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Central Luzon State University

Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Philippines 3120

CLSU, Japanese Institutions Address Key Issues in Banana and Cacao at Int’l Forum

Sep. 27, 2024

StratCom | SCO

The Central Luzon State University (CLSU) and Tamagawa University (TU) of Japan, in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), tackled key issues and concerns in banana and cacao production, with a focus on disease management, during an International Forum held today, September 27, 2024, at the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) in Quezon City. The event brought together various stakeholders from the industry to discuss challenges and solutions. Dubbed as the 1st International Stakeholders’ Forum of Banana and Cacao Diseases Management (BaCaDM) in the Philippines, Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, CLSU President and BaCaDM Project Director, delivered an opening message recognizing the crucial roles of all stakeholders involved in this JICA-funded project. In his speech, President Abella emphasized the vital importance of active participation and commitment from all stakeholders to achieve the project's objectives. He assured the attendees that CLSU remains fully committed to supporting the initiative, aiming to benefit not only the banana and cacao industries but also the workers and consumers who rely on them. “CLSU will stay committed to innovative efforts in agricultural research and development and in harnessing our international linkages for programs and projects like this that will benefit the people not only in our local communities but all over the world,” said Dr. Abella. The forum was attended by researchers from CLSU and TU, representatives from JICA, Officers from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, banana and cacao producers, and importers group, as well as the heads of agencies under DA-led by Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr., represented by DA-BPI Director, Dr. Glenn Gerard Panganiban. Also present were Dr. Ariel G. Mactal, VP for Administration and Deputy Project Director, Dr. Parsons N. Hail, Project Manager along with the Project leaders and staff Dr. Elaida R. Fiegalan, Dr. Garry Benico, and Dr. Jay C. Santos.

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Families of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Nueva Ecija took a meaningful step toward sustainable living and entrepreneurial growth by participating in a two-day training on organic farming, hosted by Central Luzon State University (CLSU) on December 6-7, 2024. The event, titled “Embracing the OFW Entrepreneurial Spirit,” equipped participants with practical knowledge in organic agriculture while nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset. A joint effort of Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Region 3 and CLSU’s Holistic OFW Program for Empowerment (HOPE), the training opened with an inspiring call to action from Prof. Janet O. Saturno, HOPE Project Leader, encouraging attendees to actively immerse themselves in the learning sessions. Day one featured expert-led lectures designed to build foundational skills: Dr. Carolyn P. Gonzales-Marzan shared financial planning strategies tailored to entrepreneurial ventures; Dr. Irene G. Bustos focused on fostering a positive entrepreneurial mindset; Mr. Sherwin B. Celestino motivated participants to adopt a business-oriented perspective; Mr. Ronn Adam V. Pontoy and Ms. Ellen S. Romero introduced the essentials of organic farming, emphasizing sustainable vegetable production and composting techniques. On the second day, participants engaged in hands-on activities, transitioning theory into practice. Guided demonstrations provided them with real-world experience in organic farming processes, ensuring a deeper understanding of the methods taught. Simultaneously, the Center for Tropical Mushroom Research and Development hosted the second batch of its Intensive Training on Mushroom and Spawn Production (Mushroom Pharming). This parallel initiative further enhanced the livelihood options available to OFW families. This collaborative effort reflects the shared vision of OWWA Region 3 and CLSU to empower OFW families through sustainable and entrepreneurial opportunities. By building economic resilience and promoting sustainable agriculture, the partnership continues to strengthen the capacities of OFW communities to thrive.

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