DAFE, DCS Lead Urban Gardening and Hydroponics Training for Amuyong ES Under GEAR Project

On October 19, 2024, DAFE spearheaded the "Training on Urban Gardening and Hydroponics" for Amuyong Elementary School, in collaboration with the Department of Crop Science (DCS). This training is part of the GEAR Project: Gearing Up Amuyong Elementary School in Attaining Safe and Sustainable Environment Through Responsive Extension Services and was held at the SPRINT Training Hall, Cavite State University, Indang, Cavite.

The event, facilitated by Engr. Vincent V. Vergara, DAFE faculty, aimed to empower participants by teaching them sustainable and innovative agricultural practices. Mr. Jhon Vincent C. Caisip, Co-Project Leader of the GEAR Project, opened the program with a speech emphasizing the importance of urban gardening and hydroponics as solutions to modern agricultural challenges. Mr. Angelito B. Ilagan, President of Feed the Hungry Phil-Am Inc., delivered a special message expressing their organization’s support for this initiative.

The training featured several key lectures. Mr. Jhon Vincent C. Caisip, Instructor from DCS, led the first lecture on Urban Gardening, followed by a hands-on demonstration. Mr. Jefferson M. Mojica, also from DCS, conducted a session on Snap Hydroponics, which also included practical exercises. The final lecture was delivered by Engr. Al Owen Roy A. Ferrera, Assistant Professor of DAFE, who presented on Recirculating Hydroponics.

One of the highlights of the training was the Field Visit, facilitated by Engr. John Paulo M. Perido, DAFE faculty, which started at CAFENR CHARMS, where student agricultural projects from the College of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment, and Natural Resources (CAFENR) were showcased. The participants then proceeded to DAFE, where various student thesis projects were presented, including a hydroponics setup using magnetic water and a system for oyster mushroom culture. The tour continued at the CvSU Agri-Eco Park and Technology Demonstration Farm and concluded at the Central Experiment Station, where an aquaponics setup—another DAFE student thesis—was displayed.

To wrap up the event, participants from Amuyong Elementary School shared their testimonials, expressing their gratitude for the valuable lessons and experiences they gained throughout the training. The event concluded with the awarding of certificates, followed by closing remarks from Jomelito F. Encabo, Principal of Amuyong Elementary School. (VVVergara) 

DAFE Faculty Participate in DA-BAFS Sectoral Meeting on Agricultural and Fishery Machinery Standards

On October 15, 2024, faculty members actively participated in the Sectoral Meeting on Agricultural and Fishery Machinery Standards, organized by the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (DA-BAFS). The event was held at the BAFS Conference Room, BPI Compound, Visayas Avenue, Quezon City, and aimed to discuss and consult on the development of standards for agricultural and fishery machinery for the 2024-2027 cycle.

Engr. Kelvin Michael A. Crystal, a prominent DAFE faculty member, attended the event, contributing his expertise to the discussions on the future of agricultural machinery standards in the Philippines. In place of Engr. Richelle Mae D. Mendoza-Olpot, Engr. John Paulo M. Perido, also from DAFE, represented the university, further highlighting the department's commitment to advancing agricultural innovation and standardization.

The sectoral meeting focused on DA-BAFS’s plans, activities, and programs (PAP) related to agricultural and fishery machinery, seeking input from key stakeholders, including universities, research institutions, and the private sector. The collaborative effort aims to ensure that the machinery standards developed are relevant, efficient, and tailored to meet the needs of both local and national agricultural sectors.

Both Engr. Crystal and Engr. Perido played active roles in the discussions, bringing valuable insights from their academic and research experiences at CvSU. Their participation underscores DAFE’s leadership in agricultural engineering and its dedication to addressing the challenges faced by the sector through practical solutions and technological advancements.

The event not only reinforced the importance of agricultural machinery standards in promoting productivity and sustainability but also highlighted the vital contributions of DAFE in shaping the future of agricultural practices in the Philippines. Through their involvement, Engr. Crystal and Engr. Perido continue to elevate DAFE’s role in driving innovation and collaboration within the agricultural and biosystems engineering community. (VVVergara)