Roxas City, Capiz—The Western Visayas Agriculture and Aquatic Resources Research and Development Consortium is hosting a three-day Farmers Encounters through the Science and Technology Agenda (FIESTA) featuring commodities in Region 6: native chicken Darag, muscovado sugar, mango, green mussel, and bamboo.
The event aims to showcase research and technologies developed by the consortium members in the fields of agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources.
Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Acting Executive Director Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora led on Monday the opening program of the event.
It included science and technology business forums, technology matching, exhibits, Darag native chicken cooking contest, and quiz bee, and poster-making contest at Capiz State University here.
In his keynote address, Ebora said: “FIESTA’s main goal is to enhance interaction among technology generators, potential technology adopters, and the investors to facilitate the flow of technology and its use for greater economic benefit.”
“We seek to inspire farmers and fisherfolk to elevate their economic livelihood from farm keepers to producers of products and services,” he added.
Ebora said the region-focused commodities have great potential in improving the lives of farmers.
“PCAARRD takes pride in partnering with WESVAARRDEC and its collaborators in their effort to develop and promote technologies and innovations on commodities Darag chicken, muscovado sugar, mango, green mussel, and bamboo. We will support the consortium in all its activities,” he said.
PCAARRD has provided funding for the research of the consortium members.
Ebora also led the opening of Technology Business Center in the CAPSU campus in this city. The council funded the construction of the center.
DOST Region 6 Director Engr. Rowen Gelonga and Capiz Provincial Administrator Michelle Del Rosario joined the opening program.
PCAARRD Applied Communication Division Director Marita Carlos and other officers of the council also attended the event.
CAPSU President Dr. Editha Alfon warmly welcomed participants that included members of consortium, farmers, agri entrepreneurs, and students from the region.