Faculty members from the College of Agriculture and Staff from President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU) San Marcelino with the leadership of the Project Leader, Mr. Diosdado C. Garcia, organized an extension activity titled “RiceUp Cabangan: Promoting Sustainable Agriculture through S&T” on November 14, 2024 in Sta. Rita, Cabangan, Zambales. This initiative is part of the broader extension project, RiceUp Zambales: Promoting Sustainable Agriculture through Science and Technology project, aimed at empowering local farmers with innovative agricultural practices for improved productivity and resilience against climate challenges. Further, said extension project is an offshoot of the Department of Agriculture – Regional Filed Office 3 funded research project “Promotion of S & T Based Program for Sustainable Rice Based Community Development in Rainfed/Upland Areas in Zambales”.
The extension activity, which also includes the MOA signing, was graced by PRMSU President, Dr. Roy N. Villalobos, Sta. Rita Barangay Captain, Jose A. Arca, and Buklod Sta Rita IA, Inc. President, Engr. Aristotle Daylag, who each gave their words of commitment for the extension project. Cabangan Vice Mayor Leo F. Bringas was also present and delivered a short speech expressing his gratitude to PRMSU for conducting an extension project in their municipality.
Farmers from the Buklod Sta. Rita Irrigator’s Association and Apo Apo Farmers Association from Cabangan, Zambales attended the training, which covered a series of topics designed to introduce sustainable farming techniques and climate change adaptation strategies. The event featured comprehensive discussions led by expert speakers from PRMSU, alongside interactive sessions.
The training session topics were as follows:
1. Climate Change and Agriculture: Causes, Impacts, and Threats – discussed by Ms. Kareen Joy B. Manglicmot
2. Vermiculture and Vermicompost Production and Utilization – discussed by Mr. Ullysses P. Navarro, MSc
3. Mokusaku Production and Mycorrhiza Seed Coating Technology – discussed by Mr. Luis L. Calama, MSc
4. Soil Management in Organic Agriculture – discussed by Diosdado C. Garcia, MSc
5. Integrated Pest Management – discussed by Mr. Luis L. Calama, MSc
6. Drip Irrigation and Fertigation Technology and Protective Culture/Tunneling – discussed by Mr. Lawrence Raguine, MSc
The program concluded with an open forum, awarding of certificates, impressions, and words of appreciation from participants.
This initiative exemplifies PRMSU’s commitment to supporting the local agricultural community by sharing Science and Technology-based practices aimed at creating a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector in Zambales.