs in the research and development activities and projects of the institution. Research and development in Science and Technology is the core for the development in agriculture, the main field of endeavor in the country in relation to other needs for industry and others. The modern technique in food production, processing and marketing are the major concerns of the country’s economy. We cannot dispense science in the development of a country; it is science that makes the world go around impressively, as I understand the gist of the message. Most...

PCAARRD, WorldFish lay down 2014 workplan

Posted by Estrella Gallardo | Nov 11, 2014 |

Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and National Resources Reasearch and Development (PCAARRD) and WorldFish signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in October 2012 to subdity partnership by identified specific areas of collaboration and complementation for implementation in the next two years. Dr. Danilo Cardenas, PCAARRD Deputy Executive Director for Administration stressed that “PCAARRD always welcome the opportunity to partner with WorldFish and that it is prepared to co-invest in any planned Facilities aligned to the industry strategic S&T plans (ISPs)”. Dr. Leah Buendia Director of the Policy Coordination and Monitoring Division (PCMD) said that despite the combination of the partnership in 2012, MOU; no specific plans have been drawn up. She then painted the potential areas of complementation as well as those areas for new initiatives. Dr. Maripaz Perez, WorldFish regional Director for Asia presented the Aquatic Agricultural System (AAS) program and its activities especially in the Visayas-Mindanao Hub indicating the programs partners can pursue. She commended PCAARRD for developing the ISPs which helped them in focusing its research agenda for the AAS in the Philippines and in identifying its own priority activities in the program sites. PCAARRD Executive Director Patricia Faylon pleased with that WorldFish is intensely involving PCAARRD said that PCAARRD looks to WorldFish and CGIAR centers for technologies and technical support emphasized a two-step goal; enhanced understanding of appropriate and relevant fisheries technologies, and innovation so...

PCAARRD S&T Program to boost goat milk production

Posted by Estrella Gallardo | Nov 11, 2014 |

Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) – funded National Daily Goat Science and Technology (S&T) Program, milk production from goats is expected to increase in the country by 150% by 2017. According to PCAARRD Executive Director Patricio S. Faylon, the program will boost the development of local goat dairying and may eventually help reduce milk imports. The strategy from implementing agencies is to increase milk yield per doe by selecting the best performing dairy breeds and breeder animal suited to the country and by providing appropriate nutrition suited to the characteristics of these chosen genotypes. The implementing agencies are Isabela State University, Central Luzon State University’ Bicol Island University, Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office – 8, and University of the Philippines Mindanao. For starters, project implementers will conduct an inventory of stocks and evaluate the performance of dairy goats across the country. Results of the evaluation would lead to the selection and infusion of good breeds across the country through artificial insemination and buck loan programs. A herd build-up of at least 58% is expected with this intervention. With regards to nutrition, the performance of Indigofera as dairy goat feed will be validated, Although some progressive farmers have claimed that this species is responsible for the sustained high milk production of their herd, research data has to be generated and analyzed....

Faylon leads 22nd FFT TAC Meeting in Taiwan

Posted by Estrella Gallardo | Nov 11, 2014 |

Executive Director Patricio Faylon of the Philippines Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resource Research and Development of the Department of Agriculture (PCAARRD-DOST) chaired the 22nd Technical Advisory Council (TAC) meeting of the Food and Fertilizer Technology Center (FFTC) on July 8, 2014 at Nantou County Taiwan. Representatives from the FFTC five member countries Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam participated in the meeting. FFTC Director Yu-Tsai Huang who welcomed the participants gave a brief background on FFTC’s programs and activities in the Asian and Pacific (ASPAC) Region. Efforts of FFTC are aimed to spearhead the transfer of matured technologies and information among countries, and bridge the technology gaps between developed and developing countries. Dr. Faylon led the meeting proper starting with an overview of FFTC’s strategic plan for 2012-2016 presented by Dr. Takashi Nagai FFTC Deputy Director. This includes programs on climate change mitigation and adaptation, increased agro-trade under globalization, strengthened technology transfer for small-scale farmers, enhanced agri-extension services, and food safety and environment protection. From 2012 to 2014, the Philippines has contributed to FFTC’s strategic mission through programs on soil nutrient management, health and disease management for citrus and banana, and agricultural technology transfer strengthening. The TAC also discussed FFTC’s future activities, specifically, its strategic action plan for 2015-2016. This includes deliberations on strengthening the partnerships of the FFTC member countries among each other to...

PCAARRD, ACPC Consultation Meeting

Posted by Estrella Gallardo | Nov 11, 2014 |

A consultation meeting was conducted recently by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resource Research and Development (PCAARRD) through the Socio Economics Research Division (SERD) Credit Policy Council (ACPC) The meeting was held to level off the expectation of both parties on the program titled “An evaluation of the impact of ACPC Agricultural microfinance program for the small farmers and fisherfolk and their households”. SERD assessment impact team Director Dr. Alberto P. Aquino presented to the ACPC officers and staff led by Executive Director Jovita M. Corpuz, the objective, expected ouputs, research methodology, and key activities that will be undertaken in the evaluation study-matters pertaining to the operation of the Agricultural Microfinance Program (AMP) which would aid in the formulation of steps towards the completion of the study were also discussed during the meeting. At the end of the meeting conceptual and methodological concerns have been raised and addressed. A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed earlier between PCAARRD and ACPC to establish research collaboration between the two agencies. AMP is a joint program of the ACPC-DA with the People’s Credit and Finance Council (PCFC) and is part of the government’s Agro-industry Modernization Credit and Financing Program (AMCFP), an umbrella credit program created especially to cater to the needs of the agricultural sector. The program aims to improve the access to credit of marginalized farmers and fisherfolk...

Hospitals Need Genetics Counsellors

Posted by Estrella Gallardo | Nov 11, 2014 |

Department of Science and Technology – National Academy of Science and Technology (DOST-NAST) academician Carmencita D. Padilla in an effort to help address the gaps in the treatment and services for rare disease in the Philippines plans to push for the evolution of Genetic Counsellors in the plantilla of hospitals. Padilla also a UP Manila College of Medicine professor made the statement in reply to a question on how can the Philippines increase the number of geneticists in an open forum during the round table discussion, since there are only nine geneticists in the country, seven in Luzon, one each in Visayas and Mindanao. “We don’t have enough geneticists and we don’t need a geneticist in every hospital. At least a genetics counsellor can take care of counselling the patient and his family. The counsellor is not limited to genetic condition alone”, she stressed. Most rare diseases are genetic and involve fnctional and physical birth defects. Accoring to Dr. Mary Anne D. Chiong of UP Manila’s National Institutes of Health, there is no existing effective cure for theses disorders. Among the 7,000 identified rare diseases are Maple Syrup Urine Disease in which a patient’s urine smells like maple syrup, Mucopolysaccharidosis, Gaucher Disease, Galactosemia, Phenylketonuria, Hunter Syndrome, and Pompe Disease. According to the World Health Organization, rare diseases, also called orphan disorders, affect 6.5-10 people out of 10,000. In the...

DSWD-NCR hold first Regional Congress on Foster Care and Adoption

Posted by Estrella Gallardo | Nov 11, 2014 |

In an effort to promote deeper understanding and appreciation on the alternative family care program, The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the National Capital Region (DSWD-NCR) held first Regional Congress on Foster Care and Adoption with the theme “A family for every child.” On November 6, at Bayleaf Hotel in Intramuros, Manila. The congress aims to strengthen partnerships between DSWD-NCR, child-placement agencies, local government units, hospitals, family courts, the academe, and religious sector. Also, the said congress wants to instill positive perceptions about fostering or adopting a child by addressing issues and concerns related to alternative family care program. Regional Director Ma. Alicia S. Bonoan, said that the congress will be a great venue to educate member of the professional community on the process of adoption and foster care and sharing on foster care and adoption journey. “It will be a good opportunity to advocate the need for more foster and adoptive families to provide permanent homes to children,” she added. Activities during the congress include sharing of testimonies from foster and adoptive families and children to inspire the participants about their journey in fostering or adopting a child. Moreover, three licensed child placing agencies were faster care subsidy Ceremonial checks as provided for in Republic Act (RA) No. 10165 or the Foster Care Act of 2012. They were DSWD-NCR Foster Family, NGD Foster Family and Child...

Pinagtibay, Kapasiyahan para sa Wika ng Seguridad ng Kaligirin

Posted by Estrella Gallardo | Nov 11, 2014 |

PINAGTIBAY ANG KAPASYAHANG GAMITIN ANG WIKANG PILIPINO KATUWANG ANG WIKANG KATUTUBO SA MGA PROGRAMA, PROYEKTO AT AKTIBIDAD NG MGA PAMAHALAANG MAY KAUGNAYAN SA PAGHARAP SA PAGBABAGONG KLIMA, AT MGA KAUGNAY NA USAPIN, ang kapasyahan Blg. 2014 – 01; Serya 2014 ng mga deligadong dumalo sa wika ng Seguridad ng kaligiran; Pambansanag seminar sa Hotel Venezia, Lungsod Legazpi Albay. Isa ito sa mga paksang tinalakay sa Kapihang Wika sa paguulat ni Purificacion S. Delima, Full-Time na komisyones na ginanap noong Oktubre 30, 2014 sa lobby ng Pambansang Komisyon para sa kultura at mga Sining (NCCA) sa Intramuros, Maynila. Sa pagtitibay ng kapasiyahan, kinilala ng mga delegado ang itinadhana ng Philippine Disaster Risks Reduction and Management Act of 2010 Batas pambansa Blg. 43, Serye 9729; at Atas tagapagpaganap Blg. 43 Serye 2011 na paghanay at kahandaan sa pagbabagong klima para sa pambansang kaligiran ang itnatadhana ng Batas ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) (Batas Republika Blg. 7104 atas tagapagpaganap Blg. 335 na gamitin ang wikang Filipino at mga Katutubong wika sa mga transaksyon, Korespondensiya para sa mas epektibong pamamahala ng mga ahensya at institusyon. Ang kapasyahan ay nilagdaan ng mga delegado mula iba’t ibang ahensiya ng pamahalaan, kabilang na ang kagawaran ng Interyor at Pamahalaang Lokal (DILG), Pangasiwaan ng Pilipinas sa serbisyong Atmosperik, Heopisiko at astronomiko (PAGASA), komisyon sa pagbabagong klima (CCC), ahensiyang pang-impormasyon ng Pilipinas (PIA), at Tanggapan ng Tanggulang...

DOST’s Campaign to Rebuild Libraries For Yolanda Affected Areas continuous to gain support

Posted by Estrella Gallardo | Oct 2, 2014 |

The campaign titled: “Building Back Libraries for Yolanda-Stricken Areas” continuous to gain support. Various organizations and individuals have donated books and other reading materials in support to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) initiative to rebuild libraries in the Yolanda affected areas. As of April 9,2014, some 500 books were donated by the Don Alejandro Roses Sr. Science and Technology High School in Quezon City and 16 boxes of books from the DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) in Los Banos Laguna. Within the next few weeks, the Department expects to receive from its attached agencies namely: the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI), Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), and the National Computer Center (NCC) of the DOST-ICT Office. Ms. Rosie Almocera, DOST-STII Information Resources and Analysis Division Chief, said that they are inspired by the increasing number of contributions they have received from employees within the DOST family, public and private schools, concerned individuals and civic organizations. Said book donations include the recently donated closed to a thousand books from the Electronic Information Solutions, Inc. (EISI) as part of its 21st anniversary celebration by being part of STII’s “Building Back Libraries for Typhoon Yolanda Stricken Areas” project. The donation was initiated by Reuel T. Avila, EISI, founder and former employee of DOST-Philippine Council for Health...

Author: Estrella Gallardo