STBF Book Final PDF

ISBN 978-971-786-0077
Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic, and Resources Research

and Development Consortium (ILAARRDEC)
Mariano Marcos State University
City of Batac 2906 Ilocos Norte
The Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic, and Resources Research and Development Consortium
(ILAARRDEC) is a conglomerate of research and development agencies or associates
in the fields of Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources in the Ilocos region.
Based at the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), the consortium was established
on December 21, 1979, as the Ilocos Agricultural Research Center (ILARC) when a
memorandum of agreement was signed between the then Philippine Council for
Agriculture Resources Research, now the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and
Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) and MMSU, together with
the then Cotton Research and Development Institute (CRDI) now the Philippine Fiber
Industry Authority; and the then Philippine Tobacco Research and Development
Administration, now the National Tobacco Administration. It gradually metamorphosed
and finally emerged as Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic, Resources Research and
Development Consortium with the inclusion of aquatic resources in 2013.
ILAARRDEC is mandated to coordinate, monitor, and evaluate the implementation of

regional R&D activities; provide direction for consortium-led programs; and serve as an
avenue for resource sharing among R&D agencies for the development of AANFR in
the region.
Backed-up by 18 solid and supportive member-agencies, the consortium maintains its

commitment to extend its services and deliverables with passion for excellence,
achievements, and innovations. With the strong spirit of Ugnayan among its member
agencies, ILAARRDEC bagged the PCAARRD Most Outstanding Consortium in the
country thrice in 1996, 2004 and 2012 for exemplary performance as a Regional R&D
consortium. Since 1996, the consortium remained on the top three positions from the 14
consortia all over the country.
The consortium continues to partner with various institutions having mutual commitment
and aspiration to spur R&D in the region.
MAILING ADDRESS ILOCOS AGRICULTURE, AQUATIC,

AND RESOURCES RESEARCH
AND DEVELOPMENT CONSORTIUM
CRL Bldg. MMSU, City of Batac 2906 Ilocos Norte
TELE/FAX No. (63) (077) 792- 3420; 792-3688
E-MAIL ilarrdec@yahoo.com
WEBSITE http://www.ilarrdec.mmsu.edu.ph
ISBN 978-971-786-0077
Unleashing the Potentials of

Science and Technology-Based Farms
(STBF)
Edited by:
Leonardo T. Pascua, Aida D. Solsoloy,

Frederick F. Rodrigo, and Love Grace Campano
Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic, and Resources Research

and Development Consortium (ILAARRDEC)
Mariano Marcos State University
City of Batac 2906 Ilocos Norte

2014
I
LAARRDEC would like to express its appreciation to all the persons and
institutions that actively collaborated to come up with this compendium of
success stories of the Science and Technology-Based Farms:
The authors for sharing their success stories, significant experiences and
lessons learned in the implementation of the STBFs.
The editors for scrutinizing, reviewing, and polishing the technical and
grammatical soundness of the book.
The heads of the Partner Member Agencies (PMAs) who provided the much
needed institutional and administrative resources to support the
implementation of the STBFs and the publication of this book.
The focal persons, technical experts, and staff from PMAs for the splendid
display of commitment and desirable work ethics in the implementation of
the STBFs.
The MSs, LGUs, and the managers and staff of the FITS centers involved
for unselfishly sharing their resources, knowledge and skills for the whole
duration of the STBF projects.
The ILAARRDEC secretariat: Richard Guinsatao, Cheryll de la Cruz, and

Christobal Aguinaldo for the layout and administrative work.
The RRDCC Chair, Dr. Miriam E. Pascua and the Consortium Director, Dr.
Prima Fe R. Franco for their support in the implementation of the STBFs and
the publication of this book.
All the people who in one way or another have contributed in making this
publication possible.
Bibliographical citation:
Pascua, LT; Solsoloy, AD; Rodrigo, F.F; Campano, LGD. Unleashing the
Potentials of Science and Technology-Based Farms City of Batac, Ilocos
Norte: ILAARRDEC, 2014. 240p.
ISBN 978-971-786-0077 Philippine copyright 2014 by ILARRDEC

All rights reserved
PREFACE
The implementation of the Techno Gabay Program, specifically the
Science and Technology-based Farm (STBF) modality etched a significant
impact on the farm practices of the Magsasaka Siyentista in the Ilocos region.
True enough, the STBFs had contributed much in the improvement of farm or
enterprise productivity of farmers through the utilization of S&T interventions in
the production of various commodities.
This book discusses the different experiences of the STBF implementers

including the Magsasaka Siyentistas focusing on the R&D management in the
utilization and adoption of S&T Interventions in the farms. Each manuscript
contains detailed documentation of the activities including the profitability
analysis of the S&T Interventions. The focal persons and technical experts
involved in each of the STBF implementation provided the necessary inputs in
the manuscripts
Overall, this publication contains three major parts. The first part focuses
on the beginnings, enhancements, modalities, and other milestones of TGP and
the entrance of STBF as a modality in technology promotion, utilization and
adoption. The second part unfolds the experiences and lessons learned from the
S&T interventions. And the last part sums up the success and limitations of
STBF.
LEONARDO T. PASCUA
AIDA D. SOLSOLOY
FREDERICK F. RODRIGO
LOVE GRACE D. CAMPANO
Authors
iv
FOREWORD
In response to the efforts of the government to improve technology-
transfer and to increase farm productivity, the Philippine Council for Agriculture,
Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD)
conceptualized the Techno Gabay Program (TGP) that would enhance delivery
of science and technology information to the end users. One of the modalities
under this program is the Science and Technology-based Farm (STBF). This
program has been implemented in various regions through consortia, to include
ILAARRDEC.
The STBFs endeavor to improve farm or enterprise productivity by

utilizing appropriate S&T interventions that address specific gaps. This S&T
intervention is a mechanism that intends to address the gap in the Magsasaka
Siyentista farm or enterprise using supply chain analysis, documentation of
practices, and inventory of available relevant S&T products and services. In
Ilocos region, the implementation of TGP was undoubtedly a challenging yet
rewarding experience.
This book presents a glimpse of the experiences and success stories of

our Magsasaka Siyentista in the utilization and adoption of S&T interventions in
the production of vegetable, dragon fruit, garlic, tomato, bamboo, goat, and
sugarcane vinegar. Likewise, it identifies the successes and limitations in the
establishment and conduct of STBFs.
The insights that can be drawn from the experiences of the Magsasaka
Siyentista and the implementers of STBF are significant inputs in enhancing farm
practices through S&T.
MIRIAM E. PASCUA
President, MMSU
and Chair, RRDCC
v
Contents
Page
Acknowledgement iv
Preface v
Foreword vi
I. Introduction
Chapter I. Championing the Techno Gabay Program in 3

the Ilocos: An Exemplar of Science and
Technology-based Agriculture
Chapter II. Establishment of Science and Technology 23

Based-Farms: A Vehicle For Technology
Management and Promotion
II. Valuing Lessons from S&T Interventions
Chapter III. R&D Management on the Utilization and 29

Adoption of S&T Interventions: The Case
of Vegetable Production
Chapter IV. R&D Management on the Utilization and 57

of Dragon Fruit Production
Chapter V. R&D Management on the Utilization and 77

of Garlic Production
Chapter VI. Tomato Production in Alaminos City: The 109

Case of Magsasaka Syentista Mr. Jaime
Navarro
Chapter VII. R&D Management on the Utilization and 125

of Complete Confinement Method Plus
Concentrates in Goat Production
Chapter VIII. R&D Management on the Utilization and 141

of Bamboo Production and Rejuvenation
Page
Chapter IX. R&D Management on the Utilization and 159

Adoption of S&T Interventions: The Case of
Sugarcane Vinegar Production
Chapter X. R&D Management on the Utilization and 179

Table Tomato Production
Chapter XI. R&D Management on the Utilization and 195

White Corn Production
Chapter XII. R&D Management on the Utilization and 217

of Cropping Systems in Currimao, Ilocos
Norte
III. Understanding the Success and Limitations of the 235

STBF in the Ilocos
Championing the
Techno Gabay Program
in the Ilocos:
An Exemplar of Science
and Technology-based Agriculture
Leonardo T. Pascua, Love Grace dC. Campano, Lilibeth Paraoan,
Mary Anne R. Rarogal, Cheryll C. Dela Cruz,
Richard F. Guinsatao, and Melissa M. Rabanal
The major concern of the government in addressing farmers needs is the

transfer of technologies generated by research institutions. The Ilocos
Agriculture, Aquatic, and Resources, Research, and Development Consortium
(ILAARRDEC), through its member-agencies, has initiated technology-transfer
activities employing various strategies such as farmers training, symposia, pilot
projects, educational tours, and media campaign. While some farmers are
reaping the fruits of adopting technologies, others are lagging behind. The
diffusion of technology was apparently slow and the yield gap between
experimental stations and farmers field was still wide. This could be attributed to
the lack of awareness and knowledge about the technology, ineffective transfer,
lack of motivation, as well as social, political, and cultural mismatch. With the
aforementioned credits, a very costly but not adopted by its target clientele
technology generation became a useless investment. Ilocano farmers adopt
technologies that are highly profitable, socio-culturally acceptable, and
economically viable developed by their fellow farmers. Usually, the "to see is to
believe" attitude has more strongly influenced many farmers technological
decisions and actions.
The Techno Gabay Program (TGP) in the Ilocos, which is managed by

the ILAARRDEC has continuously provided information and technology services
to farmers, local processors, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders. In addition,
it succeeded in bringing the much-needed information and technologies to the
countryside. The TGP has programs that unfolded exemplary accomplishments
that paved the way for various insights learned through a mix of modalities such
as the Farmers Information and Technology Services (FITS) or the Techno
Pinoy, the Farmer-Scientist Bureau (FSB) more popularly known as Magsasaka-
Siyentista (MS), the Information and Education Communication (IEC), and the
Unleashing the Potentials of STBF 3

Information Communication Technology (ICT) Services. The TGP has been
anchored on the governments 10-point agenda, which have been translated into
the Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan. This has been the banner
program of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, Forestry and Natural
Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) for technology
dissemination and utilization that guides and facilitates knowledge sharing and
learning among various development partners and stakeholders.
Its Beginnings
The TGP evolved from technology-transfer projects, namely: the One

Stop Information Shop (OSIS), the FITS or the Techno Pinoy, and the Farmer
Scientist Bureau (FSB) or the Magsasaka Syentista of ILAARRDEC; all of which
were funded by PCAARRD in the late 1990s. Both the OSIS and the FITS have
been serving as one-stop information shop of technologies in agriculture,
forestry, and natural resources. This service delivery system facilitates the
effective and efficient provision of accessible information and technologies at the
grassroots level. Likewise, the FSB has identified outstanding farmers who have
been directly involved in research, as well as technology development and
transfer by enlisting their resources, knowledge, and experiences in partnership
with scientists and other ILAARRDEC technical experts.
The operation of the two technology-transfer projects was supervised by two

regional coordinators, however, each project was implemented separately in the
early stage. Two FITS centers were launched and six MS farmers were
appointed. However, after a few months, activities in both projects became more
closely coordinated. The FSB was focused on establishing technology
demonstration farms and conducting technology-promotion activities of the MS.
Meanwhile, the FITS concentrated on establishing FITS centers and reinforcing
separate technology-promotion activities. In conducting training programs, the
FITS centers invited the MS as resource person. As such, they provided
guidance to FITS clients who conducted lakbay aral. Moreover, the FSB and
FITS jointly coordinated field days wherein resources were shared by various
agriculture partners. To beef up the two projects, the Regional Applied
Communication Office (RACO) coordinator helped in producing IEC materials,
while the Regional Management Information System (RMIS) coordinator
managed the data base at the FITS centers.
From 1998 to 1999, the activities of the FSB and FITS projects were
developed and pilot tested. Likewise, the corresponding technology promotion
modalities were assessed based on their acceptability to the extension service
providers and their suitability to the local conditions. Eventually, the minimum
requirements of the FITS and Magsasaka Syentista were determined to
4 Unleashing the Potentials of STBF

maximize their potentials in effective, efficient, and sustainable technology
delivery.
Integration of Modalities into the Techno Gabay Program
With the plurality of experiences in implementing the different modalities, the

importance of integrating these under one program led to the creation of the
Techno Gabay Program (TGP) of the ILAARRDEC.
Just like in other consortia, the core component of the TGP was the offering
of technology management services. The TGP implementation framework
(Figure 1) highlights the interaction of the four modalities (FITS, MS, IEC and
ICT), which provide services needed in sharing, promoting, and commercializing
technologies that collectively ushered in a continuous flow of need-based
information to farmers, entrepreneurs, and extension workers.
The IEC services focused more on producing information, education, and

communication materials using a variety of channels such as print, broadcast,
and audio-visuals. Specifically, print materials written and translated in Iluko were

developed to facilitate comprehension among Ilocano farmers. Likewise, exhibits
were put up and scientific literatures were shared to the farmer-partners.
Additionally, the ICT services provided the data base of Techno Pinoy centers,
conducted training programs on using ICT tools and accessing the internet, as
well as produced ICT materials.
On the other hand, the FITS managers, under the leadership of the Regional
Technology Promotions Group (RTPG) coordinator, together with the techno-
promo specialists, closely monitored the technology services delivered by the
FITS centers, together with the adoption strategies of the MS in the region. When
the FITS centers in the region increased, TGP coordinators were assigned to
work in the four provinces (Figure 2). Specifically, the extension directors of the
state universities, which are ILAARRDEC member-agencies like MMSU, UNP,
ISPSC, DMMMSU, and PSU, were designated as the provincial coordinators,
while representatives from the Offices of the Provincial Agriculturists (OPAG)
served as co-coordinators. The TGP reinforced the extension services of the
member-agencies and it expanded the RTPG membership.
Furthermore, the need for the services of the RACO and RMIS coordinators
justified their inclusion in the program. In fact, the RACO coordinator, with the
help of the RMIS group, facilitated the techno-packaging and dissemination of
agricultural information and technologies to the farmers and other stakeholders.
Meanwhile, the RMIS coordinator spearheaded ICT-related activities such as

updating of databases and webpages. The ICT was needed in producing IEC-
based materials, which were reproduced and distributed to the FITS centers and
member-agencies.
The approval of TGP framework by the RRDCC and the Regional

Development Council of Region 1 signalled the programs full implementation,
which prompted the member-agencies to actively propel the realization of the
TGP goals. Likewise, the TGP implementation strengthened the member-
agencies convergence with the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the
LGUs where the FITS centers operate. The collective TGP practices formed a
working model of the member-agencies in enhancing the FITS project. With the
integration of these components, the technology promotion, transfer, and
commercialization program was invigorated by covering a wider service area and
bringing forth more S&T-based information to the Ilocano populace.
Start of the Enhancement Phase
In 2006, TGP was strengthened via the integration of two programs,

namely: Knowledge Networking Towards Enterprising Agricultural Communities
(K-Agrinet) and Enhancing FITS Centers for Rural Development (E-FITS). Six
FITS centers located in the City of Batac, and Bacarra, Ilocos Norte; Agoo, La
Union; Ayusan, Vigan City; and; Alaminos City and Sta. Maria, Pangasinan were
among the recipients. For the initial E-FITS funding, three centers were assisted.
Through the TGP, more LGUs got interested in the program activities. As shown
in Figure 3, the FITS centers significantly increased from 3 in 1999 (Year 1) to 76
Unleashing the Potentials of STBF

7
in 2013 (Year 3). Even those beneficiaries of the K-Agrinet were given assistance
even after the project terminated.
With the increase of the FITS centers in the region, the concept of partnering
with member- agencies was implemented based on the organizational set-up
shown in Figure 4. This led to a higher degree of the ILAARRDEC member-
agencies involvement in implementing the TGP in various provinces. The
nearest ILAARRDEC member-agency among the various FITS centers in a
selected province was identified as a Partner Member Agency (PMA). The
provincial coordinators were tasked to monitor and evaluate the FITS centers. On
the other hand, the MS farmers/partners were identified depending on the
identified focus commodity of every FITS center.
MILESTONES
Enhancing Clientele-Partners and Organizational Capabilities
Various activities were conducted to enhance the capabilities of FITS

center personnel, farmers, PMA staff, consortium secretariat, and other
stakeholders. Among these activities were IEC and ICT training programs, cross
visits, and social mobilizations. The ICT-based training programs were provided
to teach interested partners to operate the various systems developed. Through
this web-enabled system, opportunities for searching and accessing information
from the web, as well as communicating and generating reports through the
internet were facilitated. Likewise, the IEC-based training programs empowered
those in the PMA and FITS centers to develop their own IEC materials.

Moreover, other training programs that enhanced the capability of technical
personnel were conducted to reinforce the implementation of the various
projects. Meanwhile, the cross visits provided an opportunity for TGP
implementers to be exposed to the success stories and best practices in
technology management. The knowledge, experiences, and insights gained by
the TGP partners from the said activities have been translated into innovations
and initiatives, which were integrated in the various activities.
Furthermore, the local government units were mobilized through the

establishment of FITS centers and in partnership with government and non-
government organizations, as well as other stakeholders. This strategy
succeeded in sharing the needed information and technologies to the people in
the countryside. Likewise, the implementation of TGP in the Ilocos has been
empowered to recognize the efforts of deserving partners, which elevated their
confidence and sustained their cooperation. Many Magsasaka Syentistas and
other partners were recognized regionally, nationally as well as internationally for
their exemplary contributions in agriculture.
Packaging and Sharing S&T-based Information
The Magsasaka Syentistas have excelled in their chosen field and have
etched a name and reputation in their respective areas as successful farmers
and entrepreneurs. Because of their innovativeness and ingenuity, they
generated their own farm practices that they shared to other farmers and
interested agricultural extension workers, students, and entrepreneurs. By doing
that, they immensely contributed in attaining the TGP thrust. Those agricultural
practices were documented and later on packaged into various reading
materials. Likewise, several need-based package of technologies (POT) and
component technologies were developed into IEC materials such as leaflets,
information bulletin, farm primers, technology posters, and brochures, as well as
multimedia products. These were later on featured in newsletters, magazines, TV
or radio programs, and even national dailies. These were also disseminated
through the ILAARRDEC web site and Facebook account. Most of the IEC
materials were presented in Iluko to facilitate understanding among the clientele.
All the printed materials are still available at the FITS centers for free distribution
to walk-in clients and training participants.
Aside from sharing the technologies via print and broadcast materials,
they were likewise showcased during farm demonstrations, field days, techno
fora, school, and organization events, exhibits, and festivals. These technologies
were commercialized in partnership with cooperatives, associations, small
groups and individuals.

Expanding Services
The oversupply and the low price of produce have been the perennial
problems during harvest months. Those problems prompted the search for ways
that maximized the utilization of agricultural products via value-adding initiatives.
Consequently, several training programs along that line were conducted. They
were reinforced by lecture-demonstration on product packaging and labeling,
food safety and handling, and testing. Those training programs equipped
participants with opportunities to enhance productivity not only among farmers
but their wives and other family members as well. Through the value-adding and
value-creation efforts, profit of farmers and entrepreneurs in various communities
of the region increased tremendously.
The TGP implementation at the regional level has produced a wide array
of valuable information not only in research and development (R & D) utilization
and technology services but also in program management. Various adjustment
and innovative strategies that suit the local context and realities greatly
influenced program implementation and created a significant impact on the
stakeholders. Indeed, valuable insights and lessons have been drawn from the
TGP initiatives, which collectively served as a working model in enhancing and
fine tuning program management at the regional and national levels. As such, the
TGP has strengthened and sustained management technology promotion and
commercialization of various technologies that could help increase the economic
productivity of various partners and stakeholders.
Institutionalizing Initiatives and Innovations
ILAARRDEC has institutionalized practices to fast track sharing of

technologies developed by the member-agencies through the TGP. The TGP
implementation at the regional level has produced a wide array of valuable
information not only on technology-based services but also on program
management. Lessons and insights can be drawn from the TGP initiatives and
innovations that have been considered as best practices. As such they have
provided inputs in developing a working model in managing similar programs
undertaken by other consortia and organizations in the Philippines.
The lessons and insights from the TGP implemented initiatives and
innovations are grouped as follows: governance, technology management,
linkages, and multi-level recognition.

Propelling Sustainable Governance
Organizational Structure
With the integration of the FSB, FITS, IEC Services, and ICT Services
into the TGP, a Regional Technology Promotion and Commercialization Group
(RTPCG) was organized. This group is headed by the TGP Regional Coordinator
and is composed of FITS managers, information service specialists, technology
service specialists, and the Magsasaka Syentista, together with member-agency
representatives (Figure 5). The members of the group met quarterly at the FITS
centers. During regular meetings, quarterly accomplishments and experiences on
the TGP operation at the FITS level were presented. Likewise, issues and
concerns were discussed and information related to the program operations was
shared as bases in program monitoring and evaluation.
Through the years, FITS centers in the region have relatively increased.
This prompted the designation of TGP coordinators in the four provinces. The
extension directors of state universities in the region, namely: the Mariano
Marcos State University, University of Northern Philippines, Don Mariano Marcos
Memorial State University, and Pangasinan State University served as the
coordinators for Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan, respectively
with the corresponding representatives from the Offices of the Provincial
Agriculturists (OPAG) as co-coordinators. This initiative fostered better
coordination among FITS centers that consequently led to a more efficient and
effective monitoring and evaluation scheme. That same scheme provided a
venue for training personnel who are expected to manage the TGP in the future.
The involvement of other agencies, e.g. the state universities and the offices of
provincial agriculturists (OPAGs) was vital in realizing the mandate of their
extension services. The state universities had the technical expertise, while the

OPAGs had the mobility to coordinate with the LGU -based FITS centers. That
set-up served as a working model in implementing the TGP that has paved the
way for the flagship programs of the LGUs.
Framework of TGP
Prior to the establishment of the TGP framework, resolutions were

approved by RRDCC to include TGP as a modality of member-agencies in their
extension services and adopt a FITS and Magsasaka Syentista scheme. To
ensure a more efficient TGP implementation, a workshop was held for the
member-agency representatives, the provincial and municipal LGUs, and the
Department of Agrarian Reform, as well as the FITS managers. The workshop
finalized the TGP framework, which was approved by the RRDCC and the
Regional Development Council of Region 1 for its implementation (Figure 6). This
ensured better coordination in implementing the extension activities of the
member-agencies. Likewise, it reinforced the active roles of member-agencies in
implementing the project and enhanced their collaboration with the DAR and the
FITS centers. In addition, TGP activities were considered as among the
accomplishments of state universities, which have been recognized by the
Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines
(AACCUP).
Resource Generation
One of the challenges faced by the TGP implementation at the local level
was the turn-over of leadership, which may have priorities other than agriculture.
To address such, the TGP management requested the concerned Sangguniang
Bayan or Panlungsod to pass a resolution allocating annual funds that could
sustain the program operations. This scheme institutionalized the TGP at the
LGU level by having a separate fund for its sustained implementation. Further,
FITS centers were encouraged to generate funds to augment the available
resources for the same purpose.
Designation of FITS Staff and Provincial Coordinators
To ascertain that FITS staff and the provincial coordinators to

continuously and effectively perform their duties and responsibilities, their heads
issued their official designations. This enhanced the program implementation of
TGP at the LGU level because the functions of concerned staff were considered
as part of their workload. During one meeting, the FITS staff duties and
responsibilities were discussed with them before issuing them their designation.

Organization
An inter-disciplinary approach was introduced by pooling available

manpower resources being led by the ILAARRDEC, PMA, OPAGs, MS, and
farmers' associations and cooperatives. Their involvement provided better
directions considering their impact to the stakeholders, community, and the
environment. The diverse ideas, knowledge, experiences, and perspectives were
leveled off leading toward a common goal. Further, enlisting expertise of the PAO
and the MS was indeed essential. That was so, because those from PAO had
direct access to the needs of farmers and knew the real situation in the field.
Likewise, the MS and other farmers had vast experiences, knowledge, and skills
that were essentially needed in implementing the project.
Planning through Focused Group Discussion
Before any major activity was implemented, planning was done by

tapping the right persons for all the projected activities. Logistics, manpower,
ideas, experiences and strategies were considered because they ensured
smooth and successful implementation of the planned activities.
The intention was to create an impact on the lives of clients, particularly

in increasing their income and improving their quality of life. Hence, the current
thrusts and emerging priorities were well emphasized. The priorities were
integrated via planning to address heterogeneous problems in the field, thus,
creating a responsive plan to meet their needs via improved effectiveness and
cost efficiency.
The FGD served as a venue for identifying the technology needs of

partners and stakeholders in a problem- and need-based context vis--vis
current farming situation, available resources, and capabilities. Likewise,
analyzing their problems triggered their participatory engagement. This
stimulated the stakeholders to discuss and offer possible solutions to problems
based on their experiences. Similarly, the group discussion developed the
stakeholders confidence to think, express, and get involved in the discussion.
Additionally, the implementers discussed and drafted the plans and deliverables
using the bottom-up approach.
Managing S&T-based Agricultural Development
Magsasaka Syentista farms as a learning venue for students
To involve students in the program, MS farms were utilized as a venue

for students to learn while having their on-the-job training (OJT), research
studies, field visits, and laboratory experiments. This was approved by RRDCC

and was endorsed to the Board of Regents of state universities and colleges in
the region. To a large extent, this helped students in conducting their theses and
laboratory experiments, particularly those on validating technologies developed
by farmers. Moreover, students exposure to the same activities increased their
knowledge and skills in producing crops and encouraged them to venture in agri-
business.
Participatory Action Research (PAR) on Science and Technology based-farms
The PAR scheme was included in managing Science and Technology

(S & T) based-farms. From planting to harvesting, at least 30 farmers met bi-
weekly at the S&T-based farms to observe, collect, analyze, and interpret data
through small and/or big group participatory discussions. By doing such, farmers
were directly involved in implementing, gathering, and processing data related to
the S & T farms. Likewise, they personally discovered and appreciated the best
technology options that were showcased. In addition, they enhanced their
learning via their interactions with other farmers.
Training as a prerequisite to planting material acquisition
Before farmers can avail of planting materials, they went through a

production technology training first. This initiative was done so that the farmers
would efficiently utilize the planting materials and eventually adopt the
recommended technologies.
Documentation and packaging of MS developed or improved technologies
Since the beginning of TGP, several technologies developed or

improved by the Magsasaka Syentista had been documented, which were later
on packaged and published. The packaged materials include those on: guapple,
jute, off-season vegetables, organic vegetable, green garlic, and microorganism
production. All of which were invaluable in reinforcing training programs for
interested farmers.
Magsasaka Syentistas as resource persons during training and forum
Farmer-scientists were invited by government agencies and non-

government organizations to share the technologies they developed or improved,
as well as their experiences with them. Such activity reinforced technology
dissemination initiatives and enhanced learning among farmers.
Techno Gabay brochure and FITS directory
A Techno-Gabay brochure and a FITS directory were published to

increase the awareness of stakeholders about Techno Gabay, Magsasaka
Syentista, and focus commodities. These initiatives gave other consortia an idea
to publish their own brochures and directories as well.
Short Messaging System (SMS) service for client-partner
Because of the massive use of print media, several client-partners asked

information about dragon fruit production via short-messaging services (SMS).
The POT was sent via email for those netizen-partners or shared brochures via
pouch mail for those with no email account.
Dragon fruit festival
The first dragon fruit festival in the Philippines with the theme,
Pasantaken ti panagpatanor iti dragon fruit iti Kailokuan para iti panagdur-as ti
pagilian, was held to promote dragon fruit production, marketing, and processing.
Consequently, the festival attracted more tourists to visit dragon fruit farms and
buy processed products in the province.
As an offshoot of the festival, PCAARRD came up with a comprehensive

dragon fruit FIESTA magazine. Eventually, the festival prompted PCAARRD to
conceptualize Farm and Industry Encounters through the Science and
Technology Agenda (FIESTA) as part of the Techno Gabays technology
promotion in other consortia nationwide.
Furthermore, inviting the national media to document the festival

tremendously helped in promoting dragon fruit as a crop and a healthy food. In
fact, the festival was featured in GMAs Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho program, PTV
4s Mag-Agri Tayo, and ABS-CBN TV Patrol Ilocos. Stories about the festival
were likewise published in national dailies and magazines. Similarly, dragon fruit
enticed relatively high readership in the Internet after the festival. Consequently,
many prospective growers requested brochures on the dragon fruit POT and
then ordered planting materials from the province. Additionally, other interested
growers inquired through SMS.
Plant-now-pay-later scheme
Establishing a dragon fruit farm needs a considerable investment.

Planting materials alone require a fair amount of money. As a matter of fact,
many farmers wanted to engage in this venture but they had limited start-up
capital. Thus, aplant-now-pay-later scheme was considered to assist them; and
many beneficiaries availed of it. Even with their meager capital, they pursued this
venture. Consequently, areas planted with dragon cactus had immensely
expanded.

Strengthening Relationship with Stakeholders and Partner Agencies
With the healthy relationship between the stakeholders and the member-
agencies, the program was implemented successfully and achieved its objectives
smoothly.
Local Government Units, Partner Member Agencies and Farmers Associations
LGUs, the host agencies of the FITS centers and the PMA, were
supportive to the program. In fact, they allocated their financial counterpart on the
operation of the FITS centers and the Science and Technology (S & T)-based
farms. Some personnel were also assigned to man the center on the part of the
LGUs and to coordinate and facilitate activities on the part of the PMAs.
Likewise, farmers associations in the municipalities and cities cooperated in
facilitating technology promotion activities in their own locality.
KASACOOP
The KASACOOP is a potent partner in promoting and commercializing

dragon fruit. Specifically, it provided planting materials for new growers, as well
as marketed products, created and added value and sent feedback about the
applicability of the POT. Gradually, it assumed the lead role in dragon fruit
production and marketing, which was envisioned to become a privately-led
enterprise in the near future. The transformation of the association to a
cooperative has stepped-up growers enthusiasm to expand their production and
to increase investment for their venture.
Subsequently, KASACOOP members mobilized their land, equipment,

indigenous knowledge and experiences, capital, and family labor for dragon fruit
production. All of which collectively developed their innovativeness to
continuously improve available dragon fruit production technology.
Department of Education
Schools play a great role in molding and teaching the youth on desirable
values. Collaborating with schools mobilized teachers, pupils, and parents in
establishing dragon fruit production areas in school premises. Furthermore, the
project introduced the value of entrepreneurship to school children who were
encouraged to engage in future business venture. With the dragon cacti planted
in the schools as initial sources of planting materials, each pupil was encouraged
to plant at least one post in their homes, which would eventually realize the goal
of having Dragon Cactus in Every Home.

The sales were used for school improvement such as painting old
buildings, fencing the campus, and sponsoring related projects. As a result,
teachers did not require contributions from parents for school activities anymore
because the expenses for such activities were defrayed by the income generated
from dragon fruit production. Aside from the financial contribution of the project to
some school needs, it has also provided a portion of the planting materials
needed by other schools in the province. In addition, the concerned schools
became well known as favorite destinations of lakbay-aral participants not only
those coming from Ilocos Norte but from other provinces as well.
Furthermore, the school-based project led to the parents' interest in

dragon fruit production. In exchange to the planting materials for their home
gardens, they provided the wooden posts for the school project. Aside from the
healthy food for the table and additional income for the families, the project has
also inculcated among students the value of entrepreneurship, hard work,
responsibility, and self-reliance.
In 2012, the dragon fruit production had expanded to 180 schools: 148
elementary schools in 26 districts and 6 secondary schools, in addition to the 26
schools which availed of planting materials from other sources. In each school
site, 20 posts were established and maintained. The posts and compost used
were provided by the school while the planting materials were from the project.
The project was maintained through the help of Technology and Livelihood
Education (TLE) students.
The planting materials were loaned out through the plant-now-pay-later

scheme, which means that they were paid in kind. This was twice the number of
cuttings borrowed from the school. Payments could again be loaned to other
schools until all public elementary and secondary schools in Ilocos Norte will
have their dragon cactus production. To encourage the schools to participate in
the project, a search for the best performing schools was held in the province
during its dragon fruit festival. The evaluation include the following: general
appearance of the dragon fruit plantation (30%); presence of water supply (10%);
composting and utilization (20%); plant care and maintenance (20%); harvest/
production (10%); and presence of a nursery (10%).
Moreover, secondary and elementary school teachers, being the

purveyors of learning, were equipped with valuable knowledge and skills on
dragon fruit production technology and other pieces of relevant information,
which were passed on to their students or the next generation growers. Among
the training programs conducted were participated in by Edukasyong
Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP) district coordinators, TLE teachers of
secondary schools and Alternative Learning System (ALS) teachers of the
Department of Education - Division of Ilocos Norte and Laoag City. The training

17
programs and workshops focused on dragon fruit and its benefits, production and
value-adding technologies, values formation, and K-to-12 curriculum integration.
Rural Organizations
Initially, 320 dragon cactus cuttings for 80 posts were provided to the
Palayamanan 4H club in Barangay Catuguing, San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte. The
cuttings were planted along the barangay road. This is also an effort to train the
youth who are expected to become the next generation growers and agri-
business entrepreneurs. From 80 posts in August 2009, there are now 500 posts
with dragon cactus established along the barangay road aside from those set up
in vacant lots and home gardens in the barangay.
The organization has served as a show window in the barangay and has
become the initial source of planting materials for members. These dragon cacti
have been an attraction to passersby and field-trip participants. The project has
been instrumental for the barangays consistent recognition as the cleanest and
greenest barangay in the municipality; as well as the organizations accolade as
the 4H club National Gawad Saka Award for rural youth organization in 2010, the
Regional Gawad Saka young farmer awardees, and the three-year Hall of Fame
LGU-NGO Partnership awardee in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte.
The dragon cactus cuttings were sold to walk-in visitors and field trip
participants from the different municipalities of Region I, National Capital Region,
Cordillera Autonomous Region, and Region 2. The youth group had contracted
with entrepreneurs on the establishment of dragon fruit farms by providing
planting materials, wooden posts, and labor. All these greatly contributed to the
expansion of the areas planted to dragon fruit in the province.
As a result, Barangays Madiladig and Navotas of Laoag City adopted the

planting of dragon cactus along their barangay roads. Similarly, the dragon fruit
production project of Madiladig Rural Improvement Club (RIC) had expanded to
the home gardens of RIC members. Other organizations followed this move of
the 4H Club in promoting the planting of dragon cacti in their respective
barangays.
Department of Agrarian Reform- KALAHI
Another initiative of the TGP was its collaboration with the DAR-KALAHI
projects. The first KALAHI-FITS center in the Philippines was established in
Vigan City, Ilocos Sur; then it was followed by those in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte
and in Salcedo, Ilocos Sur. The operation of these FITS centers was managed
by DAR and was primarily financed by the KALAHI project funds. This was part

of the TGP resource generation, which became a working model in the TGP
operation in partnership with DAR.
Palayamanan
A related-convergence initiative of the TGP was forged with the

Palayamanan project of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice). The
FITS served as the learning center and the Palayamanan was the learning field.
As an advocacy, municipalities with FITS centers were encouraged to put up
Palayamanan sites. A memorandum of understanding for the FITS center
establishment in Palayamanan sites was signed by ILARRDEC-RRDCC chair,
PhilRice executive director, and the president of the association of chairs of
Sangguniang Bayan Committees of Agriculture. This convergence was meant for
resource sharing and complementation, as well as for efficient implementation of
the different PhilRice projects within the consortium.
Bio-Intensive Gardening Project
In support to the Strengthening and promotion of organic agriculture in

Region 1 and its predecessor project dubbed as Vegetable in every home, a
Bio-Intensive Gardening project was implemented. Its operations were jointly
managed by various agencies in the region, namely: ILARRDEC, National
Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Social Welfare and
Development (DSWD), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Health
(DOH), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR), local government units, Nutrition Council of the Philippines
(NCP), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and universities and
colleges in the region. Meanwhile, the FITS centers and Magsasaka Syentista
provided the needed technical support. This has become a model in
implementing projects in the region via convergence of and collaboration with
various agencies.
Embracing Multi-Level Recognition
The search for Best FITS centers and Outstanding MS and PMA was
implemented from 2009-2012. This initiative recognized the efforts of deserving
partners in the TGP implementation and encouraged them to sustain their
contributions. Moreover, this served as a venue for monitoring and evaluating
program implementation at the FITS level.
Awards Received
In 2008, Mr. Maximo Rabanal, an MS for biogas digester, was awarded

as the Most Outstanding MS. The following year, he was recognized as a

19
National Gawad Saka awardee of the Department of Agriculture and as an
Outstanding Agrarian Reform beneficiary.
Similarly, Ms. Edita Dacuycuy has earned various national, as well as

international recognitions because of her successful dragon fruit venture. She
was awarded the National and Regional Gawad Saka for High Value Commercial
Crops in 2010, Outstanding Rural Woman in 2010, and one of the Most
Outstanding MS in the Philippines in 2011. She was also recognized as one of
the Female Innovation Leaders by the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation and
was recognized during the APEC Women & the Economy Summit 2011 held in
Los Angeles, California.
Additionally, the Catuguing Palayamanan 4H-Club received a national

recognition as National Gawad Saka for rural youth club, while LGU San Nicolas
became a regional Hall of Famer on LGU-NGO partnership. Other youth growers
also earned regional recognition for Gawad Saka-Award, among them is Mr.
Presidio Tabios. Likewise, MS Nestor Acosta and MS Eliseo Pera were also multi
-awardees for regional Gawad Saka.
CONCLUSION
The presence of FITS centers in the locality has strengthened

technology promotion and extension services of the LGUs where farmers could
directly access agricultural technologies. This program has also developed
outstanding farmers as MS by becoming partners in technology development and
promotion. More importantly, they have been empowered to do their own R & D
activities in their farm. This scheme has been effective because farmers can
directly identify problems emerging from technology utilization and solve such via
innovations suitable to the local condition. In addition, they can share their own
experiences and indigenous knowledge to other farmers.
Through the years, the TGP has evolved from its original concept to
respond to the emerging needs of the time. With continuous improvement and
innovation, initiatives have been conceptualized, which have eventually propelled
and synergized program management. All of which have collectively contributed
to the success in meeting the ILARRDEC goals and have spontaneously earned
its reputation as one of the top performing consortia in the country.

REFERENCES
BURGOS, BM, ARGANOSA, AS, ABELLA TA and LG. BAYABOS, (2011). The
Techno Gabay Program: History, Milestone and Direction. In. The Farm
Level Impact of the Techno Gabay Program: Assessment, Evidences
and Implications. A.A. Aquino, E. O. Brown and D. C. Cardenas (eds).
PCARRD, Los Banos, Laguna, Philippines.
ILARRDEC. (2012). Enhancing Farmers Information and technology Services

Narrative Report in 2006 to 2012. Ilocos Agriculture and Resources
Research and Development Consortium, MMSU, City of Batac, Ilocos
Norte, Philippines
PASCUA, LT. (2003). Rang-ay Ti Pagilian: a Techno Gabay Program in the

Ilocos. Paper presented during the Major Island Techno Gabay
Convention. Hotel Supreme, Baguio City. Sept 30 to Oct 3, 2003.
(2008). Initiatives in managing the Techno Gabay Program in the Ilocos.
PHILARM Journal. 5(1): 107-120.
______________ (2008). Initiatives in managing the Techno Gabay Program in

the Ilocos. PHILARM Journal 5(1):107-120.
PASCUA, LT, et al. (2010). Innovations and Initiatives on R&D for S&T
Productivity and Sustainable Development of Dragon Fruit. PHILARM
Journal. 8(1): 145-160.
________________(2013). RDE Management on Dragon Fruit and Its

Implication to Social Responsibility: The Project SANIATA Experience.
________________ (2013). Technology Promotion on Dragon Fruit and Its

Implication to Economic and Social Responsibility: Partnership with the
Department of Education and the Community. Paper presented during
the 23th PhilARM Convention, April 16-18, 2013. Naga City.
_________________(2013). Bringing Science to the People: The Project Saniata

Experience. Paper presented during the 33rd Annual Philippine
American Association of Scientists and Engineers Meeting and
Symposium January 30-February 01, 2013 Plaza del Norte Laoag City,
Ilocos Norte, Philippines.

Establishment of Science
and Technology
Based-Farms:
A Vehicle For Technology
Management and Promotion
Leonardo T. Pascua, Love Grace dC. Campano,
Mary Anne R. Rarogal, Cheryll C. de la Cruz
and Richard F. Guinsatao
Introduction
One of the constraints of farm productivity is the inability of farmers to
analyze the gaps associated with production systems and to consider science-
based solutions that can enhance farm productivity. Farmers simply adopt
available technologies that fit their own knowledge, skills, attitude, existing
manpower, and resources which can result in the non-maximization of farmers
income. In many cases, farmers are offered a recipe-type package of
technology for them to strictly follow. However, this concept fails to acknowledge
the solutions of specific problems in a localized situation and some of the
components of the package of technology may not appropriate to the area.
Further, this does not consider to study the system within the supply
management chain. Thus, innovations should be made to enhance farm
productivity.
In a top-down Research Development and Extension (RDE), actors in

the chain have specific roles. Researchers and those from the academe
generate, innovate, and promote technologies; agricultural extension workers
disseminate the same while farmers adopt them. However, in shifting into the
bottom-up RDE, this could entail drastic changes on the roles of researchers,
extension workers and farmers. This bottom-up approach is a location-specific
research cum extension that deals with improved farming system technologies
for specific micro agro-climatic environment. This starts with an inception meeting
where the implementers themselves identify and discuss the gaps of the existing
production system; propose and determine specific science-based technology
interventions that could possibly increase the productivity and profitability of their
farming system. Implementers can share effectively technology options, which
have been very vital in crafting S & T interventions. By using this approach in
technology management and promotion, science and technology based-farms
(STBF) of Magsasaka Syentista can validate, showcase, and promote S&T

interventions or technologies on commodities or products and analyze the supply
management chain.
Generally, the S&T-based farms showcase science-based interventions

or technologies on specific commodities/products via the FITS centers and
promote their use to at least 30 farmers/entrepreneurs in a locality.
In the case of MMSU, modifications were made to: a) develop a

chemical-free production technology; b) decrease the production cost by
producing organic fertilizer; and c) document the best practices for dragon fruit,
sugarcane, vegetables, tomato, and bamboo production.
What are Science and Technology-Based Farms?
STBFs are Magsasaka Siyentista farms or enterprises that highlight the

effectiveness of S&T in improving the productivity and income of farmers. The
farms or enterprises highlight S&T-based livelihood and business opportunities
for particular focus commodity/product in a community. This is viewed as a
generic term that goes beyond production, which include processing, marketing,
and other requirements based on the supply chain analysis. As such, STBF is
part of the process of developing an investment package.
Establishing STBF is the process of improving a particular farm or

enterprise utilizing appropriate S&T interventions that address specific gaps, thus
enhancing farm productivity and income. The S&T intervention is the mechanism
that intends to address the gap in the Magsasaka Syentista farm or enterprise
using the following supply chain analysis; documentation of the practices and
inventory of available relevant S&T products and services.
Why the Magsasaka Syentista?
Identification of the right people is very critical in technology

management and promotion. Commodity champions such as Magsasaka
Syentista play a vital role in the conduct of the STBF and serve as role models
and become inspirations to other farmers that can translate into effective
technology promotion. They advocate directly and actively for a cause and their
message can be effectively heard by their fellow farmers, resulting in massive
dissemination and greater impact.
By using the farms of Magsasaka Syentista, the STBF also effectively

serves as a show-window of introduced technology and a learning venue for
farmers in the locality during cross-visits and training programs. This approach
ensures the sustainability of technology transfer and promotion activities.

How is the process initiated?
The establishment and implementation of the STBF is guided by the

framework detailed in Figure 1.
Through the STBF, specific gaps of the MS practices are identified and
addressed. The supply chain analysis (SCA) is used in identifying the gaps and
areas of intervention and in analyzing the entire set of production, distribution,
and marketing processes by which a customer is supplied with a desired product.
For each of the major supply chain points, the distinct intention to satisfy
customers needs, inputs, operations, and processes, as well as the major actors
and support services providers are analyzed. Establishing the STBF entails the
introduction of appropriate S&T interventions derived from the R&D outputs of
various institutions. The requirement of the proposed S&T intervention is a
simple financial analysis that would convince the stakeholders of its financial
viability. A portion of the farm or enterprise of the MS is utilized for the S&T
interventions to address the gaps in the MS farm or the enterprise identified
using the supply chain analysis, documentation of the MS practices and the
inventory of available relevant S&T products and services.
What is expected from the STBF?
The conduct of STBF plays a vital role in ensuring that the technology
and benefits reach the clients. The outputs or outcomes of utilizing S&T
interventions can improve farm productivity and profitability of the Magsasaka
Syentista and farmer-adopters, as well as the community. The R&D management
practices and the technologies suitable to a specific project as well as their
contributions and project implementation issues and concerns are identified. The
experiences gained and lessons learned can become guides in successfully
implementing future projects.

25
REFERENCES
PASCUA, L.T., CRUZ, L. T., CALAMAAN, F. G., PARBO, P. S., PARAOAN, I.

R., PARAOAN, L. C., ACANTILADO, M. G., CASTILLO, M. A. L. and
RINEN, E. C. (2007). The case of panag-uummong: An approach in
participatory technology promotion and extension in cotton production.
PHILARM Journal. 4 (1): 1-14.
PASCUA, LT, RAPOSAS, LM, DACUYCUY, EA, ADALEM, IG, PASCUA, MDP,
SABAS, AR, SAOIT, RB, CRUZ, WC DE LA, PARAOAN, LC, ALIMBU-
YUGUEN, MM, GANO, FMR, GABRIEL, ML, CAMPANO, LGC, RARO-
GAL, MAR, NICOLAS, SB, MALAB, SC, PASCUA, ME, LAGMAY, NB
and SADUMIANO, AS. (2010). Innovations and Initiatives on R&D for
S&T Productivity and Sustainable Development of Dragon Fruit.
PASCUA, LT, PARAOAN, LC, RAPOSAS, LM, ADALEM, IG, PASCUA, MDP,
SAOIT, RB, CAMPANO, LGC, GABRIEL, ML, ALIMBUYUGUEN, MM,
and GANO, FMR. (2013). RDE Management on Dragon Fruit and Its
PCARRD. (2006). Techno Gabay Program: Guidelines for the establishment

and management of S&T-based farms.

R&D Management on the Utilization
and Adoption of S&T Interventions:
The Case of Vegetable Production
Marivic M. Alimbuyuguen, Segundo S. Dutdut, Mercy R. Gano,
Nestor C. Acosta, Norberto A. Padron,
Arsenia P. Tabay, and Celestina P. Rivera
INTRODUCTION
As a tropical country, the Philippines is suitable for growing lowland

vegetables. In fact, vegetable production is one of the most viable industries in
most places like the Ilocos region.
In Ilocos Norte, the area harvested (ha) and production (mt) of

vegetables such as ampalaya, tomato, squash, and patola indicate the potentials
of these crops in the province. As of 2013, 1,675.74 mt of ampalaya was
harvested from a 173.85 ha area; from 1,075.35 ha and 22.399.63 mt of tomato;
from 105.95 ha 1,455.99 mt of squash; and from 85.20 ha 878.60 mt of patola.
Nevertheless, vegetable production in the Philippines is highly seasonal

due to the response to temperature, rainfall, and the frequency and intensity of
typhoons. Vegetable prices are generally lowest from March to May and highest
from September to December. Vegetable consumption in the Philippines is
currently estimated at only 39 kg per capita, far below the 146-182 kg per capita
recommended by the WHO/FAO (Batt, et,al, 2007). Hence, there is a high
demand for vegetables.
While most Filipinos used vegetables as a relatively small part of a meat

or fish dish and very seldom as meals in themselves before, Digal (2007)
reported that vegetable consumption in the Philippines has steadily increased
over time. The increase in vegetable consumption is due to the growing
population particularly in the urban areas and the expanding demand for healthy
foods. Disaggregating population into urban and rural, using the FNRI estimate of
per capita vegetable consumption, reveals that urban consumption of vegetables
from 1980 to 2003 is estimated to be increasing at 4.42% compared to only 0.2%
in the rural areas (Digal, 2007). The increasing incomes of Filipinos have also
contributed to the increase in demand particularly for high quality and processed
vegetables.

In terms of marketing practices, majority of fresh vegetables in the
Philippines (75-85%) are sold through the traditional marketing system, where
farmers sell their produce on the spot to traders, consolidators, vegetable
processors, and wholesalers in the wet market. As personal disposable income
rises, greater quantities of fresh vegetables are sold through modern retail
markets and the institutional food market (Batt, et al, 2007). A survey done by
Concepcion and Digal (2004), cited in Digal (2007), showed that the area
devoted by supermarkets for fresh vegetables has increased over time. Data
also indicated grocery sales, which include food in modern distribution outlets
such as supermarkets, increased by 22% from 2005 to 2006. In addition, fast
food outlets and other institutional markets such as hotels have responded to this
opportunity by increasing the demand for high quality vegetables and healthy
foods.
While there is a great potential for vegetable production in the

countryside, there are also ensuing problems of the industry. For instance, the
development of modern technologies and innovative schemes has turned
farming input-intensive. The use of high-input hybrid crop varieties and chemical
fertilizers to increase production has become imperative. As such, synthetic
pesticides are recommended to reduce yield losses due to pests and diseases.
These approaches to crop production have increased vegetable yields. However,
these have negative effects on the environment and human health.
Major problems experienced by farmers in the region include high

production cost due to the expensive chemical inputs, labor, and transportation.
Oftentimes, farmers have intensified cash-crop production by applying greater
amounts of inorganic fertilizers and pesticides. In Ilocos Norte, large amounts of
inorganic fertilizer were usually applied in sweet pepper, garlic, and tomato
production. Likewise, some farmers used combinations of organic and inorganic
inputs, which led to yields higher than those, which used traditional farming
practices. Meanwhile, only few farmers used biological fertilizers and pest control
materials. The excessive use of inorganic chemicals and fertilizers had worsened
the quality of harvested crops [Alimbuyuguen, et al (2011) cited in Aquino, et al
(2011)].
At present, using organic inputs in crop production is becoming a global

and national trend. This has been ushered in by the increasing cost of production
is using conventional inorganic means, the development of organically-based
technologies, and the growing demand for organic products like fresh vegetables.
Organically-grown products command higher price than the non-organic products
(Terminal Report, 2008).
Thus, with the increasing demand for naturally-grown vegetables,

increasing health consciousness of the consumer, and advocating for sustainable

crop production, vegetable growers should then address these requirements. As
such, the Science and Technology-based Farm (STBF) in Vegetables Production
was implemented in the farm of Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) Nestor Acosta in
Bacarra, Ilocos Norte.
Scope of the Project
Duration of the project. The STBF on Vegetables Production was

conducted in three cycles, from crop year September 2007 to December 2008.
Specifically, the first cycle ran from September to November 2007; the second
cycle, from May to July, 2008; and the third cycle, from October to December
2008.
Limitations of the project. Four vegetables were grown in the STBF
namely: squash or kalabasa (Cucurbita maxima), bitter gourd or ampalaya
(Momordica charantia L.), tomato or kamatis (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill), and
ridged gourd or patola (Luffa acutangula).
In squash production, while the MS was able to complete the three

cropping cycles, significant deviations from the interventions were observed. In
the MS practice, Berelex was applied to stimulate crop growth. While barrier crop
was planted in all the three cycles, marigold was only planted in the first cycle as
a repellent crop because seedling sources were limited during the second and
third cycles.
In the case of bitter gourd production, the MS successfully completed the

three cycles except that repellent and barrier crops were not planted around the
enhanced practice.
Meanwhile, the MS implemented the three cycles in tomato production.

However, the second cycle failed as the tomatoes were heavily attacked by virus.
As such, there was a shift from MMSU Hybrid 2 to Diamante during the third
cycle. Instead of corn, pigeon pea was planted as the barrier crop for tomato
production. Like in tomato production, only the first and third cycles were
completed in patola production. The interventions were also followed by the MS
for both the enhanced and MS practices.
Significance of the project. With the growing demand for naturally-

grown vegetables in local and foreign markets, and the increasing awareness
and concern on the consumption of safe, chemically-free, healthy, and nutritious
food, producing quality vegetables is needed. Thus, the establishment of the
STBF on vegetable farm was not only meant to showcase the profitability of
growing vegetables but to highlight the application of environmentally-sound and
socially-justified agricultural systems as well. The scheme provided the

31
prospective adopters such as farmers, entrepreneurs, and other clients the
opportunity to adopt appropriate technologies for vegetable production that
improve the efficiency and sustainability of vegetable farming and enhance
access to high quality and safe vegetables in the market.
The findings of the STBF on Vegetable Production would be essential to

vegetable growers, not only in the province but in the region, as well.
Specifically, the S&T interventions in the enhanced practice of 30 vegetable
grower adopters would facilitate dissemination of the S&T interventions, thus,
ensuring the sustained production of safe and healthy food for the populace.
Likewise, the STBF results would be used by technical experts and

agriculturists as additional research inputs that would eventually be shared to
client-partners.
Additionally, the STBF findings would serve as bases in enhancing the

existing policies and in creating new guidelines to strengthen the Philippine
Organic Law implementation. This is particularly true in addressing problems
related to accrediting producers of naturally-grown crops, as well as marketing
issues and concerns on organically-grown commodities.
METHODOLOGY
Project site. The STBF on Vegetable Production was established in MS

Nestor Acosta farm in Barangay Buyon, Bacarra, Ilocos Norte. Barangay Buyon
is one of the 25 rural areas in the municipality.
Bacarra is situated at the northwestern part of Ilocos Norte. It is bounded
on the north by the municipality of Pasuquin; east by Vintar; west by the South
China Sea; and south by Laoag City. It is 495 km from Manila; 280 km from San
Fernando City, La Union; and 8 km north of Laoag City. (http://
www.ilocandiarealtor.com/informant.May , 2013).
The municipality has a land area of 6,550.50 ha and a population of

32,266 who reside in 7,590 households (MPDO, 2010, cited in http://inorte.org/?
page_id=429, May, 2013).The major portion of Bacarras land area is cultivated
and planted with various agricultural crops the whole year round. The eastern
part of the town consists of rolling terrain, while the western side has narrow
strips of flat land. The central part is basically similar to the western part, which
gradually rises up to the eastern boundary with moderate elevation of 50 to 150
feet above sea level. Low hills, with fine timbers, run northward on the eastern
side of Bacarra. The eastern part of the municipality has clay loam soil, while the
western side is generally sandy (http://www.ilocandiarealtor.com/informant.May,
2013).

Agriculture is the main industry of the Bacarreos. Farmers grow rice,
tobacco, corn, garlic, onion, mongo bean, sugarcane, cotton, and vegetables.
Fishing is the second major industry of the people. Both its sea and river teem
with fish, which include the legendary bac-bacarra, from which the towns name
was derived. They also engage in furniture making and weaving (http://
inorte.org/?page_id=429,May, 2013).
The Bacarreos, like other Ilocanos, are adventurous, industrious, and

incessantly in their quest for greener pastures. Long before the great rush of
Filipinos to foreign lands, there were already thousands of them residing and
working overseas, particularly in the US mainland. Their remittances strongly
boost the economy of the town.
Specifically, the STBF was established in a 1,000 m2sq meter area (500
m2 each for the MS practice and enhanced practice) in Barangay Buyon, which is
leased by the MS family where fruit trees, especially mango intercropped with
vegetables, are grown. The 4-ha farm was formerly a wasteland, but with the
resourcefulness, diligence, and perseverance of the MS, as well as the support
of various government and private organizations, the area has been turned into a
productive farm.
Data gathering procedure. To answer the first objective of the study,

the qualitative approach was used. According to Garcia, et al (2011), the
qualitative approach involves the collection of extensive narrative data in order to
gain insights into a phenomenon of interest. Observation and documentation
were extensively done in data collection via systematic viewing and recording the
various stakeholders behavior and activities in implementing the project.
Participant observation was likewise done, as researchers played significant
roles in the STBF implementation (Ballantine, 2011).
Meanwhile, the quantitative approach was used to answer the second

objective. This involved the collection of numerical data in order to explain,
predict /or control a phenomenon of interest (Garcia, 2011).
Data processing and analysis. Under the first objective, data coding,
and verbal analysis were employed (Garcia, 2011). Moreover, observation and
documentation were done to pinpoint the contributions of, as well as the issues
and concerns on the R&D management practices during the STBF
implementation. These include the local teams experiences in resource-sharing,
partnership-building, technology promotion, organizational dynamics, and
problem solving dynamics that facilitated the utilization and adoption of the S&T
interventions in vegetable production.

33
For the second objective, production yield and income were the major
variables involved. A comparison of these variables under the enhanced and the
MS practices were done. Specifically, partial budget analysis (PBA) was used to
assess the economic viability of the interventions/component technologies
applied in the enhanced practice vis-a-vis the MS practice. The PBA assessed
the effects of changing the production method, or of substituting an activity for
another (PCARRD, 2008). The PBA involved the following steps:
1. Description of the S&T based interventions/component technologies.

The interventions included component technologies in fertilizer
application and pest management. Twenty bags of carbonized rice hull
(CRH), Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ), and Fermented Fruit Juice (FFJ)
were applied at weekly interval after transplanting (WIT); and tea
manure was also used at 30-45-60 days after transplanting (DAT).
Likewise, barrier crops such as corn and pigeon pea; and repellent
crops such as marigold were established.
2. Listing and quantification of the gains and losses resulting in the

application of the interventions/technology components. Losses were
classified into: 1) added costs (A); 2) income reduced/forgone (B). On
the other hand, gains were classified into: 1) costs saved/reduced
farming practice (C); and 2) added income received from the
intervention (D).
3. Computation of the change in farm profit (total gains minus total losses).
This was done by adding costs saved/reduced and income (A+B) and
by adding costs and income reduced (C+D). Then, C+D was deducted
from A+ B to determine the farm profit. If total gains are greater than
the total losses, then the intervention was considered profitable;
otherwise, the intervention was not profitable.
4. Identification of the non-pecuniary or non-monetary factors that

influenced the decision on whether or not the intervention/component
technologies could be implemented. PBA done was applied in all the
three cycles of the STBF for Vegetables Production. Table 1 presents
the summary of the methodological techniques.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This section has two parts: the first discusses the R&D management
practices that facilitated S&T interventions utilization and adoption in organic-
based vegetables production and the second articulates the effects of utilizing
S&T interventions in vegetable production.

Table1. Summary of techniques used in the STBF Organic-Based Vegetable Production as imple-
mented by the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU).
OBJECTIVE VARIABLE APPROACH DATA COLLEC- DATA SOURCE DATA

TION ANAL
YSIS
PROCEDURE
To explore the potentials of the R&D Management Prac- Qualitative Observation STBF Local Team Verbal
R&D management practices tices (Participant Obser- analy-
that maximize the S&T inter- vation) MS sis
ventions in organic-based Organizational dynamics
vegetable production
Focal Person
Resource-sharing
Documentation FITS Manager
Partnership-building
ISS
Technology promotion
TSS
Problem-solving dynam-
ics
To determine the effects of util- Yield (MS and enhanced Quantitative Analysis of farm MS Farm Record Partial
izing S&T interventions in practices) record Budge
organic-based vegetable t
production Income from the MS and Analy-
the enhanced prac- sis
tices

35
I. R&D Management Practices: Contributions, Issues, and Concerns that
Facilitated Utilization and Adoption on S&T Interventions in Vegetables
Production
A. Organizational Dynamics
Organizational dynamics refers to the management practices involved in

the selection of the local team, selection and evaluation of the MS, and
mobilization of the local team in the STBF implementation.
Selection of the local team. In selecting the local team, the Partner
Member Agency (PMA) mobilized experts of MMSU, other than the extension
directorate staff. In fact, a faculty expert on vegetable production from the
College of Agriculture, Food and Sustainable Development (CAFSD) served as
the STBF technical expert.
For both the host Farmers Information and Technology Services (FITS)
and PMA, the addition of other local team members means sharing the
responsibility to others who can help implement the project. Since the Information
Services Specialist (ISS) and Technology Services Specialist (TSS) were part of
the Techno Gabay Program (TGP) Management Team in the FITS Centers, they
assisted and helped the FITS Center Manager in the STBF, and they also
represented the FITS Manager in the STBF activities. It was observed that the
ISS and TSS were more directly in contact with the MS than with the FITS
Manager. That was so because the FITS Manager was also the Municipal
Agriculturist or the Municipal Agriculture Officer. As such, the ISS and TSS had
more time to conduct field monitoring than that of the manager.
For the PMA counterpart, a focal person specifically for the STBF under
the supervision of the Extension Directorate was also assigned. In the absence
of the Extension Director, the focal person substituted her in the local team.
Table 2 presents the STBF composition of the vegetable production local team.
Selection and evaluation of the MS. Prior to the STBF establishment,

the MS was selected and screened based on the PCARRD criteria. In
implementing the STBF, the MS was further evaluated in terms of his
commitment and understanding of the STBF principles.
MS Nestor Acosta was appointed by the RRDCC of ILARRDEC in 2002.

But even prior to his appointment as an MS, organic farming technologies have
long been practiced by the MS. He used chicken manure and carbonized rice
hull for his crops, which he found effective in increasing his farm production not
only for rice but also for vegetables.

Table 2. Composition of the STBF in vegetable production
STAFF POSITION
MMSU
Marivic M. Alimbuyuguen PMA-Focal Person
Mercy Fausta R. Gano STBF Focal Person
Segundo S. Dutdut Technical Expert
FITS
Norberto Padron Manager
Arsenia Tabay Technology Services Specialist
Celestina Rivera Information Services Specialist
Nestor Acosta Magsasaka Siyentista
Additionally, the MS practiced Integrated Pest Management, particularly

by using synchronous planting in his rice field. Likewise, by using chicken
manure, he minimized the attack of golden kuhol and by hanging insect traps in
his mango trees, and other areas has controlled insect attack.
As an MS, Mr. Acosta has been a model to his fellow farmers. He was a
five-time Regional Gawad Saka Awardee on High Value Crops and Integrated
Farming. Moreover, he has been a consistent top mango producer of Ilocos
Norte, being adjudged as Outstanding Mango Exporter in 1998. This gave him
the chance to travel to Hongkong to enrich his knowledge and enhance his skills
in mango production for free.
Indeed, sharing is a virtue ingrained in the MS. He has unselfishly

shared his knowledge and expertise to everyone. Recently, he has assisted the
development of a 1-ha farm in Brgy. Balatong, Laoag City. With the assistance
of the City Agriculture Office (CAO) in Laoag, the area has been planted to
various off-season vegetables. That has caught Mr. Dominador Guerreros
attention, a farmer living in the same place, who sought the MSs assistance. In
1997, the area of Mr. Guerrero was developed and was later on adjudged as
Outstanding High Value Crops (HVC) farmer by the CAO.
MS Acostas leadership is a virtue that makes him a model to others. He

has been actively involved in all mini-agro industrial trade fairs during the annual
Bacarra Town Fiesta and Farmers Festival. Additionally, he was once the
president of the Barangay Agriculture and Fishery Council (BAFC), which
spearheaded the animal dispersal project in their community and vice president
of the Pagrang-ayan Farmers Association.

Mobilization of the local team. The faculty or technical expert, Prof.
Dutdut, was designated by the University President, and RRDCC chair and the
ILARRDEC director. The FITS Center staff received their designation from Hon.
Pacifico Velasco, the Mayor of the host municipality. A focal person from the
extension directorate, who served as the counterpart of the faculty-expert and the
FITS Center was designated by the extension director. Designations were also
given to the FITS staff who directly assist the MS from the OPAG-FITS Center.
Time and commitment were two important resources that propelled

successful project implementation. The technical experts inability to regularly
participate in project monitoring and in some farming activities was usually due to
academe responsibilities. While the expert was given a designation, and was
well oriented on his roles in the project, he had to prioritize his teaching
assignment. Thus, his extension or research responsibilities were often
sacrificed.
B. Partnership-Building
The STBF is a project of partnership. As partners, the various

stakeholders are expected to perform their roles in project implementation; as
such they enjoy equity not necessarily equality. What counts then is what they
can give best for the project in whatever form, regardless of their status.
As an R&D management practice, partnership-building was documented

in several situations in the STBF implementation. This includes the local team
and FITS center management staff meetings, as well as MOA signing.
Meeting of the local team. The first meeting of the local team was
initiated by ILARRDEC. The team met to identify, orient, and finalize the
responsibilities of the local team. The meeting paved the way for a forum
wherein participants raised their concerns in the project implementation.
Likewise, issues were addressed during the meeting.
The terms of reference (TOR) provided by PCARRD (2007) was

followed. Accordingly, the local team in coordination with the Regional Techno-
Gabay coordinators: 1) prepared and packaged the proposal for the
establishment of S&T-based farm, analyzed the MS practices, identified the gaps
in the MS farms that need to be addressed in the proposal, identified the S&T or
other interventions to address the gaps, developed POT or basket of options/
component technologies, including cost and returns analysis; 2) implemented
the S&T-based farm project based on the work plan indicated in the approved
proposal; 3) provided the MS with information and technology services on
interventions introduced in the S&T-based farm including other technical
assistance required from time to time; 4) conducted relevant training programs

for the MS and the prospective farmers; and 5) prepared and submitted
technical and financial reports.
In short, the MS was the direct implementer of the S&T interventions.

The FITS center staff, who was usually the ISS and TSS, directly supervised
the MS, more specifically on the S&T interventions compliance as stipulated in
the approved proposal. On the other hand, the technical expert guided the MS
in applying the specific S&T interventions. Meanwhile, the PMA focal person
served as the lead of the local team with the assistance of the STBF focal
person.
After internalizing their roles and harnessing their commitment, the
local team member set themselves to work. Another meeting was set to
deliberate on the STBF proposal.
Meeting with the FITS management staff. As part of the monitoring

scheme, the PMA conducted a quarterly meeting with FITS management staff,
which was attended by all FITS centers under the supervision of the PMA.
Aside from the concerns on the TGP as a whole, the agenda included the STBF
implementation. During the meetings, different issues and concerns were
raised by the various stakeholders of the STBF implementation and the TGP as
a whole. With this strategy, the FITS staff provided additional inputs on how to
improve and enhance project implementation.
MOA signing. As a requirement in implementing the STBF, a

Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was forged between and among various
stakeholders to formalize all key partners involvement. These included the
funding agency, PCAARRD-ILARRDEC, LGU-Bacarra, Ilocos Norte, and
MMSU. Building or creating a sense of responsibility through the MOA
motivated all the stakeholders to deliver their best in project implementation.
Collectively, formal arrangement secured the bond of cooperation between and
among stakeholders.
C. Resource-Sharing
Resource sharing or counter-parting refers to a management practice

where the various stakeholders contribute and commit their resources, either
material or non-material, in the program/project implementation. Resource
sharing eliminates the dole-out mentality in project implementation and
strengthens the stakeholders commitment. With this strategy, partners feel that
they are part of the success and or failure of the project (Alimbuyuguen, et, al,
2010).

39
Sharing of resources among various stakeholders. The availability of
financial resources has oftentimes indicated program success. Since DOST-
PCARRD, provided financial resources, funding for the project was never a
constraint. However, the implementers and the beneficiaries could have shelled
out their own resources to ensure the project sustainability.
Resource sharing was evident among the stakeholders in implementing

the STBF on Vegetable Production. The MOA was forged among the concerned
DOST-PCARRD, MMSU, LGU-Bacarra, Ilocos Norte, and MS (Table 3).
Resource sharing and complementation could ensure project

sustainability. With the counterpart of the MS, he claimed ownership of the
project. Inasmuch as the MS shared his land and labor, he too was accountable
and responsible for the STBF.
Although there was a budget appropriated for the project, this was not
spared from the problems usually brought forth by the bureaucratic procedures in
accessing the funds. The too rigid procedures delayed the procurement of
needed equipment and farm supplies. It should be noted that farming activities
were somehow constrained by changes in the agro-climatic conditions and
environmental factors that were beyond the farmers and project implementers
control.
D. Problem-Solving Dynamics
While problems are management threats, they are also challenges and
opportunities for enhancing and improving project implementation. In the STBF,
the inception meeting and the monitoring activities, both regular and emergency,
served as venues for problem solving.
Inception meeting. After the first meeting initiated by ILARRDEC-
PCARRD, and prior to the submission of the proposal, an inception meeting was
Table 3. Resource counterparts of the STBF implementers.

IMPLEMENTER/ RESOURCE COUNTERPART
STAKEHOLDER
DOST-PCARRD Financial fund grant
MMSU Technical experts, manpower, and other
resources.
LGU-Bacarra, IN FITS center staff (FITS manager, TSS, and
ISS) and other resources.
MS Nestor Acosta Land and labor for the STBF and material
support for the FITS Center.

conducted to finalize the different S&T interventions in the STBF. The activity
was attended by the local team and the TGP regional coordinator.
During the inception meeting, MS Acostas existing practices, proposed

technology interventions, project financial viability, work and financial plan, and
other important activities on the STBF establishment and implementation were
deliberated upon.
Table 4 presents the MS practices and were the S&T interventions for
the enhanced practice in the STBF project which upon agreed and finalized
during the inception meeting.
Planned/Programmed monitoring activities. A regular monthly

monitoring was scheduled and conducted by the local team. This ensured that
the MS and the local team were in the right track and the different S&T
interventions were properly implemented as agreed upon. Likewise, this served
as a venue where problems encountered in the project implementation were
identified and addressed. STBF monitoring results were prepared by the PMA
and submitted to ILARRDEC. Then, they were presented to the project staff
involved to figure out their strengths and limitations.
While regular monitoring is scheduled, there were instances that the local
team was not able to participate as planned due to other work priorities. Thus,
rescheduling of monitoring activities was usually an option.
Additionally, these were the times when the MS, presumably because of
curiosity, tried what he had heard and seen and applied an intervention in the
STBF, specifically Berelex, which was not a component technology agreed upon
by the local team.
Unplanned/non-programmed monitoring. Aside from the regular

monitoring of activities, surprise visits and emergency monitoring were also
conducted. Unscheduled monitoring was done to assess how far the MS had
maintained his farm. This provided the PMA with information on the MSs
commitment to the project. On the other hand, emergency monitoring were done
when the MS referred problems to the technical expert, which needed immediate
solution or action. Examples of which included those that emerged during pest
and disease infestation and after calamities.
E. Technology Promotion Strategies
Several promotional strategies of the S&T interventions in the STBF on

Vegetable Production were adopted. These included the Technology Field Day,

IEC materials production, press and broadcast releases, and adopters training,
and trade fairs, and exhibits.
Technology Field Days (TFD). Inherent in the STBF is the conduct of

TFD led by the PMA after the completion of each cycle. The TFD promoted the
S&T interventions to farmers in the locality and in the province and ensured that
S&T interventions were properly and completely shared to adopters. It was
expected that through these activities, the participants had a first-hand
experience in comparing the MS and enhanced practices.
Technology dissemination strategies/activities employed during TFD

were: 1) field observation; 2) MSs and technical experts lecture forum on the
effects of the S&T interventions both on the MS and enhanced practices; 3)
production and distribution of IEC materials on the S&T interventions; 4)
preparation of technology posters used in the lecture forum; and 5) open forum
or direct interaction between the participants and the MS and technical expert.
The TFD was also the venue where various stakeholders such as the
project implementation partners and the local executive or his representative
were invited. This activity enabled the funding agency to assess the project
implementation and renewed the LGUs commitment, as well as ensured
continuous project implementation (Table 5).
Table 5. Technology field days conducted in the STBF by the PMA.
TECHNOLOGY FIELD DATE PARTICIPANT

DAY
Farmers Field Day on Dec. 28, 60 farmers from Bacarra,
Organic-Based Vegeta- 2007 Pasuquin and Sarrat; repre-
ble Production sentatives from
MAO,LGU,OPAG, MMSU
and ILARRDEC
Farmers Field Day on Jul. 18, 2008 80 farmers from Bacarra,
Organic-Based Vegeta- Pasuquin, San Nicolas, and
ble Production Batac City; representatives
from MAO,LGU,OPAG,
MMSU and ILARRDEC
Farmers Field Day on Dec. 17, 2008 85 farmers from Bacarra,
Organic-Based Vegeta- Vintar, San Nicolas, Batac
ble Production and Laoag City; representa-
tives from MAO,LGU,OPAG,
MMSU and ILARRDEC

43
IEC materials production and distribution. The distribution of IEC
materials to participants strengthened the lessons learned from the TFD. During
the first TFD, the documented MS practice was published. In addition, the
preliminary results of the S&T were included. In the second cycle TFD, the S&T
interventions were highlighted and a comparison between the MS and enhanced
practices was presented. During the third TFD, the S&T interventions and their
impact were presented, highlighting the differences in the yield and income
between the two sets of practices. The IEC produced for the STBF are as
follows:
Adda Kuarta iti Basura, Agorganiko nga Abono Itan. This is an information
bulletin type of publication showcasing the importance of organic farming
and the different S&T interventions in the MS and the enhanced practices.
STBF Organiko a Wagas ti Panagmula iti Natnateng. This is a 40-page
IEC material on the production technologies used by Mr. Acosta in the
STBF. The IEC material is an offshoot of the different practices applied
done by Mr. Acosta in his farm. ISBN number was secured for the
brochure (ISBN No. 978-971-790-071-1).
A video presentation was also produced documenting the different
practices of Mr. Acosta including the S&T interventions.
IEC materials on organic farming including the different technology
interventions.
Press and radio broadcasts. To maximize the potential of all modalities

used in sharing the S&T interventions, articles were written and published in
various print materials and were broadcast in some radio stations in the province.
Among these include the following:
Activities conducted in the STBF farm were aired through the MMSU Rimat

ti Ilocandia Program over DWFB-Radyo Ng Bayan (Laoag) from 10 to 11
AM every Wednesday;
Mr. Nestor C. Acosta also shared his experiences on organic farming to
listeners of the MMSU Rimat ti Ilocandia Program;
Activities were reported to DWFBs Bayan Patrol aired from 8 to 10 AM
every day.
Six articles on the implementation of the TGP in Ilocos Norte including that
of the STBF were published in Extension Directorates Extensionist. This
is a monthly publication of the Extension Office of MMSU to highlight its
accomplishments and activities. Two hundred copies of the newsletter
were distributed to LGUs in the province., FITS centers, farmers, and other
extension clients. These articles were also published in the ILARRDEC
Reporter. Copies were distributed during the 20th Regional Symposium
on R&D Highlights

Adopters training on vegetable production. After the STBF
completion, an adopters training was conducted in collaboration with the FITS
Center in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte on June 11, 2009 at the Liga Building, Bacarra,
Ilocos Norte. The training showcased the S&T interventions of the STBF on
Vegetable Production. Through the activity, farmers were able to learn the S&T
interventions in producing naturally-grown vegetables like off-season tomato,
ampalaya, patola, and squash.
Specifically, the adopters training was conducted to: a) disseminate the

S&T interventions in the STBF within and outside the project area; b) conduct
technical briefing before project implementation to selected farmer-adopters; c)
increase productivity and income of the beneficiaries by using organic materials
applied in the STBF; and d) meet the target of 30 adopters at the end of the
STBF.
Participants included 37 farmers from Brgy. Paninaan, Macupit, and
Corocor, Bacarra, Ilocos Norte; farmers from Pasuquin who attended the TFDs
conducted at the S&T Based Farm of Mr. Acosta; Agricultural Technicians from
Bacarra; and staff from MMSU. The technical expert discussed the following
topics: a) Importance and effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers to crops, soil,
human, and environment; b) benefits of using organic fertilizer; c) production
technologies of off-season tomato, patola, ampalaya, and squash; d) preparation
and use of tea manure, fermented fruit juice, and fermented plant juice; and e)
use and benefits of plastic mulch.
In support to the adopters training, farm inputs were purchased and

distributed to the trainees during the training. These included seedling trays, as
well as tomato, squash, ampalaya, and patola seeds. Plastic mulch and organic
fertilizer (chicken dung and carbonized rice hull) were also purchased. Each
participant was given two packs of seeds to plant. An organic liquid fertilizer was
also distributed by FITS Bacarra to the participants.
Site evaluation on the areas of the adopters was conducted on June 18,
2009. The Barangay Kagawad of Paninaan and Chair of the Committee on
Agriculture where most of the adopters reside was assigned as the farmer-
leader. He was assisted by MMSU and FITS Bacarra in monitoring the farmer-
adopters practices.
After planting, regular monitoring was conducted by MMSU and Bacarra

FITS staff to ensure that the S&T interventions in the MSs farm were followed.
Majority of the farmer-adopters were able to observe the effect of using plastic
mulch and the organic way of planting vegetables. Unfortunately, however, most
of the vegetables planted at that time were damaged by typhoon Ondoy and
Pepeng.

45
II. Effects of Utilizing S&T Interventions in Vegetable Production:
Comparison on the Yield and Income of the MS and Enhanced
Practices
A. Detailed S&T Interventions
The detailed technology interventions for the four vegetable commodities

squash, bittergourd, tomatoes, and ampalaya - and the MSs experiences in
working on the farms for the MS and enhanced practices are presented in Tables
6a-6d.
Squash production. The MS completed the three cropping cycles for

squash production. However, significant deviations in applying the interventions
were observed. In terms of fertilizer management, the MS applied the
interventions on both the MS and enhanced practices. However, the MS applied
Berelex to stimulate the growth performance of the crop in the second and third
cycles. Likewise, barrier crop was planted in the three cycles. Meanwhile,
marigold was only planted in the first cycle due to inadequate seedling source
during the second and third cycles.
Bitter gourd production. The MS completed the three cycles without

necessarily deviating from the technology that was recommended for the two set-
ups. In producing bitter gourd production, however, repellent and barrier crops
were not planted around the farm for the enhanced practice.
Tomato production. The MS implemented the three cycles for tomato

production; however, the second cycle failed. During the second cycle, the MS
used MMSU Hybrid 2, which was the same variety planted during the first cycle.
Because the seedlings were heavily attacked by virus, they were replanted, but
then they were similarly attacked by virus. With the advice of the technical expert,
the MS shifted to Diamante variety during the third cycle. Likewise, pigeon pea
was planted instead of corn as a barrier crop.
Patola production. Similar to the case of tomato production, only the first
two cycles were completed in the patola production. The interventions were also
followed under the MS and enhanced set-ups. The crops, however, were
seriously damaged by typhoon during the second cycle, which affected their
yield.
B. Enterprise Performance Data
It was observed that crop damages caused by insects and pests were
reduced, however, crops were not totally protected from them. The impact,
however, was observed in the non-application of chemical insecticide under the
enhanced practice.

Table 6b. S&T interventions in bitter gourd production.
MS PRACTICE ENHANCED PRACTICE

Variety: East West Bonito Variety: East West Bonito
2
Area: 500m Area: 500m2
Date Planted:
1st cycle: September 25, 2007 1st cycle: September 25, 2007
2nd cycle: May 20, 2008 2nd cycle: May 20, 2008
3rd cycle: October 6,2008 3rd cycle: October 6, 2008
Fertilizer Management
Applied 20 bags of chicken manure Applied 20 bags of chicken
Applied inorganic fertilizer -5 kg of manure
complete; 2.5 kg of urea Applied 20 bags of CRH
Applied 5 bags chicken manure, Applied FPJ, and FFJ at WIT
side-dress after one month Applied tea manure at 30-45-60
DAT
Table 6c. S&T interventions in tomato production.

Variety
1st cycle: MMSU Hybrid 2 1st cycle: MMSU Hybrid 2
3rd cycle: Diamante 3rd cycle: Diamante
Area: 1,020m2 Area: 1,020m2
Date Planted: Date Planted:
1st cycle : September 25, 2007 1st cycle : September 25, 2007
3rd cycle: October 6,2008 3rdcycle: October 6,2008
Used of plastic mulch Used of plastic mulch
Applied 40 bags chicken manure Applied of 20 bags of chicken ma-
Applied inorganic fertilizer 10kg nure
of complete fertilizer and 5 kg Applied 20 bags of CRH
urea Applied FPJ, and FFJ at WIT
Applied tea manure at 30-45-60 DAT
Insect Pest Management
No barrier crop Planted pigeon as barrier crop
No repellent crop Planted marigold as repellent crop

Table 6d. S&T interventions in patola production.

Variety:Primera Variety:Primera
Area: 1,000m2 Area: 1,000m2
Date Planted
1st cycle : September 25, 2007 1st cycle : September 25, 2007
2nd cycle: August,2008 2nd cycle: August of 2008
Used of plastic mulch Used of plastic mulch
Applied 10 kg complete fertilizer; 5 Applied 40 bags of chicken manure
kg urea; and 2.5 kg ammonium Applied 40 bags of CRH
sulphate Applied FPJ, and FFJ at WIT
Sprayed Berelex, 1 tsp/tankload, Applied tea manure at 30-45-60 DAT
twice a month
Insect Pest Management
Sprayed Palmolive shampoo Sprayed Palmolive shampoo
In squash production, lower yield was obtained during the first and second
cycles under the enhanced practice as compared to that of the MS practice
(Table 7). However, in the third cycle, higher yield was recorded in the enhanced
practice. For bitter gourd production, the enhanced practice had higher yield than
that of the MS practice in all the three cycles. But the patola and tomato
production wherein there were only two cycles completed, the enhanced practice
had lower yield than that of the MS.
On the long term, however, the enhanced practice had a higher return than
that of the MS practice. Nonetheless, there are some unquantifiable or
immeasurable returns as effects of using organic fertilizer and biological pest
control on the environment and in the consumers. That is so, because
incorporating organic materials can improve the water-holding capacity and
structure of the soil; hence, roots have better access and use of available
nutrients. Likewise, it increases microbial biomass, nitrogen fixing bacteria, and
other organisms that control the transformation of fertilizer materials into plant-
available forms. Additionally, seedlings as well as weeds can be pulled easily if
organic fertilizers are applied in seedbed (PhilRice, 2003).
C. Profitability Analysis (Partial Budget Analysis)
Partial budget analysis was used to assess the impact of the enhanced and
MS practices in producing organic vegetables at the S&T Based Farm of MS
Nestor Acosta. Results show that there were both positive and negative effects of
those practices (Table 8a-d).

49
51
Squash production. Both the first and second cycles of squash production
resulted to a negative estimated net income (Table 8a). This suggests a
reduction in the MSs net income during the two cycles amounting to P1,7760.00
and P529.00, respectively. This decrease was expected due to the delayed effect
of organic technique in crops. However, during the third cycle, an increase in
estimated net income was evident. This means that the enhanced practice led to
a net income of P11.50.
Bitter gourd production. Table 8b shows the partial budget analysis for
bitter gourd production. Results indicate a positive estimated net income change
in the three cycles. Although there was an increase in the net income across the
three cycles, the change declined through time is P6,396.00 in the first cycle to
549.00 in the third. The positive change across the three cycles implies that the
enhanced practice is more profitable compared to that of the MS practice.
The abrupt decrease in the net income during the third cycle when
compared to the first two cycles was attributed to the effect of a typhoon which hit
the province at that time.
Tomato production. Table 8c shows the results of the partial budget

analysis of tomato production in the first and third cycles. As noted earlier,
tomato production failed during the second cycle due to seedlings infestation. In
both cycles, a negative estimated net income change was evident. This means
that the MS practice realized a higher profit than that of the enhanced practice
with PhP 650.00 in the first cycle and Php390.00 in the third.
Patola production. When compared to the three vegetables produced in

the STBF, patola gave the highest negative estimated net income change as

shown in Table 8d during the first and second cycles. This indicates that the MS
practice performed better than the enhanced practice, with a profit amounting to
P17,103.00 and P16,803.00 in the first and second cycles, respectively.
While the negative estimated net income change indicates that the MS
practice was more profitable than the enhanced practice promoted via the STBF,
the MS still gained from the enhanced practice. However, the benefits may have
not been quantified. Among which are the potentials of using CRH, chicken
manure, FFJ, and FPJ that do not contaminate underground water with toxic
elements like nitrate (NO3). Likewise, applying organic manure and CRH
improves soil texture for better aeration; thus, providing the soil enough supply of
oxygen necessary for root development and growth. Moreover, sufficient organic
matter content of the soil surface improves water- and nutrient-holding capacity
and benefits successive crops. In addition, CRH helps absorb toxic substances
with hazardous effect on root development and plant growth as well as facilitates
the production of beneficial microorganisms in the soil.
On the other hand, the continuous use of inorganic fertilizer reduces soil
quality because of its filler that makes soil sticky when wet and very hard when
dry. These soil conditions hinder free circulation of oxygen and limit the water-
holding capacity of the soil surface. While inorganic fertilizers may have an
immediate effect in terms of the nutrients needed in crop growth, they lead to a
faster nutrient loss on the soil surface, which may require more of these for the
succeeding cropping seasons. Further, NO3 from inorganic fertilizer can
contaminate the underground water, thus, giving hazardous effect on human
health. Despite the lower increase in income obtained from the S&T
interventions, benefits derived from organic use surpassed those of inorganic
fertilizer use. Because of the long-term effect of applying organic fertilizers, it is
possible that crops yield exceeds those that were applied with inorganic fertilizer
in the succeeding years. Thus, it is essential to continuously utilize the
interventions under the enhanced practice.
CONCLUSIONS
Based on the findings, the following conclusions were drawn:
S&T interventions in organic on the R&D management in utilizing and

adopting vegetable production:
Properly selecting, evaluating, and mobilizing the local team as

organizational dynamics practices can ensure S&T interventions utilization
and adoption. This suggests that mobilizing experts and staff can help lessen

53
the work load among implementers, which contributes to smooth project
implementation.
As STBF partners, various stakeholders perform roles in implementing the

project. As such, they enjoy equity, not necessarily equality, in terms of
sharing their best for the project regardless of their status/stature.
Resource sharing and complementation ensures sustainability. This implies
that stakeholders investment in the project, in whatever amount, quantity or
form, ensures accountability and responsibility for project success and even
failure.
Restrictions in fund management are essential most especially when coupled

with tolerable flexibility in implementing policies. In crop production, a delay
in the provision of the resources spells an effect to the crop, with subsequent
negative result in the producers harvest and income.
Problems are integral in any project implementation but mechanisms in

conducting meetings as well as scheduled and unscheduled (on-the-spot)
monitoring can moderate its negative impact.
Employing various technology promotional strategies such as Technology

Field Days, IEC materials production, press and broadcast releases, and
adopters training can hasten S&T intervention utilization and adoption for as
long as farmer-adopters are properly monitored to sustain the adoption
process.
Vegetables production on the effects of utilizing S&T interventions:
The effects of the S&T interventions on the yield of the four commodities
varied across time. However, the S&T interventions had positive effects as
reflected in the higher yield of the enhanced practice compared to the MS
practice in all the three cycles. In squash production, the S&T intervention
resulted to a lower yield in the enhanced practice during the first and second
cycles. However, there was a positive effect of the S&T interventions as
reflected in the higher yield of the enhanced practice compared to that of the
MS practice. In tomato and patola production where only two cycles were
completed, the S&T interventions resulted to negative effects as the MS
practice recorded a higher yield than that of the enhanced practice.
Similarly, the effects of the S&T interventions on the income as shown in the
profitability analysis varied in the different commodities. For bitter gourd, the
S&T interventions led to a higher income under the enhanced practice within
the three cycles. However, in squash production, the S&T interventions led to

higher income under the MS practice in the first and second cycles but a
higher income under the enhanced practice in the third cycle. Meanwhile,
the S&T interventions had a negative effect on tomato and patola production
in the two cycles. This implies that the MS practice was more profitable than
the enhanced practice in tomato and patola production.
With regards to pest and disease management, the effects of planting barrier
and repellent crops under the enhanced practice was not conclusive as
these were not used in producing patola, bitter gourd, and squash for some
cycles due to the unavailability of planting materials.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the conclusions, the following recommendations are

forwarded:
Although R&D management practices in implementing the STBF can ensure

S&T interventions utilization and adoption, further studies should be done to
quantify their effect at the farmers field level.
Using FPJ, FFJ, and tea manure for bitter gourd production should be
sustained. However, further studies can be done to verify their effects on
fertilizer management in tomato, patola, and squash production.
Effects of planting crop barriers such as pigeon pea and corn, and repellent
such as marigold around vegetable crops on pests and diseases should be
verified further. Likewise, indicators to measure crop damage should be
considered in future studies.
Using CHR for soil enhancements should be done. However, soil analysis
before and after establishing the STBF should be done to further verify its
effects on fertilizer management.
REFERENCES
Alimbuyuguen, M. M, Tinguil, M.F, Gervacio, B.C., Gano, M.R., and Ibanez, V S

(2010). Management Innovative Strategies for Sustainabilty: An
Extension Management Tool in ed. Medrano W.C and Rimando
A.M., SUC Touchstones State Universities and Colleges Showcase
of Innovations and Best Practices, Golden Press, Tuguegarao City,
Cagayan, Philippines.
Alimbuyuguen, M. M and Julian, C.B. (2011). Impact of the Techno-gabay

Program on Palay Farms in Selected Municipalities of Ilocos Region,
ed. Aquino, A.P. , Brown, O.E; Cardenas, D.C.; The

55
Farm Impact Level of the Techno-Gabay Program Assessment,
Evidences, and Implications, PCARRD Book Series No. 182/2011,
PCARRD, Los Banos, Laguna.
Ballantine, J. H. and. Roberts, K.A. (2011). Our Social World, Introduction to

Sociology, 3rd Ed. Sage Publications, Inc, Canada
BAR (2008). Situation Report on Major Vegetables and Roots, January-

March, 2008, Vol. 1 No. 1 BAR, 2008, PHL-BAS-CrPS-2008-
rep.pdf, May, 2013.
Batt, P.J., Concepcion, S., Dagupen, K. Lizada, Ma C., and Murray-Prior, Roy.
(2007). The Philippine Industry. Final report, ACIAR, Australia, in
www.regoverningmarkets.orgRetrieved on May 13, 2013.
Department of Agriculture RFU1 (2013). Agri-Pinoy High Crops Development

Program Accomplishment Report, April 2013, Province of Ilocos-
Norte.
Digal, L., and Montemayor, R. (2007).The Philippine Vegetable Industry:

Trends, Issues and Policy Implications, A report on the project of
the International Federation of Agricultural Products (IFAP) on the
Participation of Producers in Dynamic Agri-Food Chains: A Pro-
gram of Support to Producer Organizations (Asia Component),
iwww.regoverningmarkets. org. Retrieved on May 13, 2013.
Garcia, A.M. et. al (2011). Research (Simplified Guide to Thesis Writing).

Booklore Publishing Corporation, Manila.
Ilocos Norte, Bacarra. http://www.ilocandiarealtor.com/informant. Retrieved

May 2013.
Mercado, C. M. (2006). A New Approach to Thesis Writing, Simplifying Social

Research, Development Center for Asia Africa Pacific, University of
the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City.
MPDO, 2010 http://inorte.org/?page_id=429, retrieved May, 2013.
PCARRD (2008). PCARRD Book Series No. 177. Financial Analysis of S&T-
based Farms and Investment Packages: A Practitioners Guide
Book., PCARRD, Los Banos Laguna.

The Case of Dragon Fruit Production
Marivic M. Alimbuyuguen, Maura Luisa S. Gabriel,
Mercy R. Gano, Edita A. Dacuycuy, Lolita M. Raposas,
Imelda C. Adalem, and Ruby B. Saoit
INTRODUCTION
Dragon fruit has gained worldwide recognition due to its economic and
health benefits. The crop is commonly known as pitaya and a native to Central
America and Mexico. It was introduced in the Philippines decades ago and its
economic importance was realized when fruits were initially imported from
Vietnam and Thailand. In spite of its premium price, it is a favorite fruit of many
Filipinos because of its known therapeutic properties. With the increasing
demand of dragon fruit from local consumers, it is an emerging champion in the
local fruit industry, which gives lucrative income to farmers (Pascua et al., 2010).
The plant grows well in the province with its distinct wet and dry
seasons. The plant requires easily drained and high organic matter soil, less
irrigation, and minimal maintenance and it takes only nine months to one year for
the plant to grow and bear fruit. Fruiting season starts from May to November
(wet season), with at least five to six harvesting cycles every year.
Considering the climatic condition of the Ilocos, dragon cactus is very

adaptable and is recommended in marginal upland areas and sand dunes.
Planting dragon cactus converts marginal and idle lands into productive areas
(Pascua et al, 2010).
Dragon cactus is considered as a climate-change mitigating plant since it

can be cultivated with minimal water. This is also an environment-friendly plant
since it could help in greening the gray areas especially those left barren or idle
and underutilized lands. Dragon cactus can be applied with locally-produced
materials such as organic fertilizers and with environment-friendly pest
management technologies.
The wide-scale planting in Region I started in 2007 when the Rare
Eagle, Forest, Marine, and Agricultural Development (REFMAD) farm in
57
Barangay Paayas, Burgos, Ilocos Norte, owned and managed by Magsasaka
Siyentista (MS) Edita A. Dacuycuy, established the first dragon cactus plantation.
With the existing plantation of MS Dacuycuy, the supply of fruits in the market
was very minimal, thus, she worked for the expansion of the dragon fruit farm
and promotion of its production in the province to encourage more farmers and
enthusiasts to grow the plant. With a hectare of dragon fruit, a grower can obtain
a promising amount to sustain the family needs.
There is a high demand of dragon fruit in both local and foreign markets.
This is the reason why MS Dacuycuy expanded her dragon fruit farm from five to
ten hectares and intensified the promotion of dragon fruit production in the
province. Her goal is to go into dragon fruit wine and puree processing in the
near future.
Dragon fruit is one of the focus commodities of the Office of the

Provincial Agriculture-Farmers Information and Technology Services Center
(OPAG- FITS Center) of Ilocos Norte. Jointly implemented by OPAG-FITS
Center, MMSU, LGU-Burgos and ILARRDEC-PCARRD, the Science and
Technology-Based Farm (STBF) on Dragon Fruit Production was established.
This initiative has encouraged more dragon fruit enthusiasts to grow the crop and
develop a healthy, environment-friendly, and cost effective technology on dragon
-fruit production. The project covered 5,000 m2 with 160 poles each of the MS
and enhanced practices. As a demonstration area for dragon fruit production,
the enhanced practice showcased three major interventions vis--vis the existing
MS practice. These included the direct planting of stem cutting instead of three
month-old seedlings raised in the nursery; the application of organic fertilizers;
and the use of plastic mulch to conserve soil moisture and weed growth.
Duration of the project. The STBF on Dragon Fruit Production was

conducted in three cycles, from August 2009 to August 2012.
Limitations of the project. The MS successfully completed the three

cropping cycles following the interventions for the MS and enhanced practices.
With the increasing demand of the crop, the MS sometimes could fully supervise
the STBF due to her busy schedule in assisting dragon fruit growers.
Nevertheless, with the local team assisting the MS, such problems were solved.
Significance of the project. With the growing trend for the demand of
dragon fruit and its promising benefits, producing quality fruits is urgently needed.
Thus, the establishment of the STBF on dragon fruit production showcases the
profitability of growing dragon fruit and highlights the application of
environmentally-sound and socially-justified agricultural systems. The scheme
has provided the prospective adopters such as farmers, entrepreneurs, and other

clients not only in the province, but in the opportunity to see for themselves the
feasibility of adopting appropriate technologies for dragon fruit production that
would improve its efficiency and sustainability.
Further, the findings of the STBF on Dragon Fruit Production would be

essential to technical experts and agriculturists particularly in terms of
conceptualizing future research studies, whose results could serve as inputs in
developing a package of technology (POT) for dragon fruit production. With the
S&T interventions in the enhanced practice and the increasing number of dragon
fruit growers, dissemination of the S&T interventions would be facilitated all the
more, thus, sustaining the production of safe and healthy food for the populace.
Lastly, the findings of the STBF can be used as bases in enhancing

existing policies and in creating new guidelines to strengthen the implementation
of the Philippine Organic Law that addresses the problems and issues on
accrediting organically-produced crops.
METHODOLOGY
Project site. The STBF on Dragon Fruit Production was established in

MS Edita Dacuycuys farm in Barangay Paayas, Burgos, Ilocos Norte. Barangay
Paayas is one of the 11 barangays of the municipality. (http://www.ilocandia
realtor.com/informant. May , 2013).
Burgos is a fifth class municipality with an area of 128.90 km 2 (49.8 sq

mi) and it has a population of 8,765 residing in 1,784 households.
Burgos lies between the towns of Bangui and Pasuquin. It is traversed

by the national road and is 47 km north of Laoag City. It is bounded by the town
of Bangui on the north, Pasuquin on the south, Vintar on the east, and the south
China Sea on the west.
Majority of the residents grow commercial crops like rice, garlic, tomato,
mungo and corn. Additionally, they venture into fishing, livestock and swine
raising, rice milling, and cottage industries like furniture and hollow-blocks
making, smelting, salt-making, and mat weaving (http://www.ilocandiarealtor.
com/informant. May, 2013).
The town is endowed with scenic and breathtaking shore or coastline

from plain white beaches in Barangays Paayas and Bobon to rugged and sharp
cliffs naturally formed through the centuries like the Gagamtan Cliff in Barangay
Bayog and the Kapur-purawan Cliff in Barangay Saoit. (http://inorte.org/?
page_id=438).

59
S&T-based interventions/component technologies. The STBF was
established on August 7, 2009 with the participation of dragon fruit enthusiasts
from various towns of Ilocos Norte, community members, and the OPAG,
ILARRDEC, and MMSU staff. One-hundred sixty dragon fruit poles were
established for the MS and enhanced practices.
The STBF on dragon fruit production accommodated the following

interventions:
Using cuttings instead of nursery seedlings raised for three months. Dragon
cactus cuttings with at least 0.5 m height were directly planted; one cutting
per side of the concrete/wooden post (4/posts). Stem cuttings were used
because they were cheaper (P50.00/cutting) compared to the cuttings raised
in the nursery for three months (P100-200/cutting).
Applying 2 kg of organic fertilizer every quarter and spraying foliar fertilizer at
a rate of 15 ml/16L knapsack sprayer every 15 days. Organic fertilizer was
applied because it does not only enhance soil nutrients but it improves soil
quality as well. Meanwhile, foliar fertilizer was used to improve growth
performance of the crop.
Using plastic mulch during fruiting season. Plastic mulch was used to retain
soil moisture and control weed growth. During that, it reduced the irrigation
cost and the labor for weeding. Likewise, this cultural technique can
increase air and soil temperature which hastens plant development and
increases yield.
I. Activities that Facilitate Utilization and Adoption of S&T Interventions

on Dragon Fruit Production
Designation of project team. To ensure the smooth implementation of

the project, a project team was organized. This team was composed of staff from
the FITS center and the Partner member Agency (PMA) which is MMSU. (Table
1).
Selection and evaluation of the MS. MS Dacuycuy was appointed by
the RRDCC of ILARRDEC in December 2008. Like any mother who would do
and give everything to her child, Dacuycuy pioneered the planting of dragon fruit
in Ilocos Norte when she was looking for an alternative cure to her childs
constipation problem, as a complication of cerebral palsy. Informed by the
therapeutic properties of the plant, she propagated the plant as an immediate
source of cure for her childs illness. Driven by her childs need, dragon fruit
production turned into a promising venture. From the initial establishment

Table 1.Composition of the STBF management staff.
POSITION STAFF
Manager Mr. Lolita Raposas
Technology Services Specialist Ms. Imelda Adalem
Information Services Specialist Ms. Ruby Saoit
MagsasakaSiyentista Ms.EditaDacuycuy
MMSU-PMA
Team Leader Dr.Marivic M. Alimbuyuguen
Focal Person Ms. Mercy Gano
Technical Expert Prof. Ma. Luisa Gabriel
Project Economist Mr.JaypeeIlacas
Administrative Ms.Cresensia Sebastian
of a 2.0-ha dragon fruit plantation in Brgy. Paayas, Burgos, Ilocos Norte, MS

Dacuycuy was able to employ seven regular laborers and ten on call laborers to
help her expand production area to 5.0 hectares in 2010. With this, she was able
to create employment opportunities in their community.
Through her initiative, dedication, and willingness to share her technical

expertise, she was able to encourage growers and entrepreneurs to adopt
dragon fruit production in the province.
The risk-taking capability of a woman to plant an unknown crop in Ilocos

Norte and her belief of what she can do and what she can contribute to her family
and her community led to the adoption of dragon fruit as the One-Town, One
Product (OTOP) of Burgos, Ilocos Norte. Moreover, MS Dacuycuy organized
dragon fruit growers in the province through the Saniata Dragon Fruit Growers
with 27 founding members.
As she continuously reaps blessings from her dragon fruit production,

MS Dacuycuy believes that she also has to sustain giving back to mother nature.
She does this by taking care of the environment. She is an advocate of organic
farming practices. In fact, she has been producing her own organic fertilizer out
of the waste materials from her farm to support the nutrients needed her plants.
Moreover, she follows environment-friendly strategies on fertilizer and pest
management.

61
Looking at the future and the potential of dragon fruit in the country and
even abroad, MS Dacuycuy is now producing various products from dragon
cactus. Her desire to add value to available raw materials had motivated her to
go into the processing of the fruit and other plant parts. Through her research,
she learned that every part of the dragon fruit plant has its own uses. The fruits
for instance, can be made into ice cream. The unopened flower buds can be
cooked as salads and eaten as vegetables. Meanwhile, the dried flowers can be
used in preparing a soup and lumpia. Likewise, the skin pulps can be boiled as
cleansing drinks and jam. In addition, the fruits can be processed for special
beverages, as flavor for all kinds of drinks. And lately, Ms. Dacuycuy has started
producing dragon cactus soap made from its stem. These are some of the
processed products and by-products of the dragon cactus ventured by the MS to
enhance its value. Additionally, she wanted to establish the first dragon fruit
winery in this part of the region in the near future.
Inception meeting. After the approval of the proposal submitted at the

REFMAD Farms, Burgos, Ilocos Norte to PCARRD, ILARRDEC through MMSU
conducted an inception meeting on July 22, 2009. During that meeting, existing
practices of MS Dacuycuy, proposed technology interventions, financial viability
of the project, work and financial plan, and other important activities to be
undertaken in establishing and implementing the STBF were discussed.
Problems encountered by MS Dacuycuy like the attack of fruit flies and ants
were also discussed together with their possible solutions.
As a result, the group agreed and finalized the MS practice and the
S&T interventions for the enhanced practice (Table 2).
Technology Promotion Strategies
Several promotional strategies of the S&T interventions in the STBF on

dragon fruit production were adopted. Among which are technology field day,
IEC production, press and broadcast releases, adopters training, and trade fairs
and exhibits.
Technology Field Days (TFD). Three STBF field days were scheduled,
but only two were carried out due to the hectic schedule of the MS in her
technology promotion activities. (Table 3). Likewise, the weather condition during
the scheduled TDF for the second year cycle was relatively unfavorable. The TDF was
rescheduled but due to the MS health-related problems, the said strategy was not
carried out. Nevertheless, these problems did not affect the growing demand of growing
the crop. In fact, there is a yearly-reported increase in the number of individuals growing
the crop not only in the province but nationwide.

Table 2. Technology components and activities agreed during the STBF
local team meeting.
ENHANCED AREA OF
COMPONENT MS PRACTICE
PRACTICE INTERVENTION
Bio Physical Planted drago Dragon cactus
and Cultural cactus in a well- were planted in a
Management drained soil which well-drained soil
was previously
cogon area with
ipil-ipil and madre
de cacao trees
Plant Established Established 80

Establisment concrete and concrete and 80
wooden posts with wooden posts for
a 3mx3m distance clinging
and rubber tire on
top of the posts to Having 3mx 3m
support the distance with
branches rubber tire on top of
the posts to support
the branches
Planted 4 stem Planted directly Using stem cutting is
cuttings per post 0.5m height stem cheaper than that of
propagated/rooted cuttingsper side of nursery-raised cutting
in nurseries for 3 the posts at 4
months cuttings /post Direct planting of stem
cuttings reduces material
and labor costs
Nutrient Applied pure Applied 2 kg Producing of organic
Management inorganic fertilizer organic fertilizer fertilizer from wastes of
(14-14-14 at 59.5 during plant the plantation combined
g and urea at establishment with cow dung, chicken
18.08 g/post) manure, ipil-ipil, and
every quarter Applied 2 kg kakawate leaves
during the first organic fertilizer at
year of plant the base of the Applying organic fertilizer
establishment. plant quarterly to restore/retain quality
during growing and soil nutrients
off-fruiting months
Applying foliar fertilizer to
Applied organic Applied 2 kg improve growth
fertilizer at 1 kg/ organic fertilizer/ performance of the crop
post per month post before and
and every 15 days during fruiting Producing of organic-
at fruiting months months. based dragon fruit
during the second promotes environment-
year of plant Increased and health- friendly
establishment application of strategies
and onwards organic fertilizer at
3-5 kg /post from
third year of plant
establishment and
onwards

Table 2 continuation....
ENHANCED AREA OF
COMPONENT MS PRACTICE
Nutrient Applied foliar
Management fertilizer at a rate
of 15ml/16li
knapsack sprayed
every 15 days
Crop Sprayed Sevin Scattered wood Using wood ash, fruit

Protection and Malathion(3-4 ash at the base of bagging, seaweeds, and
tbsp/knapsack the plant Sorgenis in controlling
sprayer/16 li) insect pests and diseases
alternately to Applied seaweeds
control ants (aragan) as insect
repellant
Applied Sorgen
(attractant) to
control fruit fly
Pruning Pruned only Pruned and

unwanted maintained only 2
branches healthy branches
per plant to cling/
climb on the tire
for the
development of
new branches to
form an umbrella
canopy
Weeding Used grass cutter Used plastic Using plastic mulch to

along the rows mulch to cover preserve soil moisture
and between both sides along and reduce the growth
hills to control the rows to control of weeds. As well as
weeds and weeds, conserve reduces the irrigation
practiced hand- moisture, and and labor cost
weeding provide heat
around the summation to the
plants plant
Water Irrigated weekly

Management during summer
months
Harvesting Harvested the Harvested the

fruits 30-32 fruits 30-32
days after days after
flowering flowering

TECHNOLOGY SCHEDULE PARTICIPANT

FIELD DAY
Organic-Based Dragon February 24, MAOs, ATs, MS from San
Fruit Production, 2011 Nicolas, Vintar, Paoay,
Paayas, Burgos, IN implementing agencies and
dragon fruit enthusiasts from
Claveria, Cagayan.
Organic -Based July 19, 2012 ATs, TLE teachers in

Dragon Fruit elementary and secondary
Production Cum schools, rural women, OSY,
Cross-Farm Visits FITS staff and MS, officers and
MS Edita A. members of the Kailokuan
Dacuycuy Saniata Dragon Fruit Growers
Brgy. Paayas, Association, and entrepreneurs,
Burgos, Ilocos Norte and personnel from MMSU, ATI
Catuguing and ILARRDEC.
Elementary School
Dragon Fruit Project
San Nicolas, Ilocos
Norte
Palayamanan 4-H
Club Dragon Fruit
Project
San Nicolas,
IlocosNorte
REER Dragon Fruit
Garden
Sarrat, Ilocos Norte
Calsadas Dragon
Fruit Garden
Bacarra, Ilocos
Norte
Padrons Dragon
Fruit Intercropped
with Papaya
Bacarra, Ilocos
Norte

Produced and distributed IEC materials. The IEC materials produced
for the STBF on dragon fruit production are presented in Table 4.
Press and radio broadcasts. To maximize the potential of all media in

the dissemination of S&T interventions, articles were written and published in
various print media outlets in the province.
Primarily, activities conducted in the STBF were aired through the

MMSU Rimat ti Ilocandia Program over DWFB Radyo Ng Bayan-Laoag, 10-11
AM every Wednesday which was hosted by Ms. Mercy R. Gao. Activities were
also reported to DWFBs Bayan Patrol aired from 8 to 10 AM everyday.
Likewise, MS Dacuycuy was invited in the school-on-the-air program co-

hosted by Development Communication (DevCom) students of the College
of Agriculture, Food and Sustainable Development (CAFSD) of MMSU at DWFB
Radyo Ng Bayan-Laoag, and Radio Station RPN 9 DZRL in Batac City, Ilocos
Norte to share her success story in dragon fruit production (Table 5).
Published articles. To further enhance the promotion of the STBF

project, articles were published in the Extensionist, a bi-monthly publication of
the MMSU Extension Directorate, and in the ILARRDEC web (Table 6).
Training on dragon fruit production and processing, and

attendance to conferences/fora. The potentials of dragon fruit have reached far
and wide. MS Dacuycuy has extended her expertise in dragon fruit production in
the neighboring provinces of Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Isabela, and
Cagayan.
As reflected in the various activities involving MS Dacuycuy in dragon

fruit production and processing coupled with her leadership quality and linkages
she has exceeded the expectations from a MS. In fact, various farmers and
entrepreneurs have been engaged in dragon fruit production, with the assistance
of MS Dacuycuy. To date, there are 577 dragon fruit grower-adopters, with
85,851 poles planted in an area of 68.0201 hectares in the province.
Moreover, a dragon fruit production farm with 50 dragon cactus rootings

set up in 25 posts was established at the Batac Jail Management and Penology,
Batac City, Ilocos Norte on March 19, 2011. The planting materials were taken
from the STBF project.
Additionally, a demonstration farm on dragon fruit production was

established at the Gawad Kalinga (GK) Foundation is Enchanted Farm in Brgy.
Encanto, Angat, Bulacan on April 29, 2011. The project has been managed by

Table 4. IEC materials produced for STBF Organic-Based Dragon Fruit
Production.
PUBLICATION TITLE TYPE/ISBN/ISSN FUNDING
SOURCE
Brochure/Leaflet
How to Grow Dragon Fruit/ MMSU-FITS ILARRDEC
Saniata Dragon Fruit IEC/
ISSN 2094-8476
Agmula iti Saniata Dragon ISSN 2094-8468 FITS Project
Cactus
Processed Food Products ISSN 2094-8476 FITS Project
from Dragon Cactus
Meet the Dragon Fruit Lady in Information FITS Project
the Ilocos Bulletin
Lets Prepare Dragon Cactus Three-fold leaflet FITS Project
Herbal Soap
Dragon Cactus Processing Brochure FITS Project
Technologies
Poster in Tarpaulin Format
Panagpatanor iti Saniata Poster STBF Project
Dragon Cactus Para iti
Nasalun-at, Nabaknang ken
Naprogreso a Pagilian,
Agmula iti Saniata
Dragon Fruit S&T

Interventions
Sursuruten a Teknolohia ti
MS iti STB Farm
Dagiti Pakaaramatan ti
Saniata Dragon Cactus
Dagiti Ballaigi iti Panagmula

iti Saniata Dragon Cactus
How to Grow Dragon Cactus
Health Benefits of Dragon

Cactus
Processed Products from

Dragon Cactus

Table 5.Topics aired in the School-on-the-Air program.
DATE TOPIC SPEAKER

March 16, 2010 Kick-off Program Dr. Stanley C. Malab
March 17, 2010 Overview of the Dragon Mr. Leonardo T.

Fruit Production Project Pascua
March 18, 2010 Benefits of Dragon fruit Ms. Edita A.
How to Grow Dragon Dacuycuy
Fruit
March 19, 2010 Pest Management & Prof. Maura Luisa S.
Problems in Dragon Fruit Gabriel
Production
March 20, 2010 Recipes of Dragon Fruit Ms. Edita A.
Dacuycuy
March 21, 2010 Economics of Dragon Ms. Edita A.
Fruit Dacuycuy
26 families in the area dubbed as Kapit-Kabahayan (KB). A total of 200 cuttings

planted in 50 posts were established in the area. The planting materials were
likewise sourced out from the STBF project.
Another demonstration farm was established at the GK Namnama

Village, Laoag City in April and May 2011. Another 50 rooted cuttings, courtesy
of the STBF project, were planted in 25 posts.
Value adding activities. Dragon fruit processing techniques have been

initiated by the MS where every part of the dragon fruit plant-clash from its
flowers to its fruits-is not wasted. She has developed recipes on dragon fruit
pastries such as cupcakes, macaroons, cookies, hopia, and pacencia. Similarly,
she has promoted dragon fruit as major ingredient in shanghai lumpia, siomai,
and empanadita, salads, and soups as well as special desserts and sweetening
such as ice-cream, fruit salad, cake, and jam. She has also started wine and
vinegar making from the fruit and herbal soap from the dragon cactus.
A skills training on dragon cactus soap and dishwashing liquid making

was conducted by MMSU and FITS-OPAG on March 28, 2011. This was
attended by 48 members of the Saniata Dragon Fruit Association and some
households from GK Namnama Village, Laoag City and Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
The training provided means to maximize the utilization of the dragon cactus.
Packaging and labelling. MMSU assisted the MS in producing,

labelling, and packaging various dragon fruit-processed products. The GS1
Philippines provided barcode numbers for all the products she produced.

Marketing. To continually promote dragon fruit production, MS
Dacuycuy participated in various agro-industrial trade fairs at the regional and
national levels. The MS was likewise supported by MMSU in her participation to
various trade fairs to promote, advertise, exhibit, and market her products.
II. Effects of Utilizing S&T Interventions in Dragon Fruit Production:

Comparison on the Yield and Income of the MS and Enhanced Practices
This section discusses the results of utilizing the S&T intervention in dragon
fruit production in terms of the yield and income in using the MS and enhanced
practices.
A. S&T Interventions
Table 7 presents the details of the technology interventions followed in

the MS practice vis--vis the enhanced practice.
Four parameters were used to compare the MS and enhanced practices

- yield (kg), average weight/fruit (g), average number of fruits/kg, and average
number of fruit/hill. Findings show that across all the parameters, the enhanced
practice, (using either wooden or concrete posts) gave better results than those
of the MS practice.
In terms of yield, the enhanced practice had higher average production

in all the three cycles with 194kg, 365kg, and 549kg during the first, second, and
third cycles, respectively (Table 7). Moreover, the dragon cactus set up in
wooden posts yielded consistently higher than the concrete posts.
Similarly, the average weight/fruit(g) produced using the enhanced

practice was heavier compared to that of the MS practice (Table 8). This was
observed throughout the three cycles. Likewise, fruits in the wooden posts had
higher average weight during the first and third cycles. However, the fruits in the
concrete posts were heavier during the second cycle.

69
Table 6.Articles published on the STBF dragon fruit production.
ARTICLE /YEAR DATE PUBLISHED
MMSU Assists Three S&T Based Farm in July 2008

Ilocos Norte
From Sleepy Land to a Productive Farm August-September
Dragon Fruit Enthusiasts Elect Officers 2009
Dragon Fruit STBF Will Soon be June-July 2009
Established
Dacuycuy Attends Techno-Partnering January-February,
Forum 2010
Dragon Fruit Queen, Bimmisita iti MMSU
2010 Search for Most Outstanding Rural March-June, 2010
Woman: Dacuycuy is Finalist
NCRFW Validates Finalists to 2010
Search for Most Outstanding Woman
Newsbrief
Dacuycuy Most Outstanding MS in Re- July-September,
gion I 2010
Bangui and OPAG FITS Centers Host January-February
Farmers Field Day 2011
STBF Project, a Big Help to Farmers
Farmers Field Days kadagiti S&T Based- February 2011
Farms, Maisayangkat special issue
MMSU and OPAG Holds Skills Training March-April 2011
on Dragon Cactus Soap and Diswashing
Liquid Making
Heres How to Prepare Dragon Cactus
Herbal Soap
MMSU-BJMP Established Dragon Fruit
Production Project
MMSU Established Demo-Farms in GK-
Angat, Bulacan
Extension Directorate Spearheads July-August, 2011
Dragon Fruit Techno Forum

Table 7.The MS and enhanced practices followed during the first, second, and
third cycles of organic-based dragon fruit production.
ACTIVITY MS PRACTICE ENHANCED PRACTICE
Number and type Set up wooden and concrete Set up wooden and concrete posts
of posts posts (80 each) (80 each)
Area planted Planted in a well - drained Planted in a well-drained soil previ-

soil previously cogon area ously cogon area with ipil-ipil and
with ipil-ipil and madre de madre de cacao (kakawate) trees
cacao (cacawate) trees
Plant Established posts at a dis- Established posts at a distance of
establishment tance of 3m between posts 3m between posts and 3m between
and 3m between rows rows
Planted 4 stem cuttings Planted directly four 0.5m height

propagated in nurseries for 3 stem cuttings, one per side of post
months per post
Nutrient Applied pure inorganic fertil- Applied 2kg of organic fertilizer/

management izer (14-14-14 at 59.5 g and post every quarter during the grow-
urea at 18.08 g/post/month) ing period
every quarter during the first
year of plant establishment Applied 2kg of organic fertilizer/
post per month and quarterly dur-
Applied 1kg/post of organic ing the off-fruiting months on the
fertilizer every month and second year of plant establishment
every 15 days during the
fruiting months at the sec- Applied 3-5kg of organic fertilizer/
ond year of plant establish- post every quarter during off-
ment and onwards fruiting and every month during
fruiting at the 3rdyear of plant estab-
lishment
Applied Foliar fertilizer at a rate of

15 ml/16li knapsack sprayed every
15 days
Pest Sprayed Sevin and Applied aragan or seaweed for the
management Malathion alternately to con- first and second year (200 ml of
trol ants decoction to 16 li of water/
knapsack sprayer and sprayed
Sevin (3-4 tbsp/knapsack
sprayer/16 li during the fruiting
stage) to control ants
Pruning Pruned only unwanted Pruned stem cuttings for expansion
branches.
Weeding Used grass cutter to weed Used plastic mulch to cover both
between rows and hills; and sides along the rows to control
practiced hand weeding weeds, conserve moisture, and
around the plants provide heat summation
Water Irrigated weekly during Irrigated as the need arises
management summer
Harvesting Harvested the fruits at 30-32 Harvested the fruits 30-32 days
days after flowering after flowering

71
Table 8. Dragon fruit yield (kg) produced in the three cycles based on the different
types of posts used in the MS and enhanced practices.
TYPE OF YIELD (Kg)
POST First Cycle Second Cycle Third Cycle
MS Enhanced MS Enhanced MS Enhanced
Wooden 58 110 160 271 360 418
Concrete 55 84 55 94 125 131
Total 113 194 215 365 485 549
Table 9. Average weight/fruit (g) produced in the three cycles based on the different
types of posts used in the MS and enhanced practices.
Type of AVERAGE WEIGHT/FRUIT (G)

Post
First Cycle Second Cycle Third Cycle
Wooden 286.9 311.32 438.7 507.6 491.7 533.34
Concrete 200 218.75 333.3 525.9 484.1 531.9
Table 10 shows the average number of fruit/kg in the three cycles based
on the different types of posts used. However, significant differences were not
evident in terms of the average number of fruits/kg between the MS and
enhanced practices. It could be noted through that the average number of fruits/
kg decreased from the first to the third cycle, which means that the last cycle
produced the biggest fruits with two pieces/kg.
In terms of the average number of fruit/hill produced in the three cycles,
there was no difference in the first cycle under both practices (Table 11).
However, a difference is noted during the second and third cycles where there
were more fruits produced per hill in the enhanced practice than those in the MS
practice. When comparing the number of fruits produced based on the types of
posts used, the wooden ones had more fruits per hill than those of the concrete
posts.
C. Profitability Analysis
Planting stem cuttings directly, instead of using three-month old nursery

raised seedlings can save time, money, and effort in crop establishment. As
such, the use of stem cuttings can be recommended to dragon fruit growers and
other enthusiasts.
Moreover, the use of organic fertilizer, led to significant differences in the

harvested fruits. This suggests that the use of organic fertilizer restores or
retains quality soil nutrients, and improves growth.

Table 10.Average number of fruits produced in the three cycles based on the
different types of posts used in the MS and enhanced practices.
Type of AVERAGE NUMBER OF FRUIT/KG
Post
First Cycle Second Cycle Third Cycle
Wooden 3 3 2 3 2 2
Concrete 4 4 3 2 2 2
Table 11. Average number of fruit/hill produced in the three cycles based on the
different types of posts used in the MS and enhanced practices.
Type of AVERAGE NUMBER OF FRUIT/HILL
Post First Cycle Second Cycle Third Cycle
Wooden 2 2 4 6 6 8
Concrete 2 2 4 4 4 6
The use of plastic mulch resulted in significant differences between the

MS and enhanced practices. Plastic mulch helped preserve soil moisture,
reduced weed growth, and conserved soil nutrients needed by the plants. Thus,
with the use of plastic mulch, the additional labor cost in weeding and irrigation
was saved.
In the second cycle, the MS sprayed Sevin to control ants. As much as

the ants that destroyed the budding fruits could not be organically controlled
using seaweeds, the local team sprayed insecticide instead. Doing that controlled
the fast growing population of ants and saved the fruits from further damage.
Unlike in the second cycle, ants were not a problem in the first and third cycles.
The plants under the MS and enhanced practices had fruits after a year.
The fact that stem cuttings were directly planted in the enhanced practice,
implies that this method saves money, time, and effort compared to propagating
in the nursery before planting.
Based on the data gathered during the project implementation across the
different parameters, the interventions in the enhanced practice successfully
worked for the MS. That was so, because the fruits of plants applied with organic
fertilizer were bigger and heavier. In terms of the number of branches, the
enhanced practice also provided more branches that could be used as planting
materials for expansion purposes.

73
Furthermore, the use of plastic mulch helped in controlling weeds, con-
served soil moisture, and preserved soil nutrients. Hence, weeding and irrigation
costs were reduced in the enhanced practice.
On the whole, results showed that the enhanced practice provided

higher income than that of the MS practice. Additionally, differences were noted
between the MS and enhanced practices as a result of directly planting stem cut-
tings (Tables 12a-c).
Table 12a. Summary of the partial budget analysis for the first cycle in dragon
fruit production.
COST (INCOME REDUCING) BENEFIT (INCOME INCREASING)
Added Costs Value (P) Added Returns Value (P)
Costs of plastic Increase in the

mulch 1,033.00 production of dragon 12,150.00
fruit (81 kgs@P150/kg)
Reduced Returns Reduced Costs
Use of stem cuttings 32,000.00

Application of organic
fertilizer 6,900.00
Fuel for irrigation 1.000.00
Labor 200.00
Sub-Total A 1,033.00 Sub-Total B 52,250.00
NET CHANGE IN INCOME (B-A) = P 52,250.00 P1,033.00 = P51,217.00
Table 12b. Summary of the partial budget analysis for the second cycle in
dragon fruit production.
Costs of plastic Increase in the

mulch 1,033.00 production of dragon
fruit (150kgs@P120/kg) 18,000.00
fertilizer 5,650.00
Fuel for irrigation 1.000.00
Labor 1,600.00
NET CHANGE IN INCOME (B-A) = P27,950.00 1,033.00= P26,917.00

Table 12.c. Summary of the partial budget analysis for the third cycle in dragon
fruit production.
Costs of plastic mulch 1,033.00 Increase in the

production of dragon
fruit (61kgs@P100/kg) 6,100.00
Use of plastic mulch 2,500.00

(installed during the
1st cycle)
fertilizer 5,650.00
Fuel for Irrigation 1.000.00
Labor 1,600.00
Sub-Total A P1,033.00 Sub-Total B 16,850.00
NET CHANGE IN INCOME (B-A) = P 16,850.00 1,033.00= P 15,817.00
CONCLUSIONS
Based on the findings of the study, the following conclusions were drawn:
Establishing the STBF in the MS farm showcased three S&T interven-
tions on dragon fruit production, among which are: direct planting of
stem cuttings, applying of organic fertilizer, and using plastic mulch.
Planting directly of stem cutting, rather than planting nursery-grown
seedlings reduced cost incurred in plant establishment and saved on
labor, time, and effort.
Applying organic and foliar fertilizers in various rates and plant growth
stages, establishing and off-fruiting, led to better plant performance and
higher production.
Using plastic mulch retained soil moisture and controlled weed growth
and eventually reduced weeding costs for irrigation.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Anchored on the conclusions, it is recommended that:
The dissemination of the POT on dragon fruit production based on the

STBF experiences in the province be intensified;
Results of adopting environment-friendly practices such as the use of
biological pest and disease control measures in dragon fruit production
be further validated;

Dragon fruit production in schools through the TLE subjects of students
and the establishment of Dragon Fruit Production Demonstration
Projects in schools be intensively promoted.
Value-adding/processing training on dragon fruit be conducted for
interested entrepreneurs in the province.
Restrictions in fund management be implemented within an acceptable
degree of flexibility;
Solving problems be integrated in project implementation; however,
regular meetings, as well as scheduled or unscheduled monitoring
activities can be done to soften the negative impact of problems; and
Employing various technology promotional strategies such as technology
field days, IEC materials production, press and broadcast releases, and
adopters training can hasten the utilization and adoption of S&T
intervention; but then they should be properly monitored to sustain the
adoption process of farmers.
REFERENCES
Alimbuyuguen, M. M, Tinguil, M.F, Gervacio, B.C., Gano, M.R.; and Ibanez, V S,

(2010). Management Innovative Strategies for Sustainabilty: An Extension
Management Tool in ed. Medrano W.C and Rimando A.M., SUC
Touchstones State Universities and Colleges Showcase of Innovations and
Best Practices, Golden Press, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, Philippines.
Ballantine, J. H. and. Roberts, K.A, (2011). Our Social World, Introduction to

Garcia, A.M. et. al, Research (Simplified Guide to Thesis Writing), (2011).
Booklore Publishing Corporation, Manila
Ilocos Norte, Burgos. Retrieved from http://www.ilocandiarealtor.com/informant.

May 2013.
Mercado, C. M. (2006). A New Approach to Thesis Writing, Simplifying Social

Research, Development Center for Asia Africa Pacific, University of the
Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City.
MPDO, (2010). Retrieved from http://inorte.org/?page_id=429, May 2013.
PCAARRD (2008). PCARRD Book Series No. 177. Financial Analysis of S&T-
based Farms and Investment Packages: A Practitioners Guide Book.,
PCARRD, LosBanos Laguna
MMSU (2013). Terminal Report, STBF on Organic-Based Dragon Fruit

Production. Mariano Marcos State University, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte.

The Case of Garlic Production
Florendo G. Calamaan and Teodorico S. Parbo, Jr.
Lilia T. Taylan Lovelita A. Agustin
Divina V. Laguatan, Onofre G. Balantac
INTRODUCTION
The Pasuquin-FITS is one of the centers established in the province of

Ilocos Norte. The center, which is managed by the Municipal Agricultural Officer
(MAO), together with a Technology Service Specialist (TSS) and an Information
Service Specialist (ISS), is hosted by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of
Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte as support to its agriculture programs. This is
complemented and supported by a Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) or farmer-
scientist in the area who has excelled in farming and possesses leadership and
social credibility that can encourage, motivate, and lead other farmers to adopt
science-based technologies. As support to the center, specialists, scientists,
from partner-member agencies (PMAs) of the consortium (ILARRDEC) are
likewise tapped to provide technical assistance and consultancy services.
Garlic (Allium sativum) is the focused commodity of Pasuquin-FITS. It is

the most important cash crop and the most profitable during the dry season.
Garlic is popular as a condiment because of its flavour and spicy aroma as well
as its medicinal value. Considering the many benefits of garlic, several joint
initiatives have been undertaken by both local and national agencies to intensify
garlic production in the locality. The Municipality of Pasuquin is the biggest or
largest garlic producing area in the province, if not in the entire Philippines. In
2007 alone, the total production of garlic in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte was 1,925
metric tons from a total area of about 500 ha with an average bulb yield of 4t/ha
(Annual Report, MAO, Pasuquin, 2007). Nevertheless, the quality of this crop can
still be further harnessed via organic farming.
Usually, farmers in the locality are engaged in intensified production system

by applying excessive amount of inorganic fertilizers and pesticides to their garlic
crop. In fact, they rely primarily on the use of commercial inorganic fertilizers and

chemical insecticides. This may be economically profitable in the short run but
may not be sustainable in the long run. The massive and excessive use of
inorganic fertilizers and chemical pesticides considerably contributes to
environment degradation and adversely affects the health of farmers and
consumers as well.
The idea of establishing STBF serves as a show window to farmers in

terms of demonstrating, highlighting, and promoting relevant and appropriate
science-based technologies to address the gaps in technology adoption and
utilization with the ultimate goal of improving the productivity and income of the
farmers. Further, the designations of PMAs from the consortium to closely
monitor and supervise STBF activities and to provide technical assistance ensure
and sustain project operations.
Purpose of STBF. The STBF was established to showcase the

effectiveness of S&T interventions in garlic production via R&D management,
research utilization, and technology promotion. The project envisioned to
enhance the MS practice by improving farmers productivity and income through
S&T and to develop a package of technology (POT) for sustainable garlic
production.
Scope and Limitations. The STBF on garlic production was conducted in

three successive cropping years or seasons from 2007 to 2010. The S&T
interventions introduced were strictly applied and followed throughout the three
cropping years, except for some adjustments such as increasing the fertilizer
recommendations based on the soil analysis results of the STBF area during the
second and third year of implementation. Likewise, the STBF area was
expanded as recommended by the PCAARRD monitoring and evaluation team
during the first season trial. As such, the second season trial was laid-out in a
farm adjacent to the area used during the first year trial. Other reasons behind
the expansion were related to tenancy problems and delayed land preparation. In
addition, the organic fertilizer sources and preparations varied from year to year
due to their cost and availability.
Significance of the Project . Among farmers have shifted from traditional

farming to organic agriculture. That is so, because they are now aware of the
adverse effects of massive and excessive use of inorganic fertilizers and
chemical pesticides such as environmental and health hazards, as well as high
production cost. Moreover, the demand of naturallygrown vegetables
significantly increased annually, because consumers have become more
conscious on safe and chemical-free vegetables. To cope with that growing
demand, producing naturally-grown vegetables such as garlic has become

essential. Thus, S & T-based farm on garlic production was established to
showcase the effectiveness of S&T interventions in garlic production via R&D
management, research utilization, and technology promotion.
Objectives
The STBF project aimed to:
1. Explore the potentials of the R&D management practices to maximize

the S&T interventions in garlic production in terms of the following:
contributions of resource sharing, partnership building, technology
promotion, organizational dynamics, and problem-solving dynamics in
facilitating S&T intervention utilization and adoption; and
issues /concerns related to resource sharing, partnership building,
technology promotion, organizational dynamics, and problem-solving
dynamics in facilitating S&T intervention utilization and adoption.
2. Determine the effects of utilizing S&T interventions in garlic production

by comparing the following:
yield between the Magsasaka Siyentistas (MS) practice and S&T
interventions in the garlic production; and
income from garlic production utilizing MS practice and S&T
interventions.
METHODOLOGY
The project had two phases pre-implementation and implementation. In

the pre-implementation phase, activities dealt with the selection and organization
of the local team, selection and designation of the MS, inception meetings,
identification of existing farmers practices on garlic production and technology
gaps analysis, and identification of S&T interventions to the farmers /MSs
practice. On the other hand, the implementation phase activities covered site
selection and validation, include socio-demographic data gathering,
establishment and management of the STBF, promotional activities, farmers
response and adoption, performance data gathering, and data processing and
analysis.
Project Site. The STBF on garlic production was established in the farm
of Mr. Onofre Balantac, a Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) on garlic production in
Barangay 8 Sulongan, Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte. The site is approximately 700
meters away from the national highway. Sulungan, a garlic producing barangay,
is one of the 33 barangays of Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte (Figure 1).

79
Site of the STBF on Organic Garlic
Production, Brgy # 08 Sulongan,
N
Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte, Phils.
Fig. 1. Location map of the MS farm and S&Tbased farm (STBF) project on organic
garlic production in Barangay 8, Sulongan, Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
The municipality of Pasuquin has a total land area of 210.54km2

(21,054.00 ha) and has a population of 26,307 people residing in 5,187
households. Farming and fishing are the two major industries of the people in
the municipality. The principal crops include rice, for home consumption, and
garlic, a relatively big proportion of which is exported to other countries like
Taiwan. Other crops grown are eggplant, peanut, corn, shallot, tomato, and
other vegetables. Eggplant production is gaining importance by the farmers
particularly in the hilly and upland areas because of its high profit. The
municipality of Pasuquin is considered as the number one garlic producer in
Ilocos Norte, if not the whole region or country (http://e.wikipedia.org/wiki/
Pasuquin_Ilocos).
Selection of the Magsasaka Siyentista (MS). As a requirement in
establishing the S&T- based farm, an MS was selected from among the farmers
in the locality. The host FITS center (Pasuquin-FITS) nominated a farmer based
on his knowledge, performance, leadership, and social credibity. An evaluation
team formed by ILARRDEC conducted an interview with the nominated farmers
based on a set of criteria. After the approval of his appointment as MS, profiling
and documentation of his farm and farm practices were undertaken.
Assessment and selection of area for the STBF establishment. The

area was validated and characterized by the local team, the ILARRDEC, and the
RTGP Coordinator. A check list provided by PCARRD indicating the selection
criteria was used. The criteria include the following:
a. Accessibility of the area;
b. Soil condition and classification of the area;
c. Presence of other farmers as potential adopters; and
d. Availability of other resources (water supply, input providers, and
among others)
Organization of the local team. The local team was organized to

manage, supervise, and monitor the project implementation. The local team
composition was based on the term of reference given by PCARRD. Specifically,
it was composed of the team leader and expert from CODA who was the
designated/assigned PMA by the consortium; the FITS manager, TSS, and ISS
from the LGU- Pasuquin, and the MS.
Establishment and layout of the STBF. The STBF on garlic

production was established at the farm of Mr. Onofre G. Balantac in Barangay 8,
Sulongan, Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte, with a total area of about 0.65 ha. It was
divided into two plots, one plot was used for the MS practice and the other was
for the STBF. The project was implemented for three successive cropping
seasons from CY 2007-2008 to CY 2009-2010 (Table 1). The area for the STBF
increased annually as recommended by the PCAARRD Monitoring Evaluation
Team. Monitoring and evaluation were not only focused on the performance of
both the MS practice and the STBF but also on the number and response of
farmer adopters on the S&T interventions introduced. Observations and data
gathering on the number of farmer adopters, their area planted with garlic, and
their productivity were extended up to crop year 2010-2011.
Description of the S&T interventions and the package of technology
(POT) on garlic production. After documenting the MS practice on garlic
production, the technology gaps were indentified then techno-components to be
enhanced were introduced. The S&T interventions were the following:
1. Organic fertilizer. Organic fertilizer such as dried chicken manure (DCM),

shredded dried livestock manure and plant debris, and carbonized rice hull
(CRH) were applied just before the land preparation. The fertilizer rate was
based on the soil analysis results.
Table 1. Actual area planted (sq. m.) and dates of planting .
CROP YEAR AREA PLANTED, DATE OF PLANTING

m2
STBF MS STBF MS
PRACTICE
PRACTICE
CY 2007-2008, (Yr 1) 1250 1250 Nov 9, 2007 Nov 9, 2007
CY 2008-2009, (Yr 2) 2500 1000 Nov 4, 2008 Nov 3-4,
2008
CY 2009-2010, (Yr 3) 3500 1500 Nov 10-11, Nov 11-12,
2009 2009

81
2. Weed control. The field was ploughed and harrowed after a week. Manual
or hand weeding was employed to control the weed population during the
growth and development of garlic.
3. Insect pest management. The garlic plants were monitored as early as 20
DAP (2-3 leaves) until full-blown bulbs were formed (9 to 11 leaves) to check
the presence of insect pests. Biological pesticides such as Trichoderma were
applied when necessary.
The detailed technology components of the enhanced technology

(STBF) and the MS practice are presented in Table 2.
Garlic variety. Mindoro I variety was used in both in the STBF and MS
practice. According to the CPAR (2006) such variety was used in the project
because of its outstanding performance in the locality (Table 3).
Data Gathering Procedure
The operations and activities undertaken in the project were closely

monitored as well as properly recorded and reported by the local team for
process discussion and analysis. Moreover, activities were closely monitored
and checked to ensure that they were followed and accomplished. Likewise, all
local team events, such as meetings, were properly recorded.
Project documentation. Qualitative approach was used to answer the

first objective of the project. This involves the collection of observed and
documented data which are descriptive and narrative in nature. The operations,
activities, and technology components done/applied in both the MS practice and
the STBF were documented. The applicability such as processes and methods,
problems encountered, and adjustments made were recorded, discussed,
evaluated, processed, and analyzed through participatory approach during local
meetings and on-site visits. Processes were documented to record the
promotional activities conducted in the project such as technology field days, on-
site trainings, and on field visits. Responses, comments, suggestions, and
feedback of the MS and other farmers on the S&T interventions were solicited
and documented.
Likewise, quantitative approach was used to answer the second

objective. This involved the collection of numerical or quantitative data such as
the following:
1. Description of the area and soil physical and chemical characteristics.

The area was assessed and validated in terms of accessibility, availability of
input providers, sources of irrigation water, topography, cropping pattern, and
the like. To determine the effects of organic fertilizer on the soil properties,

Table 2. The S &T interventions done under the MS practice and the STBF in Barangay 8, Sulongan, Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
TEHNOLOGY CY 2007 2008 CY 2008 - 2009 CY 2009 - 2010
COMPONENT STBF (S&T STBF (S&T STBF (S&T
MS PRACTICE interventions) MS PRACTICE interventions) MS PRACTICE interventions)
1 Fertilization
Basal Application of T14 at Application of dried Application of T14 at 4 Application of DCM Application of T14 Application of DCM at
4 bags per ha; chicken manure bags per ha; DCM at at 7.5 t/ha; at 4 bags per ha; 7.5t/ha;
Processed chicken (DCM) at 7.5 t/ha; 2250kg ha "Bokashi" at 400kg/ DCM at 3500kg/ha
manure (PCM) at "Bokashi" at 400kg/ ha and CRH
800kg/ha ha
Shredded animal Shredded manure,
manures, dried plant dried plant debris,
debris, etc etc ; and CRH
Side dress Application of urea 2 Application of urea 2 Application of T14
bags/ha at 20 -30 bags per ha at 20 -30 at 42 bags per ha
DAP DAP; 21-0-0 at 2 bags/ at 20 -30 DAP
ha
Foliar Application of Nutri- Application of Nutri-
plant at 1L/ha at 60 plant at 1L/ha at 60
DAP DAP
2 Weed Herbicide spraying Manual weeding as Spraying of herbicide Manual weeding as Spraying of Manual weeding as
control / before land needed before land needed herbicide before needed
management preparation at 2L/ha; preparation at 2L/ha; land preparation at
Manual weeding as Manual weeding as 2L/ha; Manual
needed needed weeding as needed
3 Insect pests / Chemical spraying as Biological control- Chemical spraying as Biological control- Chemical spraying Biological control-
management needed spraying of needed spraying of as needed spraying of

Trichoderma sp. as Trichoderma sp. as Trichoderma sp. as
needed needed needed
83
Table 3. Agronomic and yield characteristics of Mindoro I garlic variety.
PARAMETER TECHNICAL DATA

Yield (t/ha) 6.85
Laminar length (cm) 74
Number of cloves per bulb 54
Bulb weight (g) 34.6
Bulb size: Polar diameter (cm) 3.48
Equatorial (cm) 4.41
Bulb color tan
Maturity 127 DAP
Time of planting October 15 - December 15
Purple blotch; Fusarium basal rot;
Pest Resistance Cercosporal leaf spot; Thrips, and Leaf
folder
Pungency Pungent (6.5 mole per g pyruvic acid)
source:Brochure on garlic cultural management updates
after soil samples were gathered from both plots under the MS and the
enhanced practices before the project started and every crop year thereafter.
These were brought to the Soils Laboratory of the Office of the Provincial
Agriculturist (OPAG) in Laoag City for analysis.
2. Agronomic and yield data. Data on the agronomic and yield performance
of the garlic plants in both plots, for every crop year were gathered.
3. Weed and insect pest incidence. Presence, occurrence and prevalence of
weed species and insect pests and diseases in the area were observed and
gathered.
4. Production and financial data. Production costs such as labor and
material and gross income used in each plot every crop year were recorded
and were subjected to cost and return, as well as the partial budget
analyses.
5. Farmers participation and adoption to the STBF project. Lists of
farmers and other participants during the promotional activities conducted in
the STBF project were gathered. Lists of farmer adopters and in the adoption
of the S&T- based farm project were also taken.
Data Processing and Analysis
For the second objective, comparative analysis between the enhanced

technology and the MS practice plots on the agronomic and yield performance
was used. Statistical methods or inferences were used to analyze the results.
Meanwhile, costs, financial /profitability data were computed using cost and
return analysis, as well as partial budget analysis (PCARRD, 2009). The

participation, adoption level, and yield performance of farmer adopters were also
compared under the MS and STBF practices.
Monitoring and Evaluation
The Magsasaka Siyentista managed and supervised the project

operations both under the MS and enhanced practices. The activities and
problems encountered were recorded and reported to the local team for
discussion. Aside from the MS who monitored the day-to-day activities of the
S&T-based farm, close monitoring and periodic field visits were conducted by the
local team involving the FITS manager, focal person/TGP-PMA team leader,
technical expert the technical services specialist and the information services
specialist. The local team conducted a bi-monthly field visit to closely monitor the
project, particularly during the critical growth stages of the crop or peak months
from November to March. The RTGP coordinator, as well as ILARRDEC and
PCAARRD staff likewise periodically monitored and evaluated the project.
During the critical growth stages of the crop or peak months, the local
team also identified problems that emerged. These were then discussed and
immediate solutions were taken. That process created participatoty discussion
among the team members, which paved the way for forwarding
recommendations.
The different R&D management practices and their effects or contributions,

as well as the issues and concerns related to organizational dynamics,
partnership building, resource sharing, problem-solving dynamics, and
technology promotion in facilitating S&T utilization and adoption are presented
and discussed next.
R&D Management Practices
Organizational Dynamics. The organizational dynamics involved the

creation of the local team; selection and evaluation of the MS; and social
mobilization.
Organization and designations of the local team members. The

guidelines set by PCAARRD in 2007 was strictly followed in organizing the local
team to manage the project. The STBF local team members were composed of
staff from host FITS center (Pasuquin-FITS) and CODA as partner member
agency (PMA), and were designated by the ILARRDEC (Table 4). The FITS
center staff were composed of the FITS manager, the MS, the technical service

85
Table 4. The composition of STBF project local team.
DESIGNATION LOCAL TEAM

PMA (CODA)
Team leader Engr. Florendo G. Calamaan
Focal person Engr. Florendo G. Calamaan
Technical expert Dr. Teodorico S. Parbo, Jr.
Fund/Finance officer Ms. Mercy Lucas (CY 2007-2008)
Ms. Victoria Manuel (CY 2008-2011)
FITS Staff (FITS-Pasuquin)
FITS manager Ms. Lilia T. Taylan
Technical services specialist Ms. Lovelita A. Agustin
Information services specialist Ms. Divina V. Laguatan
Magsasaka Siyentista Mr. Onofre G. Balantac
specialist (TSS), and the information service specialist (ISS). On the other hand,
as counter part, the PMA staff included a focal person and the technical expert
and a financial officer.
The local team was responsible in planning or conceptualizing the

proposal submitted to PCARRD through ILARRDEC for approval. Likewise, the
members worked together in assisting the MS during the implementation,
supervision and monitoring of the STBF project based on the terms of reference
(TOR) stipulated in the PCAARRD guidelines.
The Magsasaka Siyentista provided the area for the demonstration farm
(the STBF), labor, facilities, and expertise. Moreover, he directly managed and
supervised the day-to-day project activities or operations. He also assisted in the
baseline information gathering, which is essential in documenting as well as the
project; assisted the implementing team in promoting the organic garlic
production technology via demonstrations, training programs, and field days.
The focal person supervised the establishment of the S&T based farm
(STBF) in cooperation with the Techno Gabay coordinator, PCAARRD,
ILARRDEC, and the MS; conducted regular field visits and prepared
accomplishment reports; participated in the conduct of project planning, review,
and evaluation; documented the MS technologies and experiences and the
project implementation, and assisted in packaging materials, particularly the
translation of their contents to local dialect. Meanwhile, the technical expert and
the TSS provided technical expertise in identifying the package of technology
components; provided technical expertise during training programs, field days
and demonstrations; assisted the project staff during field visits, evaluation of the
S&T based farm, and project monitoring.

Furthermore, the FITS manager assisted in establishing and implementing
the STBF. She also monitored the STBF progress; assisted in preparing project
accomplishment reports, and led in identifying of 30 or more potential POT
adopters.
Similarly, the TSS and the ISS helped in project monitoring and preparing
IEC materials as well as in conducting training programs, and other promotional
activities. On the other hand, the finance officer was responsible in disbursing
funds and in keeping the financial records.
During the inception meeting on March 20, 2007, the local team identified
technology gaps and problems, issues and concerns and then determined
technooptions, which became part of the S&T intervention. Oftentimes, the
TSS, the ISS and the focal person assisted the MS in project implementation and
data gathering, while other agricultural extension workers (AEW) of the LGUs
agricultural office helped mobilize project partners during on-site training
programs, technology promotions, and interviews.
Selection, evaluation, and appointment of MS. Since garlic is the

flagship commodity of Pasuquin-FITS, a search for an MS was conducted. Garlic
farmers who excelled or had exemplary accomplishments were nominated and
endorsed by Pasuquin-FITS to the consurtium for evaluation. The designated
evaluation committee of ILARRDEC which was composed of experts interviewed
and evaluated the MS based on the criteria outlined by PCAARRD. Among the
criteria were the credibility, leadership, performance and accomplishments of the
nominee as a successful garlic producer, such as his/her relatively high
production and income, advanced innovations and sustainable farm practices, as
well as his/her willingness to share technologies and techniques to other farmers.
As a result of the evaluation, Mr. Onofre G. Balantac was chosen as the

MS. His remarkable records and outstanding accomplishments and performance
as manifested by his farming skills and practices, high production level,
leadership capability, and willingness to share his knowledge and skills to other
farmers.
In addition to the aforementioned qualifications, the chosen MS practiced

organic-based farming and served as a resource person during training programs
on garlic production. His training in using and mass producing Vesicular
Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (VAM) and in preparing and producing Trichoderma sp.,
conducted by Phi-Rice, Batac, helped him a lot in his garlic production. In fact,
he produced VAM and Trichoderma sp. and applied them in his garlic farm.
Mobilization of the local team and other stakeholders. After receiving

the designations and special orders of the local team members from their
87
respective appointing heads, they immediately carried out their functions and
responsibilities, more specifically the establishment and implementation of the
STBF and other promotional activities. At first, social mobilization was a
problem. Pasuquin-FITS was really hard up in mobilizing farmers to participate
in the TGP activities, particularly the STBF adoption. As such, the local team
held meetings scheduled bi-monthly, promotional activities such as farmers on-
site training programs on the focus commodity and its production technology
components and related field operations. One significant strategy was that FITS-
Pasuquin involved the farmers, particularly those potential adopters to participate
(which was learning by doing) in some major field STBF operations. Then an
informal gathering was done facilitated by the MS, the TSS, the technical expert
and the PMA team leader/focal person. After the MS explained what and how the
technology should be done, and farmers presented reactions, impressions,
observations, and even suggestions and recommendations. All of which were
documented and processed through participatory approach. Some AEWs of
MAO-Pasuquin were also mobilized in assisting the FITS staff, the PMA
designated staff, and the MS in establishing the STBF, as well as conducting on-
site training programs, technology promotions, and other project activities. The
inherent structure facilitated the involvement of other staff who expanded their
support to the various project activities. They worked hand in hand with the local
team in coordinating with other stakeholders, farmers, and input providers. In
fact, the AEWs have learned to appreciate the project, because they
acknowledge its contributions in enhancing their capability as extension workers.
In addition, a close monitoring approach was undertaken. With the visibility of the
Pasuquin-FITS staff and the PMA in the area, farmers were motivated to
communicate their needs agriculture-related or otherwise.
Another remarkable accomplishment of the local team was the

establishment of an organic garlic growers association. The Pasuquin Garlic
Growers Association (PGGA) was organized in crop year 2008, which served as
a liaison of the Pasuquin-FITS or the local team, particularly when undertaking
activities such as data gathering, field visits, and other promotional activities. As
such, mobilizing and coordinating with farmers through the PGGA was
convenient because almost all members were garlic farmers in the locality and
most of its officers were barangay chairs or council members. The impact of the
association ramified not only with the STBF project and the TGP activities, but
beyond the MAO-Pasuquin projects as well.
The barangay officials of the project locale (Sulungan) were also

mobilized in terms of providing security, preparing the venue for on-site
demonstrations and field days, and providing the needed equipment and tools
for training programs. Mobilizing the barangay officials and folks was somehow
convenient since the MS was then the punong barangay.

Partnership-Building
An inter-agency approach was implemented wherein various partners

and stakeholders were involved in complementing themselves in terms of
needed expertise, skills, as well as material and non-material resources. Several
meetings and consultations were conducted to ensure smooth project operation.
Meetings with the local team. An inception meeting was held on

March 20, 2007 for the local team to define, orient, and discuss their roles and
responsibilities based on the terms of reference (TOR) and other supplementary
guidelines provided by PCARRD. Further, the administrative services as well as
funding and financial flow for the project were discussed. After the discussion,
each member was requested for his/her commitment to support the project. On-
site meetings that operationalized participatory discussion after area visits/
observations were also undertaken to accomodate field observations, problems,
and other concerns related to the STBF project implementation. As part of the
monitoring activities, the local team conducted bi-monthly meetings (a total of 19
major scheduled meetings at the Pasuquin-FITS Center and at the CODA office)
and field visits to monitor the progress of the project operations, discuss
problems encountered, and identify issues and concerns in implementing the
STBF project. Immediate needs of the project were discussed and addressed
immediately during those meetings. In addition, there were some scheduled
meetings and seminars conducted by ILARRDEC and PCAARRD for the local
team or its individual members related to the STBF implementation. Likewise,
PMA hosted quarterly meetings which were scheduled last week of the quarter,
was spearheaded by ILARRDEC through the Regional TGP coordinator and the
consortium director.
MOA Signing. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed by

heads of agencies such as PCAARRD being the funding agency, ILARRDEC as
coordinating body, LGU-Pasuquin as the recipient, and CODA as PMA.
Through MOA, a sense of responsibility among stakeholders was created that
eventually motivated them to implement the STBF project and a working
arrangement was formalized to institutionalize cooperation among stakeholders.
Resource Sharing. Sharing of resources among various stakeholders

was vital in ensuring project success. From the pre-implementation to the
implementation phase, stakeholders shared their unending support in the form of
manpower and financial resources needed in the various activities (Table 5).
In addition, other entities manifested their support by sending resource

persons during technology training, equipment, and the like. Among them is
PhilRice, which trained the MS and some farmer-adopters on VAM and
Trichoderma production. Meanwhile, the BSWM provided shredding machines
89
Table 5. Resource counterparts of the STBF project implementers.
IMPLEMENTER/ STAKEHOLDER RESOURCE - COUNTERPART
DOST-PCARRD Provided financial grant/fund for

project implementation.
Provided capability enhancement
and skills training and seminars.
ILARRDEC Served coordinating body
Provided technology, capability,
and enhancement training
programs.
CODA as Partner Member Agency Provided technical experts,
(PMA) manpower, technical assistance
and other resources.
LGU (Pasuquin- FITS) Shared the expertise of the TGP
staff (FITS Manager, TSS, and
ISS), and needed resources.
Magsasaka Siyentista Supported the FITS Center and
provided the land and labor for the
STBF.
for preparing materials needed in producing organic fertilizer. On the other hand,
the Philippine Computer Center Network donated an LCD projector and a screen.
Requesting of such shredding machines and ICT equipment were facilitated by
the assigned PMA. Moreover, some MMSU and DA-RFU I staff were tapped as
resource persons during training programs and seminars. With the concerted
effort and support of various agencies, the project was able to sustain itself in
meeting its objectives.
Problem-Solving Dynamics
Planning/Inception meeting. The inception meeting was participated

in by the Regional Techno Gabay Program (RTGP) coordinator, ILARRDEC
secretariat, the FITS Pasuquin staff, the Magsasaka Siyentista and the PMA
CODA/focal person and technical expert. The meeting discussed the farmers
existing practices, the technology gaps in garlic production; and the enhanced
technology. In addition, work and financial plan preparation and fund
management strategies; area selection procedures; as well as monitoring and
evaluation activities implementation were done. As a result, the group agreed to
focus on three components: organic fertilizer; mechanical weed control, and bio-
pesticide application as insect pest control.
Organic fertilizer use. Dried chicken manure (DCM), shredded dried

livestock manure, and plant debris, processed bio-fertilizers (PCM), and CRH
were applied before land preparation. The fertilizer rate is based on the soil
analysis results.
Mechanical weed control. The field was plowed and harrowed about a week
after. During growth and development of garlic, weeds were controlled
manually.
Bio-pesticides application as insect pest control. Garlic plants were closely

monitored from 20 DAP up to full-blown bulb development to check the
presence of insect pest. Trichoderma sp. was sprayed on insect pests to
control them.
Problems that emerged during the project implementation such as

limited labor force were addressed by the local team. To remedy the problem on
limited manpower, the team agreed to hire farmer adopters who can help in seed
treatment, planting, mulching, and other activities. Their involvement became a
part of their training in garlic production.
Monitoring and evaluation. The local team closely monitored the

project. Inasmuch as the STBF project team member had other work
assignments, complete attendance during monitoring was impossible. As such,
commitment and involvement were emphasized to the local team members.
Promotional Activities
Technology field day, field visits, educational tours or cross visits, on-
site/hands-on technology training programs or clinics and planting and harvest
festivals were held to promote the enhanced technology to local garlic farmers
Promotional materials such as leaflets, posters, flyers, and tarpaulins were
reproduced and distributed during technology field days and training programs.
Integral to those activities was process documentation which reinforced farmers
feedback in the form of responses, comments, and suggestions.
1. Technology Field Day
A technology field day was conducted at the STBF site on February 4,

2009 when the garlic plants were 90-day old. Most of the participants were
farmers coming from the 18 barangays of Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte (Table 6);
The MS and technical experts presented and discussed the project

results and highlights. In addition, a video on the MS best practices on garlic
production was shown to the participants. Likewise, leaflets/flyers on garlic
production technology, VAM production technology, Bokashi bio-fertilizer
technology, and production of Trichodema sp. and other IEC materials were
distributed to farmers. The operation of the shredder and the CRH technology
was also demonstrated. The MS was also interviewed by DA-ATI about garlic

91
production and was featured in their newsletter. On February 22, 2009, a
harvest festival was also conducted in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
2. On-site techno clinics/trainings (Hands-on training on garlic production

technology
On-site techno-clinics or training programs on the three phases of

organic-based garlic production were conducted in CY 2009-2010 (Table 6).
Table 6. Promotional activities implemented in the STBF on organic
garlic production, Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
ACTIVITY DATE NUMBER FACILITATOR/
CONDUCTED of TRAINOR/
PARTICI- RESOURCE
PANTS SPEAKER
Technology Field Day February 4, 2009 155 FITS-Pasuquin;
(CY 2008-2009), CODA
plant at 90 DAP
Techno-clinics/on-site trainings:
PHASE I - Crop establishment November 10, 2009 26 Magsasaka
(Pre-plant activities such as or- (CY 2009-2010) Siyentista (MS);
ganic fertilizer application, land The local team
preparation, seed preparation
and treatment, mulching and
planting).
PHASE II - Crop care and main- February 03, 2010 24 MS;
tenance (Fertilizer management, (CY 2009-2010) The local team
irrigation, weed management
and insect pest control manage-
ment)
PHASE III - Harvesting and Post- March 03, 2010 20 MS;
harvest activities (Harvesting, (CY 2009-2010) The local team
drying, cleaning, garlic bulb grad-
ing, bundling/packing and stor-
age)
Hands-on technology clinic on November 3, 2008 15 MS the Focal
seed treatment/VAM production (CY 2008-2009) Person and the
and application, fertilizer TSS
application, planting)
Planting festival (Ceremonial November 4, 2008 22 TSS, MS,
planting) of the STBF crop year (CY 2008-2009) Technical Expert,
2; and launching & Focal Person;
demonstration on the operation Local Team
of the Shredder at Brgy 8,
Sulongan, Pasuquin, Ilocos
Norte
Garlic bulb harvesting activities- February 22, 2009 18 MS, FITS-
Crop year 2 (CY 2008-2009) Pasuquin
Major field tour/visit, cross visit, From year 1 to year 15 visits
educational trip and lakbay aral 3 (CY 2007-2008 to
to the STBF (except local team CY 2009-2010)
visits)

In Phase I, crop establishment was disbursed first. This was conducted
during garlic planting on November 10, 2009 with 17 farmers among the 26
participants. The MS discussed the component technologies such as organic
(DCM) fertilizer application, land preparation, garlic cloves preparation and
treatment with VAM, planting, and mulching. The farmer-trainees participated in
some field activities and learned the technologies through their hands-on
experience.
Phase II of the training was conducted on February 3, 2010 with 18

farmers among the 24 participants who came from the different barangays of
Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte. The MS discussed crop care and maintenance including
fertilizer application, irrigation, weed control, and insect pest management.
The last part of the on-site training series was conducted on March 3,
2010, with 20 participants. The MS discussed topics on harvesting and post-
harvest activities such as drying, cleaning, sorting, and storing.
In addition, preparing, producing, and applying of VAM were

demonstrated to the farmers during planting in the STBF. The farmers did the
workshop in both at the STBF and the MS practice plots.
During the STBF planting festival on November 4, 2008, equipment used

in preparing and producing bio-organic fertilizers such as the shredder machine
and the one used in making CRH were demonstrated by the MS. All the said
activities were attended by some Sangguniang Bayan Members and MAO of
LGU-Pasuquin; other FITS centers; ILARRDEC, PMAs like those from CODA;
DA-RFU I; and DA-ATI, and farmers.
3. Field tours and visits
Aside from the farmers in the locality who frequently visited or passed by
the project site, lakbay-aral participants such as farmers, media personnel,
students, officials and employees from government institutions like PCARRD,
ILARRDEC, FITS centers, PMAs R&D Consortia throughout the country among
others visited the STBF. Interviews initiated by print media and TV networks
with the MS and other farmer-adopters facilitated the promotion of organic garlic
production technology. The visit of MMSU students motivated their interest in
garlic production as manifested by their queries about the MS farm practices.
4. Production /reproduction and distribution of IEC promotional materials
Twenty IEC materials on organic garlic production and POT were

developed in various format such as info-bulletins, leaflets, flyers, and tarpaulins
(Table 7). Specifically, more than 2,700 copies of these materials were
93
Table 7. Promotional / IEC materials (related to organic-based garlic production)
produced, reproduced, and distributed to farmers and other prospective
technology users.
PARTICULARS DATA
Total number or kinds of IEC materials 20
Total number of copies produced / 2767
reproduced
Total number of copies distributed 1242
reproduced and 1,242 copies were distributed to beneficiaries during training

programs, on-site techno clinics, technology field days, harvest festivals, and
field visits. These materials are available at the FITS Center in Pasuquin. In
addition, tarpaulins, posters, and different technologies were displayed at the
FITS center.
Effects of Utilizing the S&T Interventions
This section presents the comparison between the MS practice and the
STBF on garlic production in terms of the effects of organic fertilizer to soil
properties, weed incidence, insect- pests incidence, crop productivity, and
profitability. It also highlights the farmers farmers participation and adoption of
the S&T interventions.
Description of the Area. Before the implementation of the project, the

area was assessed and validated by the RTGP coordinator and the local team
based on its accessibility, input providers availability, irrigation water sources,
topography, and cropping pattern, among others.
The area is flat, lowland and rainfed. Basically, the irrigation source is
ground water, which is pumped out from about 6-9m deep shallow tube well
using either diesel-fed or gasoline-fed water pump. Irrigation water is abundant
all year round and the peak of its utilization is from January to March. During the
rainy season, rice and vegetables are grown in the area. During the dry season,
on the other hand, corn, peanut, water melon, vegetables, and garlic. It was
observed that intercropping and relay planting garlic with watermelon, corn
vegetables such as squash, ampalaya and patola are becoming a pattern.
Garlic is also grown as vegetable from September to October. The MS had been
applying mineral amount of organic fertilizer (dry chicken manure) to complement
the inorganic fertilizer in his farm even before the STBF project on garlic
production was set up.
Effects of Fertilizer to Soil Properties
Prior to crop establishment and after every crop year or harvest season,
soil samples were gathered by the local from both MS practice and STBF plots.

Table 8. Soil classification and analysis of the plots under the Magsasaka
Siyentista (MS) practice and the enhanced technlogy on garlic
production, Pasuquin, Ilocos Ilocos Norte.
CROP YEAR SOIL PROPERTY TECHNOLOGY
STBF MS
Soil texture Medium Medium
CY 2007 -2008
(Initial) pH 6.600 6.600
OM, % 1.100 1.100
P, ppm
25880 25.880
K, ppm 536.670 536.670
CY 2008-2009 pH 6.431 6.176
OM, % 1.498 1.465
P, ppm 16.640 43.720
K, ppm 453.720 384.990
CY 2009-2010 pH 6.576 6.647
OM, % 1.881 0.769
P, ppm 75.640 20.830
K, ppm 429.170 582.250
The soil samples were air-dried, and pulverized, and they were brought to the
Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAG) Soil Laboratory in Laoag City for
analysis. It was found that the soil texture in both plots was medium and the soil
pH was neutral (Table 8). The continuous application of organic fertilizer
significantly improved physical and chemical properties of the soil as indicated by
the increasing amount of organic matter (OM).
In crop year 2007-2008, the initial OM in the STBF was low (1.10%),
available P was above the critical level (25.888 ppm), and the exchangeable
potassium content was sufficient (536.67 ppm). As such, the fertilizer
requirement of the soil then was 150-0-0 N-P2 O5-K2O ha-1.
In the next crop year, OM in the STBF increased by 1.5%, however

available P content, and the exchangeable K decreased to 16.64 ppm and
453.720 ppm, respectively. The decline was addressed by increasing the
amount of organic fertilizer. Shredded plant residues and decayed livestock
manure were applied. Hence, the fertilizer recommendation was 150-80-30 N-
P2O5-K2O/ha-1.
In the last crop year, the OM in the STBF further increased by 1.881%, P
by 354%, while exchangeable K content was slightly insufficient. So, the
recommended fertilizer requirement was 150-0-30 N-P2O5-K2O/ha-1.

On the other hand, OM in the MS practice increased by 1.10% after the
first cycle and by 1.465 after the second cycle. The observed OM increased in
the second year could be attributed to the continuous application of dried chicken
manure (DCM). Under the MS practice, 20-30% of DCM was applied as basal
fertilizer to supplement the inorganic fertilizer. However, OM tremendously
declined by 76.9% in the third year. The observed decline could be due to the
flooding and erosion caused by typhoon Pepeng in the onset of the third year of
the project. Meanwhile, available and exchangeable K increased.
Generally, soil texture and properties significantly improved in both the

STBF and the MS plots, but greater improvement was observed in the STBF.
Weed Incidence. Weed incidence in both MS practice and STBF for

three crop years was almost similar (Table 9) .
In crop year 1 (CY 2007-2008), the area used for the STBF was weedy.
Weeds were controlled by plowing the area and then harrowing it approximately
a week after. Dried weeds and organic fertilizer (DCM) applied were plowed
under and further mixed or incorporated into the soil. Weeds recurred in the
STBF at 20-30 DAP and during bulb formation (50-60 DAP). Weed growth was
controlled by manual weeding at 20 DAP and subsequent manual weeding was
done during bulb formation. On the other hand, weed pressure was slighter in
the MS practice. Weeds were controlled by spraying glyphosate herbicide at 2L/
ha a week before planting. It was observed that spraying herbicide is the
prevailing farmers practice to control weeds. They sprayed the area before land
preparation or before planting in the case of zero tillage. In the MS practice,
weeds recurrence was observed at 20-30 DAP and during bulb formation (50-60
DAP). Manual weeding was done twice. The first one was before side dressing
of urea fertilizer at 20 DAP and the second was during bulb formation. Spot hand
weeding was also done twice during irrigation.
The dominant weeds observed in both the STBF and MS set up were
Trianthema portulacastrum (tabtabucol) and Echinochloa colona (dukayang).
Other weed species observed were broad-leaf weeds.
Meanwhile, weed incidence in both MS practice and STBF were fewer

than in the preciding crop year. Manual weeding was done once in the STBF
while twice in the MS plots. The dominant weeds in both plots were Cleome
viscosa L. (tantandok), Echinochloa colona (dukayang) and other broad-leaf
weeds.
Similarly, the same weed pressure and species were observed in both
plots in the last crop year. However, weed growth was faster in the MS plots,

Table 9. Agronomic and yield performance of naturally-grown garlic in the STBF and MS plots for three years, FITS - Pasuquin,
July 2010.
CHARACTE-RISTICS CY 2007-2008 CY 2008-2009 CY 2009-2010 MEAN VALUE
MS STBF MS STBF MS STBF MS STBF

Practice Practice Practice Practice
Plant height(cm) 44.00 44.13 44.48 44.25 40.00 44.85 42.83 44.41
Number of leaves at 10.75 11.00 11.00 11.00 9.33 10.50 10.36 10.83
harvest
Mean bulb weight(g) 24.79 27.40 29.98 29.69 22.87 26.27 25.88 27.79
Mean bulb size 4.38 4.40 4.43 4.45 3.98 4.39 4.26 4.41
(equatorial)(cm)
Bulb class, %
Extra large 19.27 16.95 17.69 16.73 0.00 19.30 12.32 17.66
Large 26.01 27.80 36.82 36.43 34.16 28.32 32.33 30.85
Medium 30.40 30.51 31.05 33.46 36.30 30.97 32.58 31.65
Small 24.32 24.74 14.49 13.38 29.54 21.37 22.77 19.84

Bulb yield(kg) 6080.0 6450.0 7350.0 7396.0 5200.0 6150.0 6210.0 6665.3
97
which consequently affected the growth and development of the garlic plants.
Manual weeding was done twice in both plots.
Insect Pest Incidence. An early outbreak of purple blotch and thrips

occured in the area in the first crop year (CY 2007-2008). The STBF plot was
sprayed with Trichoderma sp. mixed with Aloe vera extract shampoo. This
control measure was supplemented by overhead irrigation or water showering.
Trichoderma sp. was claimed by garlic farmers to be effective in controlling
purple blotch. Likewise, the MS and other farmers in the area as well as other
garlic farmers in adjacent municipalities, claimed that Aloe vera extract shampoo
is effective in controlling thrips. On the other hand, the MS plot, was sprayed
thrice with chemical insecticide mixed with Alovera extract shampoo and
supplemented by overhead irrigation to control thrips. Likewise, fungicide was
sprayed to control purple blotch.
Insect pest infestation during next crop year (CY 2008-2009) in both MS
and STBF plots was not critical. However, the plots were still sprayed to prevent
insect pest built-up. The STBF was sprayed thrice with Trichoderma sp., while
the MS plot was sprayed thrice with chemical insecticide.
In the last crop year (CY 2009-2010), purple blotch was observed in the
later growth stages of garlic (86-100 DAP) both in the MS and the STBF plots.
The STBF plot was sprayed with Trichoderma sp. twice. However, the MS
practice plot was not sprayed, which resulted in curled leaves and stunted growth
of the garlic plants.
Agronomic and yield performance
Plants in the STBF plots had slightly taller and more leaves at harvest
than those in the MS plots. (Table 10). However, higher variation was observed
in terms of bulb weight, size, and yield (Fig. 2). In terms of bulb class, garlic
grown in the STBF plots exhibited more superior than those in the MS plot.
The number of leaves of garlic plants is related to its age and plant
maturity. Normally, garlic is fully matured when it has 10 to11 leaves and at this
stage it bears flowers. The garlic plants that had lesser leaves under the MS
plots did not reach their full maturity particularly in the last crop year. This could
be attributed to the thrips and purple blotch infestation in the later stage of the
garlic plants which led to forced harvesting. The abrupt change in ambient
temperature in February and March 2010 contributed to the pest infestation,
which affected crop growth. The ambient temperature was 31.0oC in February
and 32.6oC in March (PAGASA). In addition, the flooding and erosion in the area
caused lower bulb weight (22.87 g), smaller bulb size (3.98 cm) with no extra
large size of bulb produced, and eventually lower yield (5200kg).

Table 10. Agronomic and yield performance of organically-grown garlic in the STBF and MS plots for three years, FITS -
Pasuquin, July 2010.
CHARACTE-RISTICS CY 2007-2008 CY 2008-2009 CY 2009-2010 MEAN VALUE
MS STBF MS STBF MS STBF MS STBF
Practice Practice Practice Practice
Plant height(cm)
44.00 44.13 44.48 44.25 40.00 44.85 42.83 44.41
Number of leaves at
harvest 10.75 11.00 11.00 11.00 9.33 10.50 10.36 10.83
Mean bulb weight(g)

24.79 27.40 29.98 29.69 22.87 26.27 25.88 27.79
Mean bulb size

(equatorial)(cm) 4.38 4.40 4.43 4.45 3.98 4.39 4.26 4.41
Bulb class, %
Extra large 19.27 16.95 17.69 16.73 0.00 19.30 12.32 17.66
Large
26.01 27.80 36.82 36.43 34.16 28.32 32.33 30.85
Medium 30.40 30.51 31.05 33.46 36.30 30.97 32.58 31.65
Small
24.32 24.74 14.49 13.38 29.54 21.37 22.77 19.84
Bulb yield(kg)
6080.0 6450.0 7350.0 7396.0 5200.0 6150.0 6210.0 6665.3

99
Generally, more extra large size and fewer small size garlic bulbs were
produced in the STBF plots than in the MS plots. As a result, higher yield was
obtained in the STBF across the three crop years than in the MS farm (Figure 2).
Productivity and Profitability Analysis
The total production cost incurred in the STBF (PhP107,340.00ha) was

lower by 5.14% than that in the MS practice (PhP113.346.68/ha). Primarily, land
preparation and planting after mulching incurred the highest labor cost in the
STBF. In terms of the total material cost, in STBF (PhP57,738..39/ha) was lower
by 9.79% than that of the MS practice (PhP64,002.12/ha). That was brought
about by the S&T intervention, which utilized organic fertilizer (Table 11).
On the whole, the STBF obtained a net income of PhP287.252.07 and a

return on investment (ROI) of 265.78%. On the other hand, the MS practice had
a net income of PhP249,153.32/ha with an ROI of 220.18. Moreover, results of
the partial budget analysis showed a net change in income of PhP25,131.20/ha,
PhP14,830.00/ha, and PhP74,335.00/ha for the first, second, and third year of
the project, respectively, in favor of the STBF over that of the MS practice (Table
12). The higher profitability obtained in the STBF was mainly attributed to the
yield increase (7.33%) and the reduced production costs due to the use of
organic fertilizers and other S&T interventions. As such, the STBF had an
average net change in income of PhP38,098.73/ha (15.29%).
Farmers Participation in the S&T interventions
The farmers level of participation in the S&T interventions, such as the

use of organic fertilizer, weed control, and organic- based pesticide were

Table 11. Profitability analysis of the STBF by year.
YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 MEAN PERCE

(CY 2007-2008) (CY 2008-2009) (CY 2009-2010) NT
INCREA
ITEMS MS STBF MS STBF MS STBF MS STBF SE/
Practice Practice Practice Practice DECRE
ASE
7.33
Garlic bulb yield(kg) 6,080.00 6,450.00 7,350.00 7,396.00 5,200.00 6,150.00 6,210.00 6,665.33
8.90
Gross income(PhP)* 304,000.00 322,500.00 367,500.00 369,800.00 416,000.00 492,000.00 362,500.00 394,766.67
5.14
Total Production Cost(PhP) 113,971.20 107,340.00 114,478.00 101,948.00 111,590.83 113,255.81 113,346.68 107,514.60
0.87
Total Labor Cost(PhP) 48,400.00 48,600.00 50,700.00 46,700.00 48,933.67 54,028.65 49,344.56 49776.22
9.79
Total Material Cost(PhP) 65,571.20 58,740.00 63,778.00 55,248.00 62,657.15 59,227.16 64,002.12 57,738.39
15.29
Net Income(PhP) 190,028.80 215,160.00 253,022.00 267,852.00 304,409.18 378,744.19 249,153.32 287,252.07
20.75
ROI(%) 166.73 200.45 221.02 262.73 272.79 334.42 220.18 265.87
12.43
Cost of Production(kg) 18.74 16.64 15.58 13.78 21.46 18.42 18.59 16.28
* - Year 1 : garlic bulb farmgate price =PhP50/kg (April 2008)

Year 2: dried garlic bulb at P50 /kg(March 2009)
Year 3: garlic bulb farmgate price =PhP 80/kg (April 2010)
Table 12. Partial budget analysis of the STBF on garlic production vs MS practice, for three crop years (2007-2008; 2008-2009, and 2009-2010.) in Brgy. 8 Sulongan, Pasuquin, Ilocos
Norte.
102
A. INCOME REDUCING B. INCOME INCREASING
Added Cost (PhP) 1st year 2nd year 3rd year Average Added Returns (PhP) 1st year 2nd year 3rd year Average
Land preparation 6,000 0.00 0.00 2,000 Yield increase * (370 kg) (46 kg) (950 kg) (455.33 kg)
Planting 3,600 0.00 0.00 1,200 At Price per kg of (P50/kg) (P50/kg) (P80/kg)
Seed Treatment & preparation 0.00 0.00 47.63 15.88 18,500.00 2,300.00 76,000.00 32,266.67
Fertilizer Application 0.00 0.00 1,428.60 476.20
Weeding (manual) 0.00 1,600.00 1,333.33 977.78
Biological /Pest control (spraying) 0.00 1,200.00 428.57 542.86
Harvesting 0.00 0.00 1,523.81 507.94
Drying, Cleaning, Sorting & 200.00 0.00 1,142.90 447.63
Bundling
Trichoderma sp. 0.00 360 400 253.33
9,800.00 3,160.00 6,304.84 6,421.61
Reduced Returns (PhP) Reduced Costs (PhP)

nil nil nil 0.00 Mulching 2,400.00 0.00 0.00 800.00
Fertilizer application / mgt 2,400.00 2,800.00 1,496.66 2,232.22
Weed Mgt /Herbicide 1,200.00 1,000.00 667.00 955.67
spraying
Pest control mgt 3,600.00 3,000.00 0.00 2,200.00
Fertilizer 2,300.00 3,890.00 0.00 2,063.33
Insecticides/chemicals 2,240.00 2,800.00 0.00 1680.00
Herbicide 2,120.00 2,200.00 2,333.33 2,217.78
Fungicide 171.2 0.00 0.00 57.07
Irrigation 0.00 0.00 142.86 47.62
16,431.20 15,690.00 4,639.85 12,253.68
Total A = 9,800.00 3,160.00 6,304.84 6,421.61 Total B = 34,931.20 17,990.00 80,639.85 44,520.35
Net Change in Income 25,131.20 14,830.00 74,335.00 38,098.73
(B - A) =
* - Year 1 : Garlic bulb farmgate price =PhP50 per kg (April 2008) Year 2: Dried garlic bulb at P50 /kg ave price (March 2009)
Year 3: Garlic bulb farmgate price =PhP 80 per kg, (April, 2010) Cost per unit of inputs and labor rates are reflected in the cost and return analysis
determined. Farmers who visited the project, participated in the on-site techno-
clinics/training programs, technology field day, and other activities undertaken
were identified and interviewed.
In the first crop year (CY 2007-2008), 15 farmers, who participated in the
project activities expressed their intention to adopt the enhanced technology on
organic-based garlic production, planting, applying bio-fertilizer, producing VAM,
and harvesting.
In the second crop year (CY 2008-2009), the number of technology-

adopters increased to 30 farmers, but they using modified some practices like
side dressing inorganic fertilizer, herbicide (glyphosate) before crop
establishment and relying on chemical insecticides.
During the third crop year 3, (CY 2009-2010), the number of adopters
continued to increased with 123 farmers. Some of these farmers were able to
get involved in training programs conducted in the project site, technology field
days, and STBF visits. Through those activities, they were able to learn the
adverse effects using chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Hence, the increase in
the number of adopters could be attributed to the promotional activities
conducted such as technology field day, field cross visits, and on-site techno-
clinics/training programs.
Out of the 123 farmer participants, 39 farmers (31.70%) were

considered as full adopters. Meanwhile, 15 (12.2%) of them followed the nutrient,
weed control, and insect pest management practices and 24 (19.5%) exclusively
followed the first two management practices but not the third. In addition, 84
farmers (68.3%) modified the enhanced technology (Tables 13 &14).
Under nutrient fertilizer management, majority of the farmers (64 or 52%)

almost half (59 or 48%) used organic fertilizers, while combined organic fertilizer
such as DCM, and inorganic fertilizers. Some farmers combined DCM with
decayed livestock manure, corn stalks, and other crop residues. Moreover, two
farmers in Brgy Carusipan used decomposted tobacco stalks as bio-fertilizer and
as bio-pesticide while four farmers in Brgy Sulongan and one farmer in Brgy
Pragata used Bokashi as bio-fertilizer. The organic fertilizers were basally
applied during planting.
In terms of weed management, 77 farmers (62.6%) did manual weeding

and 12 (9.8%) sprayed herbicides. Meanwhile, 34 (27.6%) of them practiced
manual weeding and sprayed herbicide. Glyphosate herbicide was sprayed
before land preparation.

103
Table 13. Farmers participation in the S&T interventions, Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
PARTICULARS NUMBER MUNICIPAL TOTAL NO.

DATA OF
ADOPTER %
Total barangays covered 19 67.9
Total farmers adopted (full 123 15.4
and partial adoption) the S&T
interventions
Full adopters* 39 31.7
Partial adopters 84 12.2
Farmers adopting /practicing
the following:
c.1. Fertilizer Management
Organic fertilizer 64 52
Combination of OF and IF** 59 48
c.2. Weed Management
Manual weeding 77 62.6
Herbicide and manual 34 27.6
weeding
Herbicide 12 9.8
c.3.Pest Management
Chemical pesticide 51 40.6
Biopesticide 26 21.1
No spraying 35 28.5
Total area planted 52.19 10.43 19.5
(organically grown), ha
* -F/W/IP - means adopted organic farming in terms of fertilizer application, weed control
and insect pests management
F/W/NS means adopted organic farming in terms fertilizer application and weed control and
no spraying or no insect pest s control involved.
OF Organic fertilizer / IF Inorganic fertilizer
Table 14. The farmers adoption of organic garlic production by crop year.
CROP YEAR NUMBER OF AREA NUMBER OF
FARMER- PLANTED, BARANGAYS
ADOPTERS Hectare(%) (%)
CY 2007-2008 15 1 (3.57%)
CY 2008-2009 30 2 (7.14%)
CY 2009-2010 123 (but only 39 are 52.19 19 (67.88%)
considered full adopters (10.43%)
on the technology)
CY 2010-2011 36 (full adopters) 20 (71.43%)
CY 2011-2012 123 87.5 24 (85.71%)
(17.50%)

In order to control garlic pests, almost half (51 or 40.6%) farmers
sprayed chemical pesticide. On the other hand, 26 farmers (21.1%) used
organic/bio-pesticide while the rest (28.5%) did not spray at all. Twenty farmers
from Brgy Sulongan used Trichoderma sp. to control garlic purple blotch; 16
farmers used Aloe vera extract shampoo against thrips; and 14 farmers used
chemical insecticides when the pest infestation was at critical level. Likewise,
one farmer in Brgy Nalvo and another one in Brgy Carusikis used bark extract
from kalumay tree (tebak) for controlling garlic pests. There were also 38
farmers, mostly from Brgy Sulongan and San Isidro, who used Vesicular
Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (VAM) as inoculant to garlic cloves before planting. The
MS was trained in VAM technology and he produced VAM himself for his own
garlic farm. He learned this technology from a training conducted by PhilRice
and shared it to other garlic farmers during the first year of the project.
Results further showed that after three years of the STBF a big majority
(19 or 67.9%) of the garlic producing barangays in Pasuquin adopted organic
fertilizer in garlic farming. Specifically, 123 (15.4%) farmers fully adopted or
modified organic farming. In terms of area planted with garlic, 52.19 ha was
under the organic farming. That area is a little bit more than 10% of the total
hectarage planted with garlic in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
Recorded garlic yield level of farmer adopters
The garlic yield of the STBF and that of the farmer-adopters was also
compared (Table 15). The STBF had higher yield than the organic- based and
inorganic farms. However, out of the 36 organic-based farms, three
outperformed the STBF. These farms were applied with organic fertilizers several
Table 15. Comparative garlic yield performance of the STBF with that of the
other farmers
/PARTICULARS / TECHNOLOGY Yield/ha % increase/
decrease from
STBF
Enhanced Technology (STBF) 6.665*
MS Practice 6.210* (6.83)
Comparative farmers
Organic-based garlic farms 5.417** (18.72)
Inorganic 4.878** (26.82)
Average yield of the three organic farms
7.621** 14.34
that surpassed the STBF

105
years before the project started. Likewise, the farmer-owners have undergone
series of training programs on organic farming and completed farmers field
school on organic garlic production. Further, with the continuous utilization of
organic fertilizers, the soil condition has improved through time. Although the
farmers were trained on garlic production, they still considered the enhanced
technology relatively new.
CONCLUSIONS
Based on the results of the project, the following conclusions are drawn:
The continuous application of organic fertilizers such as DCM, decomposted

livestock wastes, plant residues, and other organic materials in both STBF
and MS plots increased the organic matter (OM) content of the soil.
The use of the enhanced technology, which includes the application of

organic fertilizer, chemical-free weed control method, and insect pest
management, practices reduced production cost by 5.2% and increased yield
by 7.34%.
Based on the partial budget analysis, net income increased by 15.29%

(PhP38,098.73/ha) on the enhanced technology over that of the farmers
practice.
The STBF concept coupled with the conduct of technology field day, on-site
training programs, field tours and cross-field visits, demonstration of other
cost-effective and efficient technologies, and distribution of IEC materials is
an effective science-based technology promotion strategy, which created
awareness and widened knowledge of farmers on organic garlic farming
production.
The enhanced technology is highly acceptable to the MS and other farmers,
as manifested their feedbacks and the increasing by number of organic garlic
farmer-adopters.
The establishment of the STBF project ushered in better and stronger ties
and strengthened the relationships among garlic farmers, particularly with the
establishment of the Garlic Producers Association in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
Through the said organization, actively exchange and openly share their
ideas and farming experiences, and altogether now improve their farming
skills and knowledge, which further increase their garlic production.

RECOMMENDATIONS
In enhancing the marketability of garlic, value-adding activities should be
undertaken specifically on product processing, packaging, and labelling.
Additionally, the members of the Pasuquin Garlic Growers Association

should apply for accreditation as organic garlic producers to sustain the
quality of their products, which could become a trademark of Pasuquin,
Ilocos Norte.
REFERENCES
CPAR. (2006). Brochure on Garlic Cultural Management Updates. Community-

based Participatory Action Research (CPAR) program. Bureau of
Agricultural Research, Department of Agriculture.
http://e.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pasuquin_Ilocos.
LGU-Pasuquin. (2007). Annual Report, Municipal Agricultural Office, Local Gov-

ernment Unit (LGU) of Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
OPAG (Office of the Provincial Agriculturist ) - Soils Laboratory Services.

(2011). Analysis of soil samples from 2007 to 2010 cropping sea-
sons. Laoag City
PAGASA-MMSU.(2009). Climatic Data of Ilocos Norte. PAGASA, Mariano Mar-

cos State University, Batac City, Ilocos Norte.
PCARRD. (2008). Financial Analysis of S&T- based Farms and Investment Pack-
ages: A Practitioners Guide Book. First ed. Philippine Council for
Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Develop-
ment (PCARRD), Department of Science and Technology (DOST),
Los Banos. 2008. 68p.
PCARRD. (2007). Policies and Guidelines on the Establishment of S&T-based

Farms, Techno-Gabay Program. Philippine Council for Agriculture,
Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development
(PCARRD), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Los
Banos, 2008.

Organic Tomato Production
in Alaminos City:
The Case of MS Jaime Navarro
Wilhelmina Castaneda, Consuelo Belarmino,

Mary Anne Rarogal
INTRODUCTION
The City of Alaminos is a center of trade and commerce and one of the
tourist spots in Western Pangasinan. It is a fast-growing city with a great potential
for agri-industrialization. It is also blessed with a vast tract of fertile lands suited
for producing High Value Commercial Crops (HVCC).
The popularized organic or natural farming methods and practices are

considered as an alternative productivity mode over conventional agriculture.
Organic farming principles are in accord with the laws of nature and reinforce the
idea that the soil should grow a healthy crop.
The high cost of pesticides and inorganic fertilizers commonly results in

low income of farmers and their indiscriminate use, destroys or pollutes the
environment. Thus, the introduction of organically-grown tomato in the traditional
cropping pattern may likely boost the potential income of farmers. Marketability of
this kind of crop is not a problem because people of Alaminos are still importing
tomatoes from neighboring towns and from Cagayan Valley.
Tomatoes had an annual average growth rate of 2.337 in the Philippines

from 1998-2002. Based on average production from 1998 to 2002, the major
producers of tomato in the Philippines include Pangasinan (22,811.40 tons),
Budkidnon (17,297.20 tons), Ilocos Norte (14, 489.40 tons), Iloilo (10,476.80
tons), Ilocos Sur (10,001.20 tons), and Nueva Ecija (7,900 tons). Tomatoes are
considered as a hot weather crop because they like heat and humidity. They also
need light, fertile soil with lot of organic matter; however, too much nitrogen can
reduce tomato yield (http://www.scribd.com/doc/101615157/Growing-Tomatoes-
in-the-Philippines, Retrieved August 18, 2013).
The development of the Science and Technology-Based Tomato farm is

not merely for profit but for an environmentally-sound and socially-justified

109
agriculture system as well. This scheme provides prospective adopters such as
farmers, entrepreneurs, and other clients an opportunity to adopt appropriate
technology for organic tomato production and to access high quality and safe
crop in the food market.
Scope of the Project The STBF on tomato production was conducted

from CY December 2007 to December 2010. Mr. Jaime Navarro, Magsasaka
Siyentista (MS) established five cycles for the naturally-grown tomato. He strictly
followed the technology intervention for the STBF and MS practice especially in
fertilizer management across all cycles. There was a variation on the variety
used. MMSU F1 was used during the first cycle and Diamante for the second
cycles to the fifth.
During the first cycle, the STBF was successfully implemented. This
was due to favorable weather and environment, which ensured the growth and
development of the tomato plants, thus resulting in high yield. However, the
project failed during the second cycle (August 2008 November 2008), and third
cycle (November 2009- January 24, 2010). During the second cycle, the plants
were destroyed at early fruiting stage by typhoon Queenie due to the continuous
heavy rains and strong winds for almost a week followed by extreme heat of the
sun. This caused the wilting and eventually death of the tomato plants. The third
cycle failed as well due to long drought and unusual strong winds in the site
during the vegetative stage of the plants.
From Brgy.Tawin-tawin, where the MS farm was located, the STBF site
was transferred to MVC Techno Demo Farm, in Brgy. Tangcarang, for the fourth
and fifth cycles. The techno demo farm has year-round irrigation and windbreaks.
The fourth cycles, which run from Jan. 22, 2010 to May 14, 2010,
experienced the effects of climate change as manifested by a very warm
environment, which caused the cupping of leaves. Although, irrigation was done
twice a week, the need for moisture was not compensated due to excessive heat.
During this period, the locality experienced a long drought season. Despite the
uncertain weather condition, the tomato plants still survived and the STBF had
higher yield than that of the MS practice.
The MS implemented the fifth cycle from June to October 2010. The
tomato crops showed vigorous and healthy seedlings although during flowering
stage, some flowers were aborted because of heavy rains and strong winds. The
interventions applied were the same as those of the previous cycles.
Significance of the project. The S&T farm was established to

showcase the production of tomato using organic materials (processed chicken
manure, fermented oysters shells, fish amino acids, fermented fruit juice, and
indigenous microorganisms) to rebuild and preserve soil productivity. Likewise,

applying organic fertilizer maintained good soil texture, soil moisture, and
microbial conditions that could nurture plant life through constant recycling and
parenting. Thus, the nutrient content of the soil was improved, instead of being
depleted after each cropping season. In addition, this approach eliminated the
need for chemical pesticides. The use of organic pesticides formulated from
locally-available materials had no adverse effects on the environment. Hence,
they posed no hazard to both the environment and the consumers. Because of
this, tomato growers benefited significantly through their adoption of the S&T
interventions that led to their increased production and subsequently income.
Objectives
There were two major objectives of the S & T Based Farm in Tomato
Production. These are to:
1. Explore the potentials of the R&D management practices that facilitate S&T
intervention and utilization in organic tomato production, by:
Identifying the contributions of resource-sharing, partnership-building,
technology promotion, organizational dynamics, and problem solving
dynamics that facilitate S&T intervention utilization and adoption and
production; and
Pinpointing the issues/concerns related to resource sharing, partnership
building, technology promotion, organizational dynamics, and problem-
solving dynamics in S&T interventions utilization and adoption in organic-
based tomato; and
2. Determine the effects of utilizing S&T interventions in organic tomato, by:
Comparing the yield between the MS practice and S&T interventions in
tomato production; ; and
Comparing the income from tomato production utilizing MS practice and
S&T interventions.
METHODOLOGY
Project Site. Agricultural development is a challenge in the City of

Alaminos. Close to 80% of their lands are arable, and yet self-sufficient only in
rice. Two thirds of the households are into farming, but three fourths of the lands
they till are rainfed. Therefore most of them are poor.
For the first time in years, the City Government is appropriating a big
chunk of their development budget for agriculture. They have an innovative
program, called Ocho-Ocho, named after a popular song of the same title, which
clusters small landholdings into farm management and enterprise units of eight
hectares each. This is an integrated, people-oriented agricultural development
and modernization program of the City Government of Alaminos, Pangasinan
(http://www.alaminoscity.gov.ph/thecity/mayorsmessage.aspx, Retrieved August
111
30, 2013). The STBF on Tomato Production was established in the farm of MS
Jaime Navarro in Brgy. Tawin-tawin, Alaminos City.
Data Gathering Procedure. Observation and process documentation

were extensively done to collect the needed data. Yield data between the MS
and enhanced technology were gathered by the MS with the assistance of the
FITS staff. Observations of the participants during field days were solicited
through a questionnaire.
Data Processing and Analysis. Process documentation was done to

assess the contributions, issues, and concerns of the R&D management
practices in the implementing the STBF, specifically, in terms of the experiences
of the local team in resource-sharing, partnership-building, technology promotion,
organizational dynamics, and problem solving that facilitated the utilization and
adoption of the S&T intervention in table tomato production. Production yields
and incomes were the major variables measured between the enhanced
technology and the MS practices. The Partial Budget Analysis was used to
assess the economic viability of the interventions/component technologies
applied in the enhanced practice vis-a-vis the MS practice. The following steps
were undertaken for the partial budget analysis:
1. Described the S&T based interventions/component technologies

considered. In the project, the interventions that included component
technologies in seed sowing, potting, planting, applying fertilizer and
managing insects and pests.
2. Listed and quantified the gains and losses resulting in the application of
the interventions/components technologies. Losses were classified into:
a) added costs or expenses incurred in adopting the intervention (A); b)
income reduced/forgone as a result of the adoption of the intervention
(B). Meanwhile, gains were classified into: a) costs saved/reduced that
were incurred in the farming practice (C); and b) added income received
from the intervention (D).
3. Calculated/Computed the change in farm profit; total gains minus total
losses. This was done by: adding costs saved/reduced plus added
income (A+B) and adding costs plus income reduced (C+D) then
deducting (C+D) from (A+ B). If total gains were greater than total
losses, then the intervention was considered profitable; otherwise, the
intervention was not profitable.
4. Identified and listed the non-pecuniary or non-monetary factors that
influenced the decision on whether or not the intervention/component
technologies could be implemented.
The Partial Budget Analysis was applied in all the five cycles of the
STBF for Tomato Production.


Facilitate Utilization and Adoption on S&T Interventions on Tomato
Production
Organizational dynamics refers to the management practices involved in
the selection of the local team, selection and evaluation of the MS, and
mobilization of the local team in implementing the STBF. All activities and
guidelines emanated from PCAARRD were discussed first by the Techno Gabay
(TG) Regional Coordinator to the PMA team leaders, FITS Center Managers,
and MS prior to project implementation for their comments and suggestions.
Selection of the local team. The PCARRD guidelines on the STBF

establishment prescribed the composition of a local team. This is composed of
the FITS Center Manager, and MS from the host FITS Center; the technical
experts on tomato production, and focal person from DA-1 as the PMA. The
team was presented to the RRDCC for approval. In addition to the prescribed
staff composition of the local team, other staff from the FITS Center and the PMA
were included like the Information Services Specialist (ISS) and Technology
Services Specialist (TSS) from the FITS Center.
Since the ISS and TSS were part of the TGP Management Team in the
FITS Centers, they could readily assist and help the FITS Center Manager in
implementing the STBF activities. It was observed that the ISS and TSS had
more direct contact with the MS as compared to the FITS Manager. This was so,
because the manager was also the Municipal/City Agriculturist or the Municipal
Agriculture Officer. Given the responsibility of the Municipal/City Agriculture
Office, the manager could not fully give his time in the implementing the project.
Apparently, the ISS and TSS had more time to conduct field monitoring than that
of the Manager.
For the PMA counterpart, a focal person specifically for the STBF was also
assigned. An alter-ego of the PMA was assigned by the PMA team leader in the
absence of the focal person.
Selection and evaluation of the MS. Prior to the STBF establishment, the
MS was selected and evaluated based on the criteria provided by PCARRD. The
City Agriculture Office scouted and selected the MS. In the implementing the
STBF, the MS was further evaluated by the PMA team leader in coordination with
the FITS center staff and the Regional TG coordinator in terms of his

113
Mr. Jaime Navarro was chosen as MS because of his leadership ability,
high production on rice and vegetables, and capability to share his technologies
to other farmers. Likewise, he is an organic farming advocate, having used
different fermented organic fertilizers and botanical pesticides in his vegetable
farm especially in producing tomato. Likewise, he was chosen because he
chaired the City and Fishery Council and he was an Outstanding Farmer of the
City.
Mobilization of the local team. The ILIARC Center Chief served as the
PMA focal person. Meanwhile, the FITS Center staff were designated by the City
Government of Alaminos. Time and commitment are two important resources
that can affect the successful implementation of a project. Likewise, full support
of the City Government immensely contributed in implementing and realizing the
project objectives.
B. Partnership - Building
A partnership is an arrangement in which parties agree to cooperate in

advancing their mutual interests (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Partnership,
Retrieved September 8, 2013). The STBF is a project of partnership. As
partners, the various actors are expected to perform their roles in the
implementation of the project.
As an R&D management practice, partnership-building was documented

in the STBF implementation. This includes meeting with the local team and FITS
center staff, and MOA signing.
initiated by ILARRDEC. The meeting identified, oriented, and finalized the
responsibilities of the local team. Likewise, it accommodated some concerns in
implementing the project. additionally, issues were addressed during the
meeting. The terms of reference (TOR) provided by PCARRD was discussed to
delineate the roles of each member.
The MS was the direct implementer of the S&T interventions, however,

these were directly supervised by the FITS ISS and TSS particularly on the
compliance to the S&T interventions as prescribed in the approved proposal.
On the other hand, the technical expert guided the MS in the grounding of the
specific S&T interventions. Meanwhile, the focal person led the local team with
the assistance of the STBF focal person.
After internalizing their roles and their commitment taken, the local team
set them to work. Meeting with the FITS Center staff was conducted and
spearheaded by the City Government Unit of Alaminos until the proposal was

thoroughly deliberated upon and eventually submitted to ILARRDEC for funding
by PCAARRD.
MOA Signing. As a requirement in implementing the STBF, a

stakeholders to formalize the involvement of all key partners. The MOA was
given by PCAARRD, spelled out the role of the funding agency, PCARRD-
ILARRDEC, City Government of Alaminos, and Department of Agriculture-1.
Creating a sense of responsibility through the MOA motivated all the
stakeholders to bring their best in implementing the project. The, formality of
their duties and responsibilities ensured the bond of cooperation between and
among the stakeholders.
C. Resource-Sharing
Resource sharing or counter-parting refers to a management practice

where in various stakeholders contribute and commit their resources, both
material or non-material, in implementing a program/project. Resource sharing
eliminates the dole-out tendency in project implementation and strengthens the
commitment of the stakeholders in the project. With this strategy, partners feel
that they are part of the success and/or failure of the project (Alimbuyuguen, et,
al, 2010).
Resource sharing among stakeholders. The availability of financial

resources normally influences the direction of a project. Since the STBF was
funded by the DOST-PCARRD, financial resources have never been a
constraint. However, the implementers and the beneficiaries still need to share
resources like manpower to ensure smooth project implementation.
Resource sharing or counter-parting was evident among the

stakeholders as they implemented the STBF on Tomato Production. This was
even stipulated in the MOA, which was forged among the DOST-PCARRD, DA-
1, Alaminos City Government and MS (Table 1). Although there was a budget
appropriated for the project, this was not spared from the problems usually
brought forth by the bureaucratic procedures in accessing funds. The too rigid
procedures, meaning no flexibility and exemptions, delayed the procurement of
needed equipment and farm supplies. It should be noted that farming activities
cannot always be programmed since these are also subject to changes in the
agro-climatic conditions and environmental factors which are beyond the control
of the farmer-and project-implementers.

115
Table 1. Resources shared by the STBF implementers.
IMPLEMENTERS RESOURCE - COUNTERPART
DOST-PCARRD Fund grant for project implementation.
Department of Agriculture-1 Technical expertise, manpower, and
other resources.
Alaminos FITS Center/ FITS Center staff (FITS Manager, TSS,
City Government of Alaminos and ISS), and other resources.
MS Jaime Navarro Land labor for the STBF and the FITS
Center.
Problems are inevitable in any organization or project, because they

should be solved to achieve the project goals.
Problems were addressed via the conduct of meetings, and monitoring

activities. Those meetings involved the FITS Center Staff specifically, Manager,
ISS TSS, MS and PMA Team from DA-1 including the focal person and technical
expert.
Meeting. Problems on the flexibility and delay of procurement were

resolved. In fact, the MS used his resources in order to implement the activities
as planned. Financial resources used were reimbursed after the fund was
downloaded by PCAARRD to DA-RFO 1.
Specific concerns on establishing the STBF in MS Jaime Navarros farm

were tackled such as the implementing guidelines and the methodology in
implementing the STBF.
Table 2 presents the MS practices and the S&T interventions for the
STBF project as agreed and finalized during the inception meeting. Technologies
showcased in the S&T interventions were based on the availability of resources
in the area.
Monitoring and Evaluation. Close monitoring of the project was done

by the TSS, ISS and FITS Manager during the critical stages of the crop.
Problems encountered were documented and reported. Specifically, the focal
persons and the PMA team of ILIARC monitored and evaluated the STBF
project. Meanwhile, the MS implemented, monitored, recorded, and documented
the different interventions. Through frequent field monitoring and evaluation,
problems encountered like typhoon occurrence were resolved.

Table 2. Technology components and activities in the organic tomato
production.
COMPONENT MS PRACTICE MS ENHANCED

TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY
a. Variety MMSU F1 / Dia- MMSU F1 / Diamante

mante
b. Seed sowing Used seedboxes Used of seedling trays

Directly sowed Soaked seeds in lukewarm
seeds in seedbox water for 2 hrs.
c. Potting medium Used equal parts of Used equal parts of coco

compost and coir, compost and garden
garden soil soil.
Drenched Sterilized potting medium
insecticide/ fungicide
d. Method of Used furrow method Elevated plots 1.0 m wide
Establishment Used plastic mulch
e. Distance of 0.5 m x 0.5 m 1m x 0.75 m

planting single method double row/zigzag method
f. Fertilizer no PCM Used PCM at the rate of 1

application 5DAT drenched kg/sq.m as basal
basal organic Calcium Nitrate with 10 DAT - drenched of fer-
fertilizer a ratio of 3 tbsp per mented Oyster Shells
16 liters of water (CALPHOS) with a ratio of
and at a rate of 1 32 tbsp CALPHOS per 16
small can of solu- liters of water and at the rate
tion per hill. of 1 small can (sardine) per
hill
10 DAT drenched 23 DAT drenched Fish
46-0-0 with a mix- Amino Acid (FAA) at a ratio
ture of 1 small can of 2 tbsp per liter of water
urea to 16 liters of and at the rate of 1 small
water, drench 1 can (sardine) per hill.
small can sardines 38, 53, 67 & 88 DAT
per hill. drenched a combination of
At 20, 34, 48, 62 & Fermented Plant Juice
76 DAT; drenching (FPJ), Fish Amino Acid
the mixture of 46-0-0 (FAA) and Indigenous Micro-
& 14-14-14 organism (IMO) with a mix-
ture of 1 small can sardines
to 16 liters of water
g. Insect Pest Used chemical pes- Used bio-pesticide & bio-
and Disease ticide/ fungicide fungicide
Management

117
The project was not successfully implemented during the second cycle
(August 2008 November 2008) and the third cycle (November 2009- January
24, 2010). The plants during the second cycle were destroyed at early fruiting
stage by typhoon Queenie, which brought in continuous heavy rains and strong
winds for almost one week. After that, the weather become extremely hot and
humid. This caused the wilting of the tomato plants; and then eventually, they
died. Further, the third cycle failed as well due to long drought and unusual
strong winds in the site during the vegetative stage of the plants. With that
scenario, the local team conducted a series of meetings to solve the problem.
From Brgy. Tawin-tawin, where the MS farm was located, the team transferred
the STBF site to the MVC Techno Demo Farm, in Brgy. Tangcarang, for the
fourth and fifth cycles. The area has year-round irrigation and windbreaks.
Meanwhile, the fourth cycle (Jan. 22, 2010 to May 14, 2010) experienced
the manifestation climate change such as the very warm environment which
caused the cupping of leaves. Irrigation was done twice a week, however, that
was not enough to compensate for the need of the plants. In spite of the
uncertain weather conditions, the tomato plants still survived. Fortunately, the
STBF produced higher yield as compared to that of the farmers practice. This
was due to the use of plastic mulch in the enhanced practice which conserved
soil moisture and controlled weed occurrence.
The MS implemented the fifth cycle from June to October 2010. The
tomato seedlings were vigorous and healthy; however, during the flowering stage
some flowers were aborted because of heavy rains and strong winds. The
interventions employed were the same as those of the previous cycles.
Process Documentation. Process documentation was done to record

the various activities in implementing the project. The FITS ISS and TSS, with
the assistance of the PMA team leader and technical expert, were tasked to
document the said activities.
Adopters trainings. To showcase the different interventions of the

STBF projects, two batches of farmer-adopters trainings were conducted. These
were spearheaded by the FITS Center staff. The training programs shared the
STBF technologies and increased farmers awareness on organic tomato
production.
The first training was attended by 34 potential adopters from different

barangays in Alaminos City, namely: San Antonio, Inerangan, Tawin-tawin,
Amangbangan, Landoc, Polo, Sta. Maria, Cayucay, San Roque, Balangobong,
Lucap, Mona, Sabangan, and San Jose.

The following topics were discussed: cultural management of tomato;
Interventions on the enhance technology and farmers practice; and botanical
pesticides.
Likewise, hands-on demonstration on the following was done:
Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ);

Fermented Fruit Juice (FFJ);
Fish Amino Acids (FAA); and
Indigenous Microrganisms (IMO).
The second adopters training was conducted at the MVC Techno-Demo

Farm in Brgy. Tangcarang, Alaminos City. This lasted for 4 days. In that training,
MS Jaime Navarro, shared his practices in tomato production and the
interventions used in the STBF. Likewise, he demonstrated the production of
organic fertilizers, biopesticides, fungicide, and IMO. Furthermore, he discussed
the importance and uses of the following:
Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ);

Fermented Fruit Juice (FFJ);
Fish Amino Acid (FFA);
Calphos (Fermented Oyster Shells);
Indigenous Microorganism (IMO);
Bio-pesticide (Langkuas Fermentation, Fermented Leaves of Neem
Tree, and Makabuhay; and
Bio-fungicide (Fermented bawang with beer, gin and vegetable oil)
In addition, one staff of the General Services Office in Alaminos shared

her knowledge on vermi-composting while one farmer-adopter demonstrated
bokasi making. A combination of participatory lecture-discussion, hands-on
demonstration, and open forum was used during the training, which enhanced
the learning of the participants.
Farmers Field Day. Inherent to the STBF guidelines is the conduct of a

field day after the completion of each cycle. The activity was led by the PMA in
coordination with the FITS Center. Generally, it promoted the S&T interventions
to farmers in the locality and in the province. Likewise, it ensure that S&T
interventions were properly and completely disseminated to adopters. MS Jaime
Navarro explained the activities and benefits gained through the project to the
participants. It is expected that through these activities, the participants could
comparing the MS and the enhanced practices.
Before the start of every field day, a field tour was done. Participants
were encouraged to observe and compare the enhanced technology and the MS
119
practice. Copies of the Client Satisfaction Feedback (CSF) form were distributed
to all the participants. This activity was facilitated by the MS, TSS, and the focal
person. After the field tour, the TSS and the MS facilitated the open forum.
Moreover, the local team focal person presented and explained the
Partial Budget Analysis. She explained the added costs, added returns and
reduced costs of the MS and the enhanced practices. As of October 8, 2010, the
net change in income of the two enterprise was P4,541.25. This is the additional
benefit derived from the technology being introduced. Aside from the net change
in income or the benefit derived, she also mentioned the long-term effect and the
unquantifiable and immeasurable returns of using organic fertilizer, bio-
fungicides, and bio pesticides to consumers and the environment.
Similarly, the package of technology of the S & T interventions was

explained by the TSS; specifically, she explained to the participants the step-by-
step in establishing the STBF organic tomato vis-a-vis the interventions used.
Certificate and tokens were distributed to the 35 perspective farmer

adopters. The token includes : 1 T-shirt; 1 bottle Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ);
1 bottle Fish Amino Acid (FAA); 1 bottle Indigenous Micro-organisms (IMO);
bokasi, 20 pcs vermin (Africa night crawler). Tomato seedlings were also
promised to be given to them as soon as their area is ready for transplanting.
About 70 farmer participants, City Agriculture staff and LGU employees,

FITS Center Staff of Sta. Barbara and DA-ILIARC Staff were involved in the field
day.
IEC Production and Distribution. Posters, leaflets, and flyers were

prepared by the local team showcasing the different interventions of the STBF on
tomato production.
IEC materials on organic farming including the different technology

interventions were prepared and a simple video presentation was produced
documenting the different practices of MS Navarro including the technology
interventions followed/tested.
II. Effects of Utilizing the S&T Interventions in Tomato Production:

Comparison on the Yield and Income of the MS Practice and Enhanced
Practice
A. S&T Interventions
The graph of S&T interventions include seedling production and

management, potting medium used, crop establishment, fertilizer management,
and pest and disease management.

A.2 Enterprise Performance Data
Table 3 shows the yield of the enhanced technology (STBF) and the
farmers practice.
The STBF had a yield higher than that of the MS practice with a
difference of 220 kg. This was due to the following observations from seed
sowing to harvesting.
Tomato seedlings raised in seedling trays with potting medium composed of

garden soil, coco coir, compost produced healthy seedlings;
Transplanted seedlings had lesser transplant stress, thus recovery was
faster and growth was uniform;
Using processed chicken manure (PCM) improved soil texture that favored
better root development and enhanced water/moisture absorption;
Using plastic mulch helped conserve soil moisture, controlled weed
population, and served as insect repellant;
Applying CALPHOS to transplanted seedlings facilitated recovery and led to
uniform plant growth; and
Applying fermented plant juice (FPJ), Fish Amino Acid (FAA) and indigenous
micro-organism produced more vigorous, more sturdy and taller tomato
plants as well as higher yield, better quality fruits and survived longer than
those raised inorganically.
Table 3.Yield (kg) of tomato of the MS Enhance Practice compared to the MS
practice (2008-2010)
MS Enhanced Difference
Practice (STBF)
Yield (kg) 261.7 481.7 220
Price: Php 14.29

Area : 500 sqm
B. PROFITABILITY ANALYSIS (Partial Budget Analysis)
Table 4 shows the partial budget analysis for naturally-grown tomato under
the STBF setup. Results showed that the enhanced technology improved the
existing practices as manifested by the increased yield and consequently
increased income of the MS during the last two cycles. It should be noted that
during the second cycle, the farm was affected by typhoon Queenie with
continuous heavy rains during the fruiting stage. Likewise, the plant was affected
by long drought and unusual strong winds during the third cycle vegetative stage.
Partial budget analysis was used to assess the impact of the S & T Based Farm
as compared to that of the MS practice.
Table 4. Partial Budget Analysis of the STBF (August 2008 November 2010)
INCOME REDUCING INCOME INCREASING
122
Added Cost Added Return
Labor :
a. Seed Sowing/ Care of seedlings Yield difference of Enhance Tech from
b. Bed preparation & organic appln 75.00 MS practice
c. Mulching 675.00 220 kgs @ 14.30/kg = 3,146.00
d. Pruning and deleafing 150.00
e. Trellising 187.50
f. Harvesting 262.50
Materials Cost 250.50
Fertilizers
Plastic Mulch 459.50
Seedling Trays 513.00
Buho/Twine 227.00

283.00
(Savings)
Furrowing 400.00
Transplanting 150.00
Replanting 81.91
Irrigation 262.50
Sidedressing/drenching 360.94
Weeding 487.50
TrelisinG 300.00
Control of pests/spraying 28.12
Pesticides 210.00
Fuel and Oil 228.50
Net Change In Income 5,655.47 3,082.50 = 2,572.97
C. General Perception of the MS and Participants Feedback On The
Technology Intervention
The technology of the naturally-grown tomato has been a long practice

by MS Jaime Navarro. He is confident that after five years of using these
interventions higher yield can be attained under normal conditions (no
calamities). MS Navarro said that with technology, it is easier to manage weeds
and pests in a safer and more environment friendly way.
Moreover, MS Navarro requested the farmer-adopters to share their

testimonies regarding the STBF on tomato production. Buena Banogon, a lady
participant from Brgy. Balayang said that she learned a lot about organically
producing tomato, which she likewise shared to her friends and neighbors in their
barangay. Another lady farmer, Lilia Caacbay shared a testimony on organic
farming. At first, she had zero knowledge of what farming is all about. Until one
day, she came across MS Jaime Navarro whom she asked the long-time
questions on her mind. MS Navarro gave her idea of what organic farming is all
about, and the use of the plastic mulch. He also advised her to go to the City
Agriculture Office for more information regarding farming operations. By now, she
is using organic fertilizer plus a little of inorganic fertilizer in her vegetable and
papaya farm. She has also tried comparing her plants raised using pure
inorganic fertilizer and those sown using organic ones. Those was able to
confirm the plants from organically grow faster, taller, and more robustly.
CONCLUSIONS
Based on the results of the study, the following conclusions were drawn:
Strong working relationships among the STBF local team members played
a vital role in realizing project success.
Meetings before and during project implementation were essential in

assessing the weaknesses and strengths whose results serve as anchor in
improving project implementation.
Close project monitoring and evaluation are essential in keeping touch of

the project and its operations; and
The enhanced technology produced higher yield due to the holistic farming
management interventions.

RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the conclusions, the following recommendations are forwarded:
Using FAA, FPJ, CALPHOS and IMO are recommended for tomato
production;
Using of botanical pesticides to control fruit worm;
Using organic farming technology is environment friendly and healthy because

it has long-term effect on the soil and it provides countless benefits to the
farmer;
STBF should be established in the same site for the whole cycle of the project
to be able to observe and appreciate the effect of organic fertilizers applied;
Using seedling trays with potting medium composed of garden soil, coco coir,
and compost produce healthy seedlings.
Using processed chicken manure (PCM) to improve soil texture making it

more porous which favors better root development and enhances water/
moisture absorption; and
Using plastic mulch to conserve soil moisture, control weed population, repel
insect pests.
REFERENCES

2010, Management Innovative Strategies for Sustainability: An Extension
Terminal Report, STBF on Organic-Based Tomato Production, 2010.

Department of Agriculture- Ilocos Integrated Agricultural Research Center,
Bacnotan, La Union.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/101615157/Growing-Tomatoes-in-the-Philippines,
Retrieved on August 18, 2013.
http://www.alaminoscity.gov.ph/thecity/mayorsmessage.aspx, Retrieved on
August 30, 2013.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Partnership, Retrieved on September 8, 2013.

The Case of Complete Confinement
Method Plus Concentrates in Goat Production
Wilhelmina Castaneda, Mary Anne Rarogal, Josefina Bueno,
Editha Estacio, and Consuelo N. Belarmino
INTRODUCTION
In the Philippines , more and more people are now raising goats -- in
their farms, in their backyards, and even in their ranches! We have been raising
goats since the early 1970s and we have observed that the demand for the
animal has been increasing, admits Roy C. Alimoane, the current director of the
Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC) Foundation, Incorporated.
Goat House Records from the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry
and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD) showed that the
number of goats in the Philippines has been increasing consistently. In 1990,
there were about 2.2 million goats all over the country. Today, the country is
home to 3.3 million goats.
Goat production is economically valuable for the Philippines with value

rising from P3.3 billion in 2000 to P5.113 billion in 2005. At the increased price of
P4,000 per head, the current inventory is now valued at P13.2 billion (http://
www.gaiadiscovery.com/agriculture-industry/goat-raising-offers-income-
opportunity-for-farmers.html).
Goat raising is one of the simplest, lowest-cost food production projects

that a Filipino can get involved in, Alimoane says the same source adds
that: Because of the rising cost of commercial feeds these days, goats have
become one of the most economical alternatives for meeting the protein needs of
Filipino families.
Goats require low maintenance because they eat tree leaves, grasses,
weeds, and agricultural by-products. Goats require less feed than cows and
carabaos, Alimoane claims.

125
Goat raising has gone a long way for the decade or so as improved
breeds are raised by more and more farmers, new production technologies are
developed by experts, and more serious investors are getting into the industry
(Agriculture Magazine, October 2009). In fact, it has been a common activity of
small-scale farm households. Its potential as a good source of additional income
without much cost for both capital and maintenance has motivated even the
poorest farm household to take care of one or two heads of goat. This number
may either be owned by the household or is just taken care of and which is
usually owned by the landlord.
Goat raising has its own advantages compared to raising bigger

ruminants such as cattle or buffalo. Goats can be confined in elevated quarters,
making it easier to prevent outbreaks of parasites and diseases. Goats also
require less feeds than bigger animals. Additionally, the milk sells at a better
price (Agriculture Magazine, July, 2008).
Further, as indicated in the Tips on Goat Raising prepared by the

Regional Agriculture and Information Division, DA-RFU 1, goats, compared to
other ruminants, have inherent advantages such as higher fertility rates, shorter
gestation period, early maturity, and have the capacity for multiple births. It is
known as the living bank of the poor as it is a good source of secondary income
to rural farming households. Because goats are relatively small, initial
investment is similarly small, too. A family can invest P2, 000.00 to P3, 000.00
for a doe to produce 12 heads in two years with a value of P30,000.00 (Tips on
Goat Raising. Department of Agriculture-RFU 1). Moreover, because of the
size, even small children or women can take responsibility in taking care of the
herd.
At present, goat production gained importance nationwide because of the

technological interventions that have been employed like the Farmers Livestock
School on Integrated Goat Management (FLS-IGM), a breakthrough in the goat
industry. With this development, goat raisers who adopted the technologies
significantly increased their production and income leading them to a brighter
future.
Goat industry keeps on growing and it is imperative to employ improved

production technologies to address farmers needs in this particular agribusiness
venture.
The implementation of this S & T based farm on goat production was

done on environmentally and socially-improved farming practices. The different
technological interventions showcased have provided prospective adopters such
as farmers, entrepreneurs, and other clients the opportunity to see for
themselves the viability of adopting appropriate technologies for goat production
that would improve the efficiency and sustainability of goat raising.

The project contributes to the realization of the Techno-Gabay Program for
Enhancing Farmers Information and Technology Services (FITS) for Rural
Development Information on S & Tbased practices.
Purpose
The STBF was established to showcase the effectiveness of S&T

interventions in R&D management, research utilization, and technology
promotion in Complete Confinement Method Plus Concentrates in Goat
Production.
Duration of the project. The STBF on Complete Confinement Method

Plus Concentrates in Goat Production was conducted from July 11, 2008 to
September 2010.
Limitations of the project. The MS successfully completed the project

following the interventions on the enhanced and MS practices. However, during
its first cycle, the STBF was heavily affected and damaged by typhoon Pepeng.
This prompted the cancellation of its first field day scheduled on October 29,
2009.
Other concerns that affected project implementation includes the

occurrence of unpredicted heavy rains and strong winds brought by series of
typhoons; long drought (El Nio) and saddened change of climate. Harmful
effects of mango flower inducer and pesticides adversely affected the health of
the stocks (goats) through inhalation of fumes and contamination of grasses
being used as feeds for the goats.
Significance of the project. The project benefited the goat raisers with
the improved technology on goat production and the result provided better
options in providing shelter and food for their animals. Likewise, goat raisers
were provided with improved practices and better income for the family.
Results of the STBF were indeed useful to technical experts and

agriculturists as they now have ready reference and additional information
applicable in their research studies and for dissemination to their clientele.
Objectives
Generally, there were two major objectives of the S & T Farm on Complete
Confinement Method Plus Concentrates in Goat Production. These are to:

127
interventions and utilization of complete confinement method plus
concentrates in goat production by:
identifying the contributions of resource-sharing, partnership-building, and

technology promotion, as well as organizational, and problem-solving
dynamics in goat production;
pinpointing the issues/concerns related to resource sharing, partnership

building, and technology promotion, as well as organizational, and problem
-solving dynamics in goat production;
2. Determine the effects of utilizing S&T interventions in complete confinement

method plus concentrates in goat production by:
comparing the production from goat production utilizing MS practice and

enhanced practice using S&T interventions; and
comparing the income from goat production utilizing MS practice and

enhanced practice using S&T interventions.
METHODOLOGY
Project site. The STBF was first established at the farm of Mr. Rodolfo
Castillo located in Barangay San Joaquin, Balungao, Pangasinan. He was the
first appointed MS of the Balungao FITS Center. However, due to unavailability,
Mr. Castillo requested the local government unit of Balungao to look for his
replacement; hence, the appointment of his relative and fellow San Joaquin
resident, Ms. Rosario Castillo.
The STBF established at the farm of Mr. Castillo focused mainly on the
intensified forage production and feeding. However, with DA-ILIARC as the new
PMA, and the transfer of the STBF to the farm of Ms. Castillo, the component
technologies were modified into STBF on complete confinement method plus
concentrates in goat production. This was established on July 11, 2008.
The goat raising industry is among the most popular (particularly in

Balungao where there is even a yearly Goat Festival), because with minimal
capital goats, they multiply faster than carabaos and cattle especially with the

mixed breeding system introduced, and also because goats are particularly
requiring low maintenance since they feed only on corn stover and weeds (http://
loqal.ph/business-and-finance/2013/04/05/pangasinan-native-promotes-
sustainability-through-goat-farming/).
Data gathering procedure. Observations and documentation were used

in gathering data needed in realizing the first objective. These were conducted by
the local team starting from planning, implementation, monitoring, and
evaluation. Attendance sheets, recorded minutes of meetings and field
observations were used in documenting and collecting the necessary data.
Quantitative approach was used to gather data for the second objective.
Data processing and analysis. Activities conducted were properly

observed and documented to determine the contributions, issues, and concerns
on the R&D management practices employed in the STBF. The local teams
experiences on resource-sharing, partnership-building, technology promotion,
together organizational, and problem solving dynamics that facilitated the
utilization and adoption of the S&T interventions on complete confinement
method plus concentrates in goat production were properly documented.
For the second objective, data gathered were slaughter weight,

marketable age, reproductive efficiency, kid mortality, and parasite load as the
major variables measured. A comparison of these variables was done both in
the enhanced and the MS practices. The Partial Budget Analysis (PBA) was
used to assess the economic viability of the interventions/component
technologies applied in the enhanced practice vis-a-vis the MS practice. The
following steps were undertaken for the partial budget analysis:
1. Describing the S&T-based interventions/component technologies.

The following were interventions of the Enhanced Technology:
Using complete confinement with legumes and improved grasses;
Supplementing 97% feed with rice brand (D1), 2% dicalphos, and 1%
salt at a rate of 200 grams/day;
Deworming at least twice a year using valbazen;
Natural breeding;
Weaning for 4 months;
Providing convenient housing;
Collecting and using organic fertilizers
2. Listing and quantifying the gains and losses resulting in the application of the
interventions/components technologies. These represented the following: a)
costs or income reducing (added costs and reduced returns (A); and
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b) benefits or income increasing (added returns and reduced costs). Net
change in income was determined by subtracting total costs from B less total
costs from A.
3. Calculating/computing the change in the increasing number of offspring,

average weight at birth, average weight at 3 months, average weight at 8
months, kid mortality, total number of does, and kidding rate.
4. Identifying and listing the non-monetary factors that influenced the decisions
on whether or not the intervention/component technologies are implemented.
The PBA was applied for the duration of the project. Table 1 presents the
summary of the techniques used in the methodology.
The first part discusses the R&D management practices that facilitated
S&T interventions utilization and adoption in Complete Confinement Method
Plus Concentrates in Goat Production whereas the second part considered the
effects of utilizing S&T interventions in Complete Confinement Method Plus
Concentrates in Goat Production.

Facilitate Utilization and Adoption on S&T Interventions on complete
confinement method plus concentrates in goat production.
This refers to the management practices involved in the selection of the

local team, selection and evaluation of the MS, and mobilization of the local team
in implementing the STBF. Selections of such were based on the protocols
developed through the ILARRDEC Regional R&D Coordinating Committee.
Selection of the local team. The guidelines in selecting the local team
were set by PCAARRD. The composition of the local team included the FITS
center manager, and MS from the Balungao FITS Center, and the technical
expert and focal person from DA-RFU 1 as the PMA. This was endorsed by the
PMA team leader for approval by the RRDCC members. Further, internal
arrangement between the FITS Center and the PMA such as the inclusion of the
Information Services Specialist (ISS) and Technology Services Specialist (TSS)
was done. Focal Person from the PMA was also designated by the PMA team
leader to serve as his counter-ego (Table 2).

Table 1. Summary of techniques used in the methodology.

131
DA-ILIARC was chosen by ILARRDEC as the PMA for the Balungao
FITS Center based on the presence of expertise and distance from the area.
Selection and evaluation of the MS. Prior to the STBF establishment,

the MS was selected and screened based on the criteria provided by ILARRDEC
and PCARRD. The farmer was endorsed by the FITS Center for evaluation by
the Regional Techno-Gabay Group before the approval of the RRDCC. The MS
was evaluated in terms of her commitment and understanding of the STBF
principles.
Mrs. Rosario P. Castillo was selected as MS in 2008. She graduated in

the second piloting of the Farmers Livestock School on Integrated Goat
Management and a former Barangay Captain of San Joaquin, Balungao,
Pangasinan. Equipped with technical know-how on goat production, she shared
her expertise to goat raisers who visited her goat farm, which qualified her as the
project farmer-cooperator.
Her 5-ha farm is located in Barangay San Joaquin, Balungao,

Pangasinan. Four (4) hectares is planted with rice during wet season and corn
during dry season.
The rest of the area was converted for the S & T-Based Farm. The 8,000
square meter-area was planted with good quality forages like napier, setaria,
and legumes such as flemingia, rensonii, Sesbaniasesban, indigofera, ipil-ipil,
and kakawate. Water pump was used to irrigate the area to ensure water supply
during dry season. A goat house was constructed with complete fencing in the
remaining 2,000 square meters.
Mobilization of the local team. Designations were given by the local

government unit of Balungao to the STBF Management staff and the FITS
Table 2. Composition of Local Team.

Position Name
FITS Manager Mr.Danilo Imus
TSS Ms.Lemie I. Revita
ISS Ms. Regina Oliveros
MS Ms. Rosario Castillo
Focal person Ms.LemuelAbrenica
Technical expert Ms. Marilyn Lilagan
PMA Team leader Ms. Consuelo Belarmino
TGP Team Ms. Wilhelmina Castaneda
TGP Team Ms.Editha Estacio

Center staff. DA counterpart was designated by the DA agency head. The
designated team was composed of the following:
B. Partnership - Building
The STBF was a project implemented not only by one agency but, it was
a partnership between and among agencies providing different support activities.
As stipulated in the MOA, responsibilities of each participating stakeholder were
defined.
Partnership-building was documented in several situations as follows:
Meeting of the local team. Series of meetings were conducted with the
FITS staff and TGP team as well as the Magsasaka Syentista. This ensured a
coordinated STBF project implementation. Close coordination between the TGP
team and FITS staff was also done.
Meeting with the FITS management staff. Monitoring was conducted

regularly and as needed to ensure that the activities were properly implemented.
This also led to immediate solutions of problems encountered along the
implementation.
MOA signing. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) initiated by

PCAARRD through ILARRDEC was forged between PCARRD-ILARRDEC, LGU-
Balungao, and DA.
C. Resource-Sharing
Each of the participating stakeholders shared resources, either material

or non-material, in the project implementation.
The MS committed his farm to be the demonstration site of the project in

which, visitors and other stakeholders witnessed for themselves showcased
technologies.. On the other hand, the PMA and the FITS Center provided their
technical expertise and allocated funds for monitoring purposes.
The project was not spared with problems during project implementation.
This however did not hinder the project management staff to implement the
project. Problems were properly addressed by the project management staff.
This signified their commitment to succeed in implementing the project
particularly in determining S&T interventions that would help provide the goat

133
Problems encountered Solutions
La Nina and El Nino, Abrupt Strict animal confinement during

change of climate/temperature typhoons and mango season
Harmful effects of mango Cut and carry feeding to prevent
flower inducer and pesticides occurrence of diseases
to the health of the stocks Use of drought resistant forages
(goats) through inhalation of S upp le me nt at io n of g oat
fumes and consumption of concentrates and multi-vitamins
contaminated grasses by
goats
Flooding due to Typhoon Rehabilitation of the existing forage
Pepeng area through the application of
fertilizer and irrigation as the need
arises.
Establishment of additional forage
area (1,599 sq. m) planted with
improved grasses and legumes to
supplement the existing forage
production.
Purchase of stocks for the
Enhanced Technology such as 1
head purebred Boer buck and 5
heads upgraded does.
raisers with the improved practices to improve their production and eventually
increase their income. Problems were given solutions via inception meetings
and monitoring activities.
Inception meeting. Prior to the start of the project, inception meeting

was conducted to finalize the S&T interventions to be imposed as follows:
Planned/Programmed monitoring activities. A regular monthly

monitoring was scheduled and conducted by the local team to ensure that the
MS and the local team were in the right track and the different agreed upon S&T
interventions were strictly implemented. Likewise, this served as a venue for
surfacing problems encountered in the project implementation and for identifying
solutions. In addition, emergency monitoring activities were conducted in times of
calamities.
Promotional activities such technology field day and IEC material

production facilitated the transfer of the S&T interventions.

Technology field days (TFD). One of the requirements in establishing
the STBF is the conduct of field day for the whole project duration and / or for
every completed cycle. The field day showcases the different technology
interventions applied for adoption by the intended users (Table 3).
Activities included in the field day were project tours wherein the
participants personally witnessed for themselves the different practices followed.
The MS presented the application of various technology interventions during the
forum. However, the first field day did not materialize because the project was
heavily damaged by typhoon.
IEC materials production and distribution. IEC materials were

produced by the local team as supplementary materials used in conducting field
days and on-farm viits. The materials featured the different interventions applied
in the project. Among the IEC materials produced are as follows:
Agtarakentayo iti Kalding

Agmulaka dagit idekalidad a ruot
Paksiaten dagiti ariet
Ipupok dagiti kalding iti koral
Agpakan iti uneg ti koral (Stall feeding)
Panagdalus ken panagkompos
Panangtaripato iti kalding
II. Effects of Utilizing S&T Interventions in Complete Confinement Method

Plus Concentrates in Goat Production: Comparison on the Yield and
Income of the MS Practice and Enhanced Practice
The technology interventions followed in the MS practice vis--vis the

enhanced practice are presented in Table 4.
Parameters gathered to compare the MS and Enhanced Practices were:

an increase in kidding rate (1.6), which reflected the reproductive efficiency of the
animals. Managing the enhanced technology played a vital role in attaining a
higher reproductive efficiency like the feeding system and nutrition given to the
animals. Lower mortality rate of offspring (6.25%), which was attributed to the
lesser exposure of the kids to extreme environmental condition and lesser
exposure to parasites of the confined animals; hence, reduced the frequency of
deworming to once a year. The details of the production performance are shown
in Table 5.
135
TECHNOLOGY
FIELD DAY DATE PARTICIPANT
Farmers Field Day on October 14, 2010 76 farmers/30 adopters;
Complete Confinement 1 NEDA
Method Plus Concen- 3 DA, ILIARC
trates 2 MMSU
2 DA ISS III
2 ILARRDEC
2 PCARRD
2 LGU- Sta. Barbara
8 LGU- San Nicolas
7 LGU- Balungao
3 Municipal Officials
(Municipal Mayor,
Municipal Councilors)
Table 4. Comparison of the MS and enhanced practices followed in the

project.
PARAMETER M.S. PRACTICE ENHANCED TECH-
(10 heads doe) NOLOGY
(10 heads doe)
Grazing/tethering Complete confine-
9:00 -12 AM ment with legumes
2:00-5:00 PM and improved
grasses
Feed supplement-97% rice
Feeding Method brand (D1), 2% dicalphos, Feed supplement,
and 1% salt at a rate of 2oo 97% rice brand (D1),
grams/day 2% dicalphos, and
1% salt at a rate of
200 grams/day
Deworming at least
Deworming at least twice a
Animal health twice a year using
year using valbazen
valbazen
Breeding Natural Natural
Weaning Period No weaning Weaning at 4 months
Provided with hous-
Housing Provided with housing
ing
Waste Collected and use as
Scattered, not collected
Management organic fertilizer

Table 5. Production performance of the enhanced technology vs MS
practice.
PARAMETER ENHANCED TECHNOLOGY MS PRACTICE
Does kidded 10 4
Offsprings pro- 16 4
duced
Kidding rate 1.6 1
Mortality rate (%) 6.25 50
Higher average birth weight and slaughter weight were obtained in the
enhanced technology. This was attributed to the improved technology like the
provision of quality grasses and legumes to the does in adlibitum basis from
breeding to lactation which produced bigger and healthier offsprings. As shown in
Table 7, the average weaning weight of the animals in the enhanced technology
is slightly lower (9.59) which resulted to higher kidding rate (1.6). However, the
provision of improved nutrition after weaning had a positive result on the weight
of the kids hence, a higher slaughter weight was obtained. The MS randomly
picked 10 does for the MS practice tied with blue tag and 10 does in the
enhanced technology tied with yellow tag.
During the first cycle, the STBF was damaged by typhoon Pepeng. The
normal flow of the STBF was affected and the project needed rehabilitation.
The rehabilitation period was from November to December 2009. MS

Castillo developed the forage area like napier, setaria, forage corn, legumes,
(rensoni, sesbania sesban and flemengia) and expanded the area to 0.3 hectare
in order to ensure the abundant supply of feeds intended for the complete
confinement under the enhanced technology.
Table 6. Growth performance of offsprings under the enhanced technology vs

MS practice.
PARAMETER TOTAL AVERAGE AVERAGE AVERAGE

NO. OF BIRTH WEANING SLAUGHTER
KIDS WEIGHT, WEIGHT AT 3 WEIGHT AT 5
KG MONTHS, KG MONTHS, KG
Enhanced 16 2.01 9.59 15.95

Technology
MS Practice 4 1.38 9.85 14.2

137
Under the MS practice, the 10 does with blue tags freely grazed in the
natural vegetation within the vicinity from 9:00am to 12:00 noon and from 2:00
pm to 5:00 pm. MS Castillo emphasized the planting of forages like grasses and
legumes to ensure abundant supply during dry season.
The enhanced technologies on complete confinement method plus

concentrate were useful and easy to adopt by other farmers. According to MS
Castillo, using these technologies provides higher growth rate and income for
farmers. She added that complete confined goats have more advantages than
disadvantages; in fact, they are conveniently managed and environment friendly.
Partial Budget Analysis assessed the impact of the enhanced practice

and farmers practice in producing goat at the S&T-based farm of Ms. Rosario
Castillo. Based on the results, the enhanced technology performed better in
terms of income which was brought about by the increase in the number of
offspring and goat manure with an additional income of P18,411.60 (Table 7).
Table 7. Partial Budget Analysis showing the enhanced and farmers

practices in goat production.

CONCLUSIONS/RECOMMENDATIONS:
Based on the findings, the following conclusions were drawn:
Meetings held before and during the implementation to assess the

weaknesses and strengths served as a venue to further improve the
project implementation.
Strong working relationship among the STBF team members played a

vital role for the success of the project.
Complete confinement and feed supplementation provides higher growth

rate and income for farmers.
The conversion of waste into organic fertilizer added income for the MS
income; thus, the amount can supplement the added cost of establishing
and producing the forages.
REFERENCES
(http://pinas.ph/Article/134/Balungao).
http://www.pangasinan.gov.ph/the-province/cities-and-municipalities/balungao/
http://www.gaiadiscovery.com/agriculture-industry/goat-raising-offers-income-
opportunity-for-farmers.html
Agriculture Magazine, October 2009, pp

139
The Case of Bamboo Production
and Rejuvenation
Bella C. Gervacio, Marivic M. Alimbuyuguen, Charlie Batin,

Guillermo Torralba, Berry Butac, Nida Rigates,
Jin Gasmen and Jaypee Ilacas
INTRODUCTION
Bamboo (Graminae) is the largest member of flowering perennial

evergreen plants in the grass family. Likewise, it is one of the fastest-growing
plants in the world due to a unique rhizome-dependent system. In fact, it is
friendlier to the environment than the traditional timber, because it grows faster
than trees and it is harvested in shortened cycles. Further, bamboo grows three
times faster than eucalyptus tree and releases 35% more oxygen than other
forest trees.
Moreover, bamboo is notable economic and cultural significance in

South Asia, Southeast Asia, and East Asia, because it is used as building
material, food source, and versatile raw product (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/
Bamboo, Retrieved May 29, 2013). As one of Asias traditional building materials,
bamboo has been given a new look with the help of modern industrial
technologies as an alternative to endangered hardwood timbers.
In the Philippines, bamboo is a high productivity plant for food and

industry. It plays a vital role in the countrys socio-economic development being
among the dollar-earning exports. It stands out among woody plants because it
possesses unique qualities and offers a wide array of uses. As such, it serves as
a magnificent showcase of indigenous Filipino artistry through finished handicraft
products. Unlike in harvesting trees, wherein all stands are cut regardless of their
maturity, only matured bamboo poles are selected for harvesting.
Through the years, the uses of bamboo have largely diversified and
benefited many industries. The bamboo culms have traditionally been tapped as
an inexpensive source of housing materials, furniture, handicraft, banana props,
fish pens, and other innumerable products. The young shoots of certain species

141
are gathered for food. Because of its large fibers, bamboo is also a good material
for pulp and paper. Its short rotation of about 4-6 years is a distinct advantage
over fast growing tree species because of quick turn over in terms of investments
(http://anythingaboutbamboo.blogspot.com/2010/11/ philippine-national-report-on
-bamboo.html).
Being considered as the traditional industry in the Ilocos Region,

bamboo continues to expand by providing income and generating employment
for farmers, stand-owners, and bamboo traders in the countryside. It could
generate tremendous income for bamboo (kawayan) stand owners and traders.
In 1994, Ilocos Norte had 395,950 stumps worth over Php3 million and 8,600
poles worth P172,000 sold to traders [(Battad et al, (1994), cited in Malab et. al,
(1999)]. Nevertheless, one major constraint in developing commercial bamboo
plantation is the source of planting materials. It has been observed that raw
materials of bamboo have been diminishing in enormously and quickly. As such,
farmers harvest culms and shoots from natural stands, which are basically left in
their wild state (Malab et. al, 1999). Hence, bamboo production and rejuvenation
is necessary. That was why the Local Government Unit of Bangui, in cooperation
with PCARRD-ILARRDEC and MMSU, implemented the STBF on bamboo
production and rejuvenation in a half hectare bamboo farm in Baruyen, Bangui,
Ilocos Norte to convert old and unproductive bamboo stands into productive
ones.
Duration of the project. The STBF on bamboo production and

rejuvenation was conducted in three cycles from January 2010 to December
2012. Specifically, the first cycle was conducted from January to December
2010; the second cycle, from January to December 2011; and the third cycle,
from January to December 2012.
Limitations of the project. The MS was able to complete the three

cycles. He strictly followed the interventions on the enhanced STBF and MS
practices. The Kawayan Tinik (Bambusa blumeana) species was used in both
enhanced STBF and MS set up.
However, in harvesting bamboo poles, the MS was advised to retain

some of the matured poles to protect and prevent lodging during strong winds
and typhoons. More so that the place often experiences strong winds and is
frequently visited by typhoons. Hence, the MS only harvested matured bamboo
poles during summer when the typhoons and strong winds are minimal.
Significance of the project. Bamboo is fast becoming a cost effective

and attractive alternative to wood, plastic, and metal, hence can potentially

generate more jobs and self-employment opportunities. It can be transformed
into cash crop, and helps alleviate the plight of poor farmers who are engaged in
its production. Moreover, apart from its use as raw material, bamboo significantly
contributes to climate change mitigation and environmental disaster
management. Thus, the establishment of the STBF on bamboo production and
rejuvenation was not only to showcase the profitability of growing and
rejuvenating bamboo but also to highlight the importance of environmentally
sustainable bamboo production scheme that will help conserve natural
resources.
The findings of the STBF on bamboo production and rejuvenation will

help bamboo-farmers increase their production and income. The STBF also
allows them to adopt the technologies showcased in the silvicultural
management of the project.
Results of the STBF will also be useful to technical experts and

Agriculturists as a ready reference and additional information that can be applied
for research endeavour, and disseminated to their clientele, respectively.
Lastly, the conduct of intensive information drive on the result of the

STBF can ensure adoption among bamboo-farmers in the community and others
areas in the region.
Objectives
The S & T farm in bamboo production and rejuvenation was done to:
intervention and utilization in bamboo production and rejuvenation by:
1.1 Identifying the contributions of resource-sharing, partnership-building,
technology promotion, organizational dynamics, and problem solving
dynamics in facilitating S&T intervention utilization and adoption;
1.2 Pinpointing the issues/concerns related to resource sharing, partnership
building, technology promotion, organizational dynamics, and problem-
solving dynamics in S&T interventions utilization and adoption; and
2. Determine the effects of utilizing S&T interventions in bamboo production and

rejuvenation by:
2.1 Comparing the yield between the MS practice and the S&T
interventions in bamboo production and rejuvenation; and
2.2 Comparing the income from bamboo production utilizing the MS
practice and the S&T interventions.

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METHODOLOGY
Project site selection. During the planning meeting, the local team
approved STBF implementation in the municipality because bamboo is abundant
in the locality and the Local Government Unit (LGU) wanted it to be their One-
Town-One-Product (OTOP). In the selection of the MS, Mr. Virgilio Incillo, farmer
and resident of Brgy. Baruyen, Bangui, Ilocos Norte was endorsed by the
Municipal Agriculture Office of Bangui because of his large number of bamboo
clumps and his interest in bamboo production and processing. Unfortunately, due
to the delay in implementing the project, Mr. Incillo was no longer available at
that time because his application for overseas work was then approved. Thus, he
resisted to be the MS of the project. Hence, MAO-Bangui scouted for a
replacement who also met the requirement of an MS. Since Mr. Berry Butac is a
bamboo enthusiast, he readily accepted the offer.
Project Site. The town of Bangui is located at the northwestern part of

the province 64km away from Laoag City. Its boundaries are the Bolo River of
Pagudpud on the north, the town of Vintar on the south, Dumalneg on the east,
and Burgos on the west (http://www.ilocandiarealtor.com/informant. May 2013).
Bangui is a fourth class municipality. It has 15 barangays that spread

throughout a total area of 163.59 km2. In 2007, the population of the town was
14,634.The peoples livelihood are farming, fishing, and mat-making. Likewise,
the construction of the P1.8 Million-Lipsoc communal irrigation dam project in
Bangui is a boon to its agricultural economy. The dam can irrigate 205 ha of land
and benefit some 300 farmers in seven adjacent barangays, resulting in
increased production of rice, corn, garlic, vegetables, and mongo (http://
www.ilocandiarealtor.com /information/geography/bangui.html,Retreived May,
2013).
Considering the presence of riverbanks and its location at the foot of the
mountain, the STBF on organic bamboo production and rejuvenation was
established in MS Berry Butac farm in Brgy. Baruyen, Bangui, Ilocos Norte.
Brgy. Baruyen is a rural barangay located 10km south of the poblacion. The area
measures 10,000m2 for both the MS practice and the enhanced STBF.
S&T Based Interventions/Component Technologies
In the project, the interventions included silvicultural management of old

and unproductive bamboo, such as: a) the removal of defective and over-mature
bamboo culms/posts to reduce congestion and facilitate growth, development,
and production of quality shoots; b) the re-soiling with organic materials of soil

depleted base and bamboo clumps to ensure and facilitate growth of shoots and
poles; c) marking of poles that develop every year to determine the age/maturity
of the poles; d) the application of organic fertilizer at one sack per clump per year
to enhance the growth and development of shoots; e) the removal of dry leaves,
branches, and other vegetation to prevent occurrence of pests and diseases and
to protect the clumps from fire; f) the watering of the area once a month during
dry months to enhance the production of bamboo shoots; and g) the cutting of
the mature bamboo poles preferably one node above the ground to maximize the
utilization of quality poles for processing.
Selection and evaluation of the MS. Prior to the establishment of the

STBF, the MS was selected and screened by ILARRDEC based on the criteria
provided by PCARRD. As a result of the selection and evaluation process, Mr.
Virgilio Incillo was designated as the MS of the Bangui FITS Center.
When the STBF was about to be implemented, after a year of MS

Incillos designation as MS, he had to leave the country for a work overseas. With
that circumstance, the FITS staff searched for another MS who is into bamboo
production in Bangui. After evaluating the qualifications of Mr. Berry Butac in
Brgy. Baruyen, based on the PCARRD guidelines, Mr.Butac was then selected.
Before the designation of the new MS, he was further evaluated in terms of his
MS Butac was appointed as MS for Bangui FITS Center on January

2010. As a farmer leader, Mr. Butac is an active officer and member of various
civic and religious organizations in Bangui. Likewise, he is the secretary of the
association of Partuat E-Kawayan in the same town. The association was
organized in 2009 to serve the budding bamboo enterprise in the municipality.
He is the treasurer of Zanjera Dangdangla, a farmers organization of Baruyen,
Bangui. In addition, he is an active member of the Assemblies of the First Born
Church, specifically, one of the Pentecostal Church elders.
As an innovative farmer who always aspires to enhance whatever he

knows, Mr. Butac attended various seminars and training programs conducted
by the different agencies in Ilocos Norte and Region I to increase his knowledge
and skills in farming and related fields. Likewise, he attended a handicrafts
training offered by the then National Cottage Industry Authority (NACIDA) in
1987. This training opened his horizon to handicrafts making. After the training,
he started making bamboo crafts, baskets, and souvenir items, which were sold
in the municipality. To enhance his creativity in this particular field, the LGU-

145
Bangui sent him to a training sponsored by the Cottage Industry Technology
Center (CITC) Manila in 2011. Moreover, as MS he was invited to attend the E-
kawayan training offered by MMSU in the same year.
Given his desire to improve himself as a model to other farmers, he was a

recipient of the Palayamanan Project of Philrice in 2000. He tills an area of
6,000sq.m for rice and vegetables. In addition, he has a hectare of bamboo farm
with at least 50 clumps. Of that number, 10 clumps were set aside for the STBF
project.
In short, the MS directly implemented the S&T interventions. The FITS

center staff, who is usually the ISS and TSS, directly supervised the MS, more
specifically on his strict compliance to the S&T interventions as prescribed in the
approved proposal. On the other hand, the technical expert guided the MS on
the specific S&T interventions. Meanwhile, the focal person served as the local
team leader with the assistance of the STBF focal person.
After internalizing their roles and signifying then their commitment, the
local team members set themselves to work. Another meeting was set to
deliberate on the proposal to be submitted for the STBF.

PCAARRD, and prior to the submission of the proposal, an inception meeting
was conducted to finalize the different S&T interventions in the STBF. The
activity was attended by the local team members and the TGP regional
coordinator. This meeting was still attended by Mr. Virgilio Incillio as the MS of
the FITS Center to handle the STBF. Activities in the establishment of the S & T
based farms in the MS farm were discussed. Since the area planted to bamboo
is owned by the LGU but is under the care of a group of farmers to include Mr.
Incillio, it was agreed that an area will be set aside for the STBF; both the MS
practice and enhanced practice, which will be managed by the MS. An ocular
inspection was done by the local team in the farm where the STBF was to be
established.
Series of meetings. The inception meeting was followed by a series of

meetings of the local team after nearly a year of waiting for the PCARRDs
approval of the STBF proposal. Inasmuch as MS Incillo failed to attend the said
meetings, the team selected Mr. Berry Butac as replacement.
After those meetings, another meeting was conducted to finalize the

different technology interventions to be followed in the STBF. The activity was
participated in by the Bangui FITS staff, which directly assisted MS Berry Butac
in his bamboo farm, MMSU as the PMA, and ILARRDEC. Aside from the local
team, the punong barangay of Baruyen together with a Sangguniang Bayan

member also attended the said meeting to manifest their interest and support to
the STBF project. The meeting revolved on the existing practices of MS Butac,
proposed technology interventions, financial viability of the project, work and
financial plan, and other important activities to be undertaken in the
establishment and implementation of the STBF.
An ocular inspection was also done in his farm, which was found ideal for
establishing the S&T-based farm. Further, the mechanism of the STBF was
discussed with MS Butac through the initiative of the first technical expert, Dr.
Jose Agustin, who left MMSU for Canada during the first year of the project. He
was then taken over by For. Charlie Batin of the MMSU Research and
Development Directorate. Thus, the different project activities were smoothly
carried out even when the bamboo focal person was replaced.
Table 1 presents the MS practices and the S&T interventions for the
STBF project which were agreed and finalized during the inception meeting.
Several promotional strategies of the STBF on Bamboo Production and

Rejuvenation were adopted. These included the technology field day, IEC
production, press and broadcast releases, and adopters training, and trade fairs
and exhibits. The bamboo demonstration site had been visited by various
development workers, government, and private institution in the region.
Technology Field Days (TFDs). Inherent to the STBF guideline is the

conduct of TFDs after the completion of each cycle, which is led by the PMA. In
the case of organic-based bamboo production, the TFDs were conducted to
promote the S&T interventions to local farmers. The activity ensured that the
interventions are properly and completely shared to adopters. That was possible,
because of the participants firsthand experience in comparing the MS and
enhanced practices (Table 2).
Technology dissemination strategies/activities done during TFDs were:

a) field observations, b) lecture forum by the MS to discuss the results of his
practice and by technical expert on those of the enhanced practice highlighting
the effects of the S&T interventions; c) production and distribution of IEC
materials on the S&T interventions; d) preparation of technology posters used in
the lecture forum; and e) open forum or the Q&A portion where questions from
the participants were responded to by the MS and the technical expert.

147
Table 1. Technology components and activities as agreed upon during the
STBF Local Team meeting.
Species: Kawayan Tinik (Bambusa Species: Kawayan Tinik (Bambusa
blumeana) blumeana)
Component Technology
Maintenance Silvicultural Management
Kept defective and over mature bamboo Removed defective and over-
poles mature bamboo culms
Did not re-soiling with organic materials. Re-soiled with organic materials
No poles marked. Marked of poles.
No fertilizer applied Applied of organic fertilizer @ 1
sack per clump.
Did not use crop protection measures. Removed dry leaves, branches and
other vegetation around the bam-
boo clump.
Did not irrigate Watered or irrigated once a month.
Harvesting
Cut bamboo poles regardless of age. Cut matured bamboo poles.

Cut poles up to the area reached by bolo.

Through the TFDs various stakeholders including other project
implementation partners were invited. This activity is in itself an assessment by
the funding agency on the project implementation. Likewise, the local executive
or his/her representative was invited, which paved the way for renewal of the of
the LGUs commitment to the continuous project implementation.
Only two TDFs were conducted for the STBF on Bamboo Production and
Rejuvenation due to heavy rains and typhoons, particularly during the second
cycle.
Table 2.Technology Field Days conducted in the STBF by the PMA.
TECHNOLOGY FIELD DATE PARTICIPANT

DAY
Farmers Field Day on February 25, 70 farmers from Baruyen,
Organic-Based Bamboo 2011
Production and Bangui, Ilocos Norte; and
Rejuvenation
30 Municipal Agriculture Officers,
Agricultural Technicians, MS
farmers, and representative of the
Provincial Government of Ilocos
Norte, ILARRDEC, LGU-San
Nicolas, LGU-Vintar, University of the
Philippines, Q.C. and MMSU
Farmers Field Day on November 8, 63 farmers and housewives from the
Organic-Based Bamboo 2012 different barangays of Bangui, and
Production and Burgos, Ilocos Norte; development
Rejuvenation workers, and media practitioners.
Technology Adopters
All in all, there were eight farmers from Brgy. Baruyen in Bangui, Ilocos
Norte who adopted the technology intervention during the first field day. That
number of technology adopters increased in with the addition of six bamboo
farmers from other barangays in Bangui, and Burgos, Ilocos Norte. (Table 3)
Moreover, the adopters training on bamboo production and rejuvenation

drew a large number of bamboo farmers and enthusiasts, together with develop-
ment workers, because it was attended by those from various municipalities in
Ilocos Norte, as well as Ilocos Sur and La Union. Of the ten technology adopters,
six of them came from Ilocos Norte, two from Ilocos Sur, and another two from La
Union.
Hence, a total of twenty five (25) registered technology adopters were
recorded throughout the duration of the project including the adopters training
conducted.

Table 3. Distribution of technology adopters in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La
Union.
ACTIVITY SCHEDULE NO. OF TECHNOLOGY ADOPTER

Ilocos Norte Ilocos Sur La Union
First Field Day: 8 - -
February 25, 2011
6 - -
Second Field Day:
November 08, 2012
6 2 2
Adopters Training on bamboo
production and rejuvenation:
January 29-30, 2013
IEC production and distribution. Distributing IEC materials to TFD

participants has strengthened their learning. During the first TFD, the
documented MS practice featuring the preliminary S&T results, was published.
In the last cycle TFD, the S&T interventions were highlighted and a comparison
between the MS farm and enhanced practices were observed. Additionally, the
S&T interventions and their impact were presented, highlighting the differences in
the yield and income between the two set-ups (Table 4). The IEC produced for
the STBF are as follows:
Table 4. List of IEC materials produced and distributed.
TITLE OF PUBLICATION TYPE SOURCE OF

FUND
Brochures/Leaflets
Agpatubotayo iti Kawayan Three-fold leaflet CHED
Agaramidtayo iti Uring Manipud iti Kawayan Three-fold leaflet CHED
Agmulatayo iti Kawayan Three-fold leaflet CHED
Padur-asen ti Industria ti Kawayan Brochure TGP
Posters in Tarpaulin Format
MS and Enhanced Practices on STBF STBF Project
Bamboo Production and Rejuvenation
Some 150 copies of technology brochures were distributed during each

TFD. Aside from these, other bamboo-reading related materials were distributed
to university students and walk-in clients.

Press and radio broadcast. To maximize the potential of all information
media in disseminating S&T interventions, articles were written and published in
various platforms in the province. Among these are:
ARTICLE /YEAR DATE PUBLISHED

CY 2008
EXTENSIONIST
MMSU assists three S&T-based farm in Ilocos July 2008
Norte
ILARRDEC REPORTER
Agaramid tayo iti Tea Manure August 2008
MMSU assists three S&T-based farms in I.N.
CY 2009
Newsbriefs:
Extension Directorate at 2008 January
Science and Technology Based-Farm in August-September
Bangui, Ilocos Norte
CY 2010
Newsbriefs: January-February 2010
STBF on Bamboo Rejuvenation and Production
Newsbriefs: March-June 2010
STBF on Bamboo Rejuvenation and Production
Bangui and OPAG FITS Centers Host Farmers January-February 2010
Field Day
Farmers Field Days kadagiti S&T Based- February (Special Issue)
Farms, maisayangkat 2010
Science and Technology Based Farm, Bamboo
Production and Rejuvenation
Ania ti Science and Technology Based Farm
(STBF)
Adopters Training on Bamboo Production and Rejuvenation. To share

the technology interventions of the STBF Project established in Mr. Berry Butacs
farm to more farmers in the region, an Adopters Training on Bamboo Production
and Processing was conducted on January 29-30, 2013. This was held at FITS
Bangui and MMSU Bamboo Development Project, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte.
The training provided knowledge and skills on organic bamboo production,

rejuvenation, and processing to bamboo growers in Bangui and other interested
bamboo growers. Specifically, the participants were able to:

151
1. demonstrate the skills on organic bamboo production and
rejuvenation;
2. learn the bamboo processing technologies;
3. know the importance of bamboo rejuvenation; and
4. appreciate the importance of an organization for bamboo producers
and processors.
Some 53 farmers and development workers from Bangui, Burgos,

Currimao, and Paoay, Ilocos Norte; Lidlidda, Ilocos Sur; and San Fernando, La
Union participated in the training.
The topics discussed were on bamboo nursery establishment and

management; bamboo plantation establishment and management; bamboo
processing; and organizational management. The training also focused on
bamboo production and processing technologies developed by MMSU. The
comparison between the advantages of the farmers and those of the enhanced
STBF practices was shared by the MS.
The trainers included technical experts of the MMSUs Bamboo

Development Project and the faculty of the College of Business Economics and
Accountancy.
Effects of Utilizing S&T Interventions: Comparison on the Yield and Income

of the MS and Enhanced STBF Practices
A. Detailed S&T Intervention

It has been the practice of growers to let the bamboo grow on its own
without integrating any technologies. When the farmers need bamboo poles,
these are simply cut without considering their age or maturity. Usually, cutting is
done for as long as the bolo can reach the bamboo poles.
In the STBF, several silviculture management interventions were

implemented including the selective harvesting matured poles. The technology
interventions followed in the enhanced practice side by side the MS practice for
the three cycles are shown in Table 5.
Organic fertilizer was applied done during the onset of the rainy season
to allow faster nutrients absorption. This was done by digging the soil around the
clump and by covering it with top soil. Moreover, watering or irrigating was done
once a month. However, during summer watering was done twice or thrice a
month depending on rainfall occurrence.

Table 5.S&T interventions in bamboo production and rejuvenation.
FARMERS PRACTICE ENHANCED STBF
Species: Kawayan Tinik (Bambusa Species: Kawayan Tinik (Bambusa
blumeana) blumeana)
Practices: Component technologies
Maintenance Silvicultural Management
No removal of defective and over Removal of defective and over-
mature bamboo poles mature bamboo culms
No re-soiling with organic materials Re-soiling with organic materials.
No marking of poles Marking of poles
No application of fertilizer Application of organic fertilizer @
one sack per clump
No crop protection measures Removal of dry leaves, branches
and other vegetation around the
bamboo clump
No irrigation Watering or irrigating once a month
Harvesting
Cutting of bamboo poles regardless Cutting of matured bamboo poles
of age
Cutting of poles up to the area Cutting of matured bamboo poles
reached by bolo above the first node
To compare the effect of the S&T interventions on Bamboo Production

and Rejuvenation under the MS practice and the enhanced STBF, several
parameters were measured. These include the number of shoots, height of
shoots (m), diameter of shoots (cm), survival rate (%), and the number of
poles.
Table 6 shows that bamboo stands grown under the enhanced practice
recorded more shoots than those under the MS practice. Likewise, the said
shoots under the enhanced practice were taller and thicker in diameter than
those under the MS practice. Moreover, survival rate was higher and the number
of poles in the clumps was higher in the enhanced STBF than those in the MS
practice. These findings were observed across the three cycles. The findings
imply that the S&T interventions under the enhanced practice led to positive
effects in terms of the parameters observed in the STBF.

153
Table 6. Growth performance and shoot production of Bambusa blumea naas
affected by the MS and enhanced practices in the three cycles.
PARAMETERS AVERAGE
MS Practice Enhanced STBF
Number of shoots 31 88
Height of shoots (m) 0.22 0.57
Diameter of shoots (cm) 5.82 8.01
Survival rate (%) 96 99
Number of poles 122 221
Generally, the results of the enhanced practice showed that in the entire
duration of the project, there was a gradual increase in the expenses incurred
along with the increase in the production of shoots and poles.
A moderate increase in added costs was observed across the three STBF
project cycles. Added costs include labor and farm inputs, which were used in the
project. Based on the computation, a total of PhP10,664.00 was spent for the
entire project duration using the S&T intervention. However, it was interesting to
note that the added returns increased every year. This generated income implies
a promising potential that encouraged bamboo farmers to adopt the enhanced
STBF. An average income of PhP21,283.33 was computed for the three cycles.
Moreover, the MS practice was not included in the budget analysis since
there was no input considered for the whole project duration.
In terms of profit, there was a difference between the farmers practice

and the enhanced STBF (Table 7). Comparatively, there was an increase in the
projected income of the enhanced STBF over that of the MS practice in each
cycle. However, during the second cycle, there the profit decreased in the
enhanced STBF set up because of typhoon Pablo that damaged the bamboo
poles in the site. Hence, number of quality poles declined. Among all the cycles
in the enhanced STBF, the third one was the most profitable (PhP15,180.00).
Table 7.Budget analysis of the enhanced STBF for the three cycles.
ADDED COST AND 1ST 2ND 3RD TOTAL AVERAGE

RETURN CYCLE CYCLE CYCLE
Added Cost (PhP) 10,548 10,664 10,780 31,992 10,664.00
Added Return (PhP) 19,920 17,800 25,960 63,680 21,226.66

The computed income from the MS practice was lower than that of the
enhanced STBF. It can be noted that the poles produced in the enhanced prac-
tice had an increasing market value that ranged from P 80.00-110.00 per pole
due to higher quality compared to those produced in the MS practice, which was
priced at P30.00. Prices of poles varied based on the quality of poles. Since the
enhanced STBF produced high quality bamboo poles, it commands a higher
price in the market. Unlike in the MS practice, wherein poles were bought at PhP
30.00 per pole due to poor quality. Hence, the use of the enhanced STBF is
more profitable than that of the MS practice (Table 8).
Table 8. Summary table on profitability analysis.
CYCLE MS ENHANCED NET FINANCIAL

PRACTICE STBF PROFIT IMPACT (PHP)
PROFIT (PHP)
(PHP)
First Cycle 2,550.00 9,372.00 6,822.00
Second Cycle 3,750.00 7,136.00 3,386.00
Third Cycle 4,800.00 15,180.00 10,380.00
General Perception of The MS/Feedback On The Technology Intervention
It was indeed fortunate that MS Berry Butac readily accepted the project
because of his interest in bamboo propagation/production and his inclination on
bamboo handicrafts and furniture. After the inception meeting, Mr. Butac started
to clean his bamboo clumps with the help of his family. The cleaning of the
clumps for the project was completed in six months.
There were instances when Mr. Butac got discouraged to continue on with
the project due to the negative feedback he received from his neighbours and
friends towards the cleaning of his bamboo clumps. There were also times that
he got mad when he found out that bamboo shoots were stolen from the STBF
area. His frustration was aggravated when four bamboo clumps were washed out
by typhoons.
Fortunately, the negative feeling of the MS changed when he observed an

increase in the bamboo shoots produced towards the middle of the second year
of the project. This was due to the application of organic fertilizer and the
irrigation of the clumps during summer. The MS added that cutting bamboo poles
had become more convenient because he was able to do such within the desired
level, without using a ladder to reach taller poles when cutting them.

155
Mr. Butac revealed that his neighbors have started following the practices
employed in his STBF farm such as cleaning and re-soiling their bamboo clumps.
Likewise, he said that he has shared his experiences to some farmers in the
locality who visited his farm.
Because of the success of the STBF project, PCAARRD had provided

additional budget amounting to Php2.5M for implementing the project S&T
Community Based Farm on Improving Production of Quality Bamboo Poles of
Ilocos Norte, which spearheaded by MMSU.
CONCLUSIONS
Based on the findings of the study, the following conclusions were drawn:
A. On the R&D management practices that facilitate the utilization and adoption
of S&T intervention in organic bamboo production:
The proper selection, evaluation, and mobilization of the local team

ensure the utilization and adoption of S&T interventions, particularly
when the commitment of every member is solicited. Specifically,
mobilizing experts and staff can help lessen the work load among
implementers, which contributes to smooth project implementation.
The STBF is in itself a project of partnership. As partners, the

stakeholders are expected to perform their roles in implementing project.
In doing so, they enjoy equity, because they give their best for the
project in whatever form, regardless of their status/stature.
Resource sharing or complementation ensures project sustainability. The

investment of the stakeholders, in whatever amount, quantity or form,
keeps them accountable and responsible for the success and even the
failure of the project.
In terms of fund management, restrictions have been in place, but some

policies have been relatively inflexible. As such, providing crop
production inputs was reported to be delayed, which subsequently
affected the producers yield income.
Problems are part of any project implementation. However, meetings, as

well as planned and unplanned monitoring minimized the negative
impact of the problems.

Employing various technology promotional strategies such as technology
field days, IEC production, press and broadcast releases, and adopters
training hastens the utilization and adoption of S&T interventions.
B. On the effects of utilizing S&T interventions in bamboo production and

rejuvenation:
Interventions in the enhanced practice could lead to production of more

shoots and poles, as well as that of bigger and better quality clums
compared to those under the farmers practice. In fact, poles produced
under the farmers practice grew more slowly, that resulted in to lower
quality poles. The quality of poles produced determined their market
price and the farmers income as well.
Poles produced in the enhanced practice had higher quality which can
be sold at a higher price hence, higher income for the farmer.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the conclusions, the following recommendations need

immediate consideration:
Although the R&D management practices in implementing the STBF can

ensure the utilization and adoption of S&T interventions, their effects
should be quantified in future studies.
Intensive information drive should be done to ensure bamboo growers
adoption of the enhanced practice in the community and other areas.
Such initiatives include:
1. Technology training on bamboo production;

2. Skills training on bamboo processing; and
3. Production and distribution of IEC materials.
A bamboo nursery should be established in every municipality;
MMSU, ILARRDEC, and LGUs should develop a marketing scheme for

widespread utilization; and
A bamboo growers association cooperatives should be organized or

established.

REFERENCES
Alimbuyuguen, M. M, Tinguil, M.F, Gervacio, B.C., Gano, M.R.; and Ibanez, V. S.

2010. Management Innovative Strategies for Sustainability: An Exten-
sion Management Tool in ed. Medrano W.C and Rimando A.M., SUC
Touchstones State Universities and Colleges Showcase of Innovations
and Best Practices, Golden Press, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, Philip-
pines.
Ballantine, J. H. and. Roberts, K.A. 2011. Our Social World, Introduction to So-
ciology, 3rd Ed. Sage Publications, Inc, Canada
Garcia, A.M. et. al, Research (Simplified Guide to Thesis Writing). 2011. Book-
lore Publishing Corporation, Manila
Mercado, C. M. 2006. A New Approach to Thesis Writing, Simplifying Social

Malab, S.C et al. 1999. Agriculture in the Ilocos, Volume I. KawayanTechnol-

ogy.Mariano Marcos State University, Batac, IlocosNorte.
PCARRD. Book Series No. 177. 2008. Financial Analysis of S&T-based Farms
and Investment Packages: A Practitioners Guide Book., PCARRD, Los-
Banos Laguna
http://anythingaboutbamboo.blogspot.com/2010/11/philippine-national-report-on-
bamboo.html, Retrieved on May 25, 2013.
Bamboo. Retrieved at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamboo, May 29, 2013.
http://www.ilocandiarealtor.com/information/geography/bangui.html, Retrieved on
May 12, 2013

The Case of Sugarcane Vinegar Production
Marivic M. Alimbuyuguen, Sherlyn B. Nicolas, Edgar C. Villena,
Virgilio G. Gaudia, Orlando Ofilas, Rhoda T. Garcia, Oscar R. Recta,
German C. Fermin, Elmer V.Santiago and Jaypee Ilacas
INTRODUCTION
Sugarcane production is one of the oldest but remains a booming industry

in the Philippines. From 2003 to 2008, the production, area, and yield per
hectare increased among sugarcane growing regions in the country. From 2007
to 2008 alone, sugarcane production increased by 19.64% (22.24 million MT to
26.60M MT). The increased production was attributed to the expansion of areas
planted to sugarcane (Table 1). (PHL-BAS-CrPS-2008-V2-rep10.pdf).
In 2008, the Western Visayas is the largest producer sharing 13.77M MT

(52%) of the total sugarcane production in the country. Based on the national
statistics the Ilocos Region lags far behind having only 10 percent of the total
sugar production nationwide. However, the sugarcane industry in Region 1 has a
potential considering the increase in production and the yield per hectare from
2007 to 2008.
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Production (mt)
Philippines 25,579,214 22,917,674 24,345,106 22,235,297 26,601,384
Ilocos Region 18,789 18,534 18,784 19,001 19,022
Area (ha)
Philippines 388,627 368,944 392,280 382,956 397,991
Ilocos Region 435 439 438 437 432
Yield per hectare (mt)

Philippines 65.82 62.12 62.06 58.06 66.84
Ilocos Region 43.16 42.26 42.93 43. 45 44.03

Aside from sugar as the main processed product, sugarcane can be
processed as vinegar or Sukang Iloko and wine or basi in the Ilocos. The cane
vinegar is mild, which often used in Filipino cooking. Comparing with rice vinegar,
it is mild though not exactly sweet, but it has a mildly sharp taste that is useful for
pickling ingredients or making sauces.
Laoag City devote 65 ha for sugarcane. Sugarcane farmers either process

the juice into vinegar or sold them to processors. Vinegars are sold locally,
particularly in the market, and sometimes sold to nearby municipalities.
However, vinegars produced by various processors varied in color, taste,

and quality because of the production and fermentation scheme. With vinegar as
a one town one product (OTOP), the Local Government (LGU) of Laoag City is
adamant to standardize the quality, color, and taste coupled with proper bottling
and labeling. This could only be attained by using appropriate technology and be
shared to processors.
Constraints on production and processing beset the sugarcane industry.

Most of the farmers are still using traditional varieties that produce low yield.
Likewise, unhygienic and unsanitary processing methods are still practiced. The
unavailability of quality standards resulted in varied vinegar color, quality, and
taste of the product, which resulted in lower market price.
Through the establishment of STBF, the project aimed to increase the

quality of vinegar via the S&T interventions that could improve the production,
taste, and color, as well as that of shortening the fermentation period. MMSU has
technology that could improve the quality of vinegar in order to expand its
commercialization at local, national, and international markets.
Duration of the project. The STBF on Sugarcane Vinegar Production was

conducted in three cycles from March 27, 2008 to December 14, 2010.
Specifically, the first cycle was conducted from March 27, 2008 to January 8,
2009; the second cycle, from February 17, 2009 to January 14, 2009; and the
third cycle, from January 21, 2010 to December 14, 2010.

cycles following the interventions on the enhanced technology and the MS
practice. The farmer used VMC 86-550 variety to increase the quantity of
sugarcane juice. The recommended planting distance and organic processed
chicken manure application were followed in the enhanced practice. However,
the unavailability of the area for the second cycle because of earlier commitment

to a private seed company, the first and third cycles were conducted in the same
site.
Significance of the project. Eco-tourism is one of the priority programs of

the Provincial Local Government Unit. With the increasing tourists visiting the
province, a growing demand for Ilocos vinegar or Sukang Iloko was observed in
and outside the province. Moreover, for Ilocanos, the Sukang Iloco is
irreplaceable by any other commercial vinegar available in the market. In fact,
this has become a favorite pasalubong to relatives abroad. As such, the product
has export potential.
Through the S&T interventions on sugarcane vinegar production, clean

and sanitary procedure is expected to be followed by sugarcane processors to
come up with quality vinegar, which is comparable with commercially-available
vinegar in the local and foreign market. Likewise, sugarcane growers would
benefit from the S&T interventions that could increase their production and
income.
METHODOLOGY
The STBF on Sugarcane Vinegar Production was established in the farm of

Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) Virgilio G. Gaudia in Brgy. 56 Bacsil South, Laoag
City, Ilocos Norte. His 3.25-hectare farm is located near his residence with some
parcels scattered several meters away from his home. His farm is devoted to
sugarcane production, off-season vegetables, and rice during the wet season;
and garlic and mungo during the dry season.
Laoag City is a first class city in Ilocos Norte. It is the capital city of Ilocos
Norte, and the provinces political, commercial, and industrial hub. It is
the location of the Ilocos regions only commercial airport. It is located at the west
central part of the province bordering the South China Sea. It is bounded on
the east by the municipality of Sarrat; southeast by San Nicolas; southwest by
Paoay; northeast by Vintar; northwest by Bacarra; and west by the South China
Sea (http://inorte.org/?page_id=452, Retrieved, May, 2013).
Moreover, Laoag City has a total land area of 12,747.35 ha or 127.4735 sq

km and populated by 94,466 residents in 2000. It is composed of 80 barangays,
30 of which are urban and 50, rural. Of the total land area, 1,476.9909 ha is
occupied by the urban core while 11,270.3591 by the rural barangays. In the
northeastern part of the city are hills and the highest peak is located in Barangay
Bacsil North, 183 feet above sea level. Bacsil is characterized as sloping to
moderately steep (http://www.laoagcity.gov.ph/index.php?
option=com_content&view=article&id=13&Itemid=52, Retrieved May, 2013).
161
The climate of Ilocos Norte, which includes Laoag City, is generally
classified as first type of Philippine climate and characterized by two well-
pronounced seasonsdry and wet. Dry season usually starts in November and
ends in April and during the rest of the year is wet. The city is shielded from
northeast monsoon and trade winds by the mountain ranges of Cordillera and
Sierra Madre but it is exposed to the southeast monsoon and cyclone storms.
The rainy season, which has an average monthly rainfall of more than
100mm is from May to September with its peak in June, July, and
August. Rainfall during the peak month represents 68% of the annual rainfall
with an average of 200mm. Temperature is very warm during the summer
months and very cold during the cold months. In the afternoons of May,
temperature reaches up to 36.22C and drops down to 24.4C in the early
mornings of January. The city recorded an average temperature of 27.25 C with
a relative humidity of 75.55% in 1996.The city experiences an average of four to
five typhoons every year.
The soil type mapped as an irregular strip of land along Casili, and found
extending from Balacad to Cavit and Bascsil, is the San Manuel Sandy Loam.
The surface soil is very pale brown to brown sandy loam; loose and very friable;
25 to 30 cm deep. The boundary with the lower layer is diffusing. The subsoil is
pale brown fine sandy loam and very friable. Its lower boundary is about 110 cm
from the surface. This layer is undertaken by yellowish brown sandy loam to fine
sand; loose and friable. The boundary with the upper layer is diffused. (http://
www.laoagcity.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=
article&id=14&Itemid=53, Retrieved May, 2013). Bacsil South is one of the
sugarcane and sukang Iloco producing barangays in Laoag City.
Data Gathering Procedure. Qualitative and quantitative approaches

were employed in data gathering. The local team spearheaded the project
implementation. Regular monitoring was conducted to ensure smooth
implementation. Further, crop cut was conducted every cycle. Data gathered
every year were presented during the field day.
Data Processing and Analysis. The project was well-documented,

particularly on all activities that serve as venue for data collection. Production
yield and income were the major variables measured in the study. A comparison
of these variables was done in the enhanced practice and the MS practice.
Partial-budget analysis (PBA) was used as well to assess the economic viability
of the interventions/component technologies used in the enhanced and the MS
practices.

This part discusses the R&D management practices in utilizing and

adopting the S&T interventions in sugarcane vinegar production and their effects.

Facilitate Utilization and Adoption on S&T Interventions on Sugarcane
Vinegar Production
The R&D management practices included in the study were

organizational dynamics, partnership, resource sharing, and technology
promotion.
Selection of the Local Team. In the selection of the local team, the
PMA mobilized experts in the Mariano Marcos State University. The subject
matter specialists on sugarcane production come from the College of Agriculture,
Food, and Sustainable Development (CAFSD), those on sugarcane processing
from the College of Arts and Sciences, and the economist from the College of
Business Economics and Accountancy (CBEA).
For both the host FITS and PMA, the addition of other members of the
local team means sharing the burden in terms of implementing the project. Since
the ISS and TSS were part of the TGP management team in the FITS Centers,
they can readily assist and help the FITS center manager in the STBF. More
often than not, they represented the FITS manager in the activities of the STBF.
It was observed that the ISS and TSS directly worked with the MS. Apparently,
the ISS and TSS had more time to conduct field monitoring than the FITS
manager.
For the PMA counterpart, a focal person specifically for the STBF,
Table 1. Composition of the STBF local team.
FITS STAFF PERSON INVOLVED
Magsasaka Syentista Mr. Virgilio G. Gaudia
FITS Manager Mr. Oscar R. Recta
Information Services Specialist Mr. German C. Fermin
Technology Services Specialist Mr. Elmer V. Santiago
MMSU-PMA
Team Leader Dr. Marivic M. Alimbuyuguen
Focal Person Mr. Edgar C. Villena
Technical Expert on production Prof. Orlando Ofilas
Technical Expert on processing Prof. Rhoda T. Garcia
Administrative Ms. Cresencia B. Sebastian

163
supervised by the Extension Directorate, was also assigned to assist the focal
person, (Extension Director), in implementing the project. When the focal person
was not available for the STBF activities, the focal person specifically for the
STBF, served as her alter-ego in the local team. The team was composed of the
following:
Selection and evaluation of the MS. Prior to the establishment of the

STBF, the MS was selected and screened based on the criteria provided by
PCARRD. In implementing the STBF, the MS was further evaluated in terms of
his commitment and understanding of the STBF principles.
Mr. Virgilio Gaudia was appointed by ILARRDEC as Magsasaka Siyentista

(MS) for Laoag on March 4, 2008. He is a leader and model to other farmers as
manifested by his active involvement in various organizations. He is a committee
chairperson for audit of the Bacsil North Cooperative; former chairperson of the
Barangay Agriculture and Fishery Council (BAFC); auditor of the City Agriculture
and Fishery Council; and barangay secretary. Likewise, he is a member of the
San Joaquin Multipurpose Cooperative and the Matoc Zanjera Multipurpose
Cooperative.
Moreover, the MS attended various seminars and training programs

conducted by the different agencies in the region. Whatever he learned, he put it
into practice. Because of this, he excelled in his farming operations. He was
awarded as Highest Yielder in Rice (1998) and Outstanding Farmer (1999) by
the Laoag City Government. He was also chosen as Best Farmer Cooperator of
MMSU for the Rice Seed Dispersal Project in 2003. Additionally, he won the
Pinaka Mango (2005) and Pinaka Garlic (2007), both awarded by the City
Government of Laoag. With his accomplishments in sugarcane industry, he was
awarded by the Department Agriculture Regional Field Unit as Outstanding
Sugarcane Farmer Nominee and regional finalist during the Gawad Saka Search
for 2010-2011 given in December 2011. Likewise, the City Government
recognized him as winner in the Provincial level for the 2009-2010 Gawad Saka
Search for Outstanding Agricultural Achievers given during the 24 th Agriculture
Sector Day at the City Hall in Laoag City. Recently, he has served as resource
speaker for sugarcane production in various training programs conducted by
MMSU.
Mobilization of the local team. The technical experts were designated

by the MMSU President and RRDCC Chair and the ILARRDEC Director.
Meanwhile, the FITS Center staff were designated by the city mayor of the host
agency. A focal person from the extension directorate, who served as the
counterpart of the technical-expert from an academic unit of MMSU and the FITS
center was designated by the extension director. Designations were also given
to the FITS staff from the Office of the Provincial Agriculture (OPAG)-FITS

Center to directly assist the MS. For the STBF on sugarcane, there were two
technical expertsone for sugarcane production and another for sugarcane
processing.
initiated by ILARRDEC. The team met to identify, orient, and finalize the
responsibilities of the local team. The meeting also served as venue for
discussing the issues and concerns in the project implementation as well as in
addressing such.
The MS was the direct implementer of the S&T interventions. Meanwhile,

the FITS center staff, who is usually the ISS and TSS, directly supervised the
MS, more specifically on his compliance to the S&T interventions as prescribed
in the approved project proposal. On the other hand, the technical expert guided
the MS in the grounding of the specific S&T interventions. The focal person
served as the local team leader and assisted by the STBF focal person.
Meetings with the FITS management staff. Regular meetings and

monitoring activities were conducted to ensure that the emerging problems were
responded by the local team. These also served as venue to update the team on
the guidelines in implementing the project.
MOA signing. Like the other STBF, a Memorandum of Agreement

(MOA) was forged between and among various stakeholders to formalize
involvement of all key partners. These included the funding agency, PCARRD-
ILARRDEC, LGU-Laoag City, and MMSU. Resource sharing and counter-parting
were evident among the stakeholders who implemented the (Table 2)

PCARRD, and prior to the submission of the proposal, an inception meeting was
conducted to finalize the different S&T interventions in the STBF. The activity
was attended by the members of the Local Team and the Regional Coordinator
of the TGP.
The discussion was focused on the existing practices of MS Gaudia, the

proposed technology interventions, the projects financial viability, the work and
financial plan, and other important activities to be undertaken in the establishing
and implementing the STBF. Table 3 presents the MS practices and S&T
interventions for the STBF project as agreed upon and finalized during the
inception meeting.

165
IMPLEMENTER/ RESOURCE - COUNTERPART

STAKEHOLDER
DOST-PCARRD Provided financial fund grant
implementation
ILARRDEC Served as coordinating body;
Provided capability enhancement
training
MMSU Provided technical experts,
manpower, and other resources
LGU-Laoag City Provided technical assistance
through the FITS Center staff (FITS
Manager, TSS, and ISS), and other
resources
MS Virgilio Gaudia Provided the land and labor for the
STBF and supported the FITS
center.
Promotional strategies of the S&T interventions in the STBF on

Sugarcane Vinegar Production were adopted. These included technology field
day, IEC materials production, press and broadcast releases, adopters training,
and trade fairs and exhibits. Table 4 presents the field days conducted during
the three cycles.
IEC materials production and distribution. The distribution of IEC to

participants strengthens their learning from the TFD. During the first TFD, the
documented MS practice was published. In addition, the preliminary results of
the S&T were featured. In the second cycle TFD, the S&T interventions were
highlighted and a comparison between the MS and enhanced practice was
presented. During the third TFD, the S&T interventions and their impact were
likewise presented, particularly the differences in yield and income between the
two set-ups.
The IEC materials produced for the STBF include the following:
A. Posters. Among the posters on sugarcane technology that were produced

during TFD are:
Basi formulation and suka preparation
Processing of sugarcane juice for both basi and suka
Processing of sugarcane into suka using the traditional method
Processing of sugarcane into basi using the traditional method

Table 3. Technology components and activities in the sugarcane vinegar
Production.
ACTIVITY MS PRACTICE ENHANCED AREAS OF
Planting December-January December-January None
Schedule
Varieties Yellow java VMC 86-550 Improved variety
used for higher
sugarcane juice
production
Land Soil is plowed of Soil is plowed to a None
Preparation 20cm deep, depth of 20cm,
followed by followed by
harrowing harrowing
Distance of 0.6m between rows 1.5m between rows Increased
Planting 0.6m between hills 0.50m between production of
double rows; 20cm sugarcane
to 30cm between
hills
Fertilizer 0.5 bag of 21-0-0 30 bags organic Improved soil
Management applied on or processed chicken structure and
before planting and manure, 18 kg 14- reduced the
0.5 bag 14-14, 36kg 16-20- application of
sidedressed, 2-3 0, and 4 kg 0-0-60 inorganic fertilizer
months after applied as basal;
planting. and 37kg 46-0-0
applied as side
dress, 2-3 months
after planting.
Water 2L of water per hill 2L of water per hill None
Management upon planting and upon planting and
as needed as need arises
Integrated As needed As needed None
Pest
Management
Harvesting 8-12 months after 8-12 months after None

planting planting
Crushing Animal drawn Crusher machine Faster and more
crusher sanitary juice
Boiling 2 hours 2 hours None
Sugarcane
Juice

167
Table 3 continuation.
ACTIVITY MS PRACTICE ENHANCED AREAS OF

Use of Use of Samak Use of Samak Used of microbial
Indigenous leaves, bark, and leaves, bark, and culture (yeast and
Materials fruits per jar at fruits per jar at the bacterial
(samak) the following following ratio: inoculums/mother
ratio: 1kg dried leaves vinegar) to hasten
1kg dried leaves kg dried ground fermentation
kg dried fruits
ground fruits kg ground bark
kg ground bark 1 gal mother vinegar/
bacterial inoculums
200 g dried yeast.
Storing Store sugarcane Store sugarcane Sanitized
Sugarcane juice in used juice in new, clean, fermentation
Juice in Jar containers and sanitized process.
containers
Covering Cover jar with Cover the jar tightly Improved
Storage Jar dried banana with plastic and covering to
leaves and earthen cover prevent entry of
earthen cover organism
Stir the mixture Stir the mixture after
after 3 days 3 days
Fermentation Fermentation Fermentation period Shortened

period 6-7 2-4 months fermentation
months period
Fermentation Backyard Clean and organized Improved product

plant fermentation plant processing plant
Quality control None Chemical analysis Controlled

measure product quality
control
Packaging and Packaged in Packaged and Improved
Labeling used containers labeled in new and packaging and
without labels prescribed labeling
containers.

Table 4. Technology Field Days conducted in the STBF by the PMA.
TECHNOLOGY DATE PARTICIPANT

FIELD DAYS
Organic-Based January 8, 2009 79 farmers, housewives, media
Sugarcane practitioners, Agricultural
Production Technicians, staff from LGU-
Laoag City, Laoag City FITS
Management Staff; MS farmers,
ILARRDEC, OPAG, and MMSU
Organic-Based January 14, 2010 57 farmers, housewives, media
Sugarcane practitioners, Agricultural
Production Technicians, staff from LGU
Laoag City Agriculture Office,
Burgos, Sarrat, and Bangui,
Organic-Based December 14, 32 farmers, housewives, media

Sugarcane 2010 practitioners, Agricultural
Production Technicians, staff from LGU
Laoag City Agriculture Office,
Burgos, Sarrat, and Bangui,
Preparation of basi and suka

Enhanced practices on sugarcane production
Farmers practices on sugarcane production
Harvesting of sugarcane
B. Leaflets. Several leaflets were produced on sugarcane production and

processing These are:
Sugarcane processing incubation project
Improved indigenous fermentation technologies for basi and sukang
Iloko
Agaramidtayo iti suka ken basi
Agmulatayo ti unas
Sugarcane production
C. Press Releases. Articles regarding the activities of the STBF on

vinegar production were published in the Extensionist newsletter. The
Extensionist is a bi-monthly publication of the extension directorate to
highlight the different accomplishments and activities of the office
(Table 5).
D. Radio Programs. Activities conducted in the STBF were continuously

aired through the MMSU Rimat ti Ilocandia Program over DWFB Radyo
ng Bayan Laoag City every 10-11 a.m on Wednesdays.

169
Adopters Training. To disseminate and showcase the S&T interventions
of the STBF Project established in the farm of Mr. Virgilio Gaudia, a training on
sugarcane production and processing was conducted on April 26, 2011. This was
held at the MMSU University Training Center, City of Batac.
Specifically, the adopters training was conducted to:
1) disseminate the information and technology within and outside the

project area; 2) increase productivity and income of the beneficiaries by using
S&T interventions in the STBF; 3) accomplish/meet the target of 30 adopters at
the end of the STBF project.
Twenty-one sugarcane farmers and development workers from

Pasuquin, Nueva Era, Paoay, and San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte participated in the
training. During such training, the topics discussed were on: organic-based
sugarcane production; sugarcane vinegar and basi processing; and product
packaging and labeling.
Mr. Virgilio Gaudia discussed sugarcane production by highlighting on

the S&T interventions in the STBF. These include the use of improved variety,
application of organic processed chicken manure, and improved processing
techniques. A field visit at the MMSU-CHED sugarcane processing incubation
project was also held after the training.
Table 5. Articles published in the Extensionist on STBF on Vinegar

Production.
TITLE OF ARTICLE DATE OF NO. OF
PUBLICATION COPIES
State-of-the-art sugarcane December 2008 150 copies
facility now ready
MMSU conducts skills training January 2009 150 copies
on advanced sugarcane
production and processing
technologies
State-of-the-art sugarcane January 2009 150 copies
facility now ready to serve
sugarcane growers in the
Ilocos
Newsbrief on STBF on vinegar January-February 2010 150 copies
and basi production
Newsbrief on STBF on vinegar March-June 2010 150 copies
and basi production
MMSU conducts skills training March-April 2011 150 copies
on sugarcane production and
processing

II. Effects of Utilizing S&T Interventions in Sugarcane Vinegar Production:
Comparison on the Yield and Income of the MS Practice and Enhanced
Practice
The detailed technology interventions for sugarcane production under

the MS and enhanced practices are presented in Table 6.
The S&T interventions that were compared included both production and
processing. Specifically, varieties, distance of planting, and fertilizer management
were emphasized under sugarcane production. On the other hand, the use of
samak as indigenous material for fermentation, length of fermentation period,
quality control by testing acidity, and packaging and labeling were focused under
sugarcane vinegar processing.
Samak (Macaranga tanarius) leaves are used in fermenting vinegar. It is

a small tree native to Southeast Asia which is used for medicinal purposes. In the
Philippines, it is an ingredient in the famous Ilocos vinegar. The leaves and bark
are used in fermented drinks. Noted for its nasturtium-like leaves with the stem
entering almost at the center of the leaf, samak is grown as an ornamental plant
in tropical areas and is listed by the USDA as a common invasive in Hawaii.
(http://www.clovegarden.com/ingred/sr_spurge.html).
The MS successfully completed the three cropping cycles by strictly

following the S&T interventions under the enhanced and the MS practice. For
the enhanced practice, the MS used the new variety of sugarcane VMC 86-550
to produce more juice. He followed the distance of planting for higher number of
stolons that increased sugarcane juice production. Likewise, he applied organic
processed chicken manure to lessen inorganic fertilizer use. The period of
fermentation was shortened from 6-7 months in the farmers practice to 2-4
months in the enhanced practice. Chemical analysis was also done to test the
acidity of the vinegar. Appropriate labeling and packaging were used in the
enhanced practice. Later on, the products were displayed and sold during trade
fairs and exhibits. However, during the second cycle, there was a decrease in
the area planted due to the transfer of the farm site. Nevertheless, the same site
and farm size was used in the first and third cycles.
Enterprise Performance Data
During the first cycle, more sugarcane juice was produced under the MS
practice (1,952 L) than that of the enhanced practice (1,840 L) (Table 7).
However, the enhanced practice had higher sale (P64, 400.00) than that of the
MS practice (P35,957.89). This was due to the differences in the marketing
171
Table 6. S&T interventions followed in the enhanced practice and the
MS practice during the first, second, and third cycles.

Table 7. Production (L) and sales (PhP) of sugarcane vinegar under the
MS practice and enhanced practice from the first to the
third cycle.
CYCLE PRODUCTION SALES (PhP)
MS ENHANCED MS ENHANCED
PRACTICE PRACTICE (19L/1botilion (1 L @ P35.00)
@P 350.00)
1ST Cycle 1,952 L 1,840 L 35,957.89 64,400.00
nd
2 Cycle 3,088 L 4,080 L 56,884.21 142,800.00
rd
3 Cycle 2,640 L 3,856 L 48,631.58 134,960.00
strategies under the MS practice, the products were sold in botillion (term used
by farmers to refer to big bottle with 19L capacity) at P350.00 per botillion, while
those of the enhanced practice used the prescribed and labeled plastic bottles
with 1L capacity which was sold at P35.00 per liter.
During the second cycle, more sugarcane juice was produced in the
enhanced practice (4,080 L) than that of the MS practice (3,088 L).
Consequently, higher sale was obtained in the enhanced practice amounting to
P142, 800.00, only P56, 884.21 was sold under the MS practice.
Similarly, more sugarcane juice was again produced from the enhanced
practice (3,856 L) than that of the MS practice (2,640 L) during the third cycle.
This accounted for a higher sale under the former (P134,960.00) than that of
latter (48,631.58). The S&T interventions applied in the enhanced practice were
successful and more beneficial to the MS. The shortened fermentation period
contributed to higher production. Further, the labeling and packaging enhanced
the products value; hence, they were more saleable in the market. By using
samak leaves as an improvement of the Ilocos vinegar, the product tested better
and its color was darker than the vinegar which used yeast and bacterial
inoculums.
Partial budget analysis was done to assess the impact of the enhanced
practice and the MS practice in producing sugarcane vinegar under the STBF of
MS Virgilio Gaudia. It was found that during the first cycle, the MS practice
obtained a higher yield (1,952 L) than that of the enhanced practice (1,840 L).
But in terms of sales, the enhanced practice realized a higher sale of P64,400.00
than that of the MS practice, which amounted to P35,957.89. As mentioned
earlier, this was due to the difference in the mode of marketing products. Botillion
with 19L content priced at P350.00 was used in the MS practice while at 1L bottle
and priced at P35.00/L was used in the enhanced practice. It was noted that

173
Table 8. Partial budget analysis for sugarcane vinegar production.
CYCLE MS PRACTICE NET ENHANCED NET

CHANGE PRACTICE CHANGE
A (Costs) B A (Costs) B (Benefits)
Income (Benefits) Income Income
Reducing Income Reducing Increasing
(PhP) Increasing (PhP) (PhP)
(PhP)
First 3,041.00 35,957.89 32,916.00 40,815.20 64,400.00 23,584.80
Second 2,051.00 56,884.21 54,833.21 37,618.91 142,800.00 107,357.18
Third 2,691.00 48,629.00 45,668.00 67,436.00 134,960.00 67,436.00
expenses were allotted to S&T interventions like fertilizer, jars, packaging,

chemical analysis, among others during the first cycle of the enhanced practice.
Hence, even if the enhanced practice realized higher sales, it had lower profit
compared to that of the MS practice because of the added costs incurred (Table
8). Meanwhile, the area was reduced (1,088m2) during the second cycle as
compared to the first and third cycles (1,628 m2). The STBF area was relocated
as the former site was used for seed production by a private company. Findings
show that the enhanced practice obtained higher yield (4,080 L) than the MS
practice (3,088 L). Consequently, higher sales were recorded in the enhanced
practice amounting to P142, 800.00 as compared to that of the MS practice
amounting to P56,884.21.
Moreover, in the third cycle, the same area (1628 m2) as that of the first
cycle was planted with sugarcane for the MS and enhanced setup. It was found
that given the same area, the production of the enhanced practice is higher
(3,856 L) than that of the MS practice (2,640 L). As a result, a higher profit was
also obtained from the enhanced practice, which is P67,524.67, while that of the
MS practice which is 45,668.00. Those results imply that in the long run, the
enhanced practice is more profitable than the MS practice (Fig.1).
C. General Perception of the MS and Feedback on the S&T Intervention
MS Virgilio Gaudia and his family were hesitant to get involved in the
STBF on sugarcane vinegar production when it was first introduced to them.
However, towards the project completion, he and his wife happily claimed that
the STBF had helped them in their vinegar production. This is manifested by the
numerous benefits that they have realized.
MS Gaudia gladly informed the STBF local team that with the enhanced
practice, he was able to harvest more juice in his farm as compared to the
volume of harvest when he followed the traditional sugarcane production

practices. He also mentioned that weeds in the STBF enhanced practice area
were easily pulled. He believed that this was because of the organic fertilizer
applied, which improved soil friability and quality.
Likewise, he said that with the application of organic fertilizer which is

one S&T interventions, their farm soil has improved tremendously. He added that
even though organic farming requires more labor and materials, benefits gained
cannot be equaled. He emphasized that with the use of the interventions, he had
higher sugarcane production which was translated to higher income.
The MS revealed that the STBF on sugarcane production had been a

learning venue for students, agricultural technicians not only in Ilocos Norte but
also in other provinces. Additionally, the MS was grateful that more consumers
have known his vinegar products which was a consequence of improving their
packaging and labeling.
CONCLUSIONS
From the findings of the STBF, the following conclusions are drawn:
The S&T interventions for the sugarcane vinegar production particularly

on the use of VMC 86-550 varieties and the optimum planting distance
recorded more juice production as indicated by the higher yield in the
enhanced practice than that of the MS practice.
The use of organic fertilizer can improve the quality of the soil; hence, it
can enhance the cultural management of the sugarcane and can
contribute to higher production. Benefits of organic farming cannot be

175
observed instantly during the first year of application; however, its effect
on grid productivity can be seen in the succeeding years.
In sugarcane processing, the use of bacterial inoculums can shorten the

fermentation period from 6-7 months to 2-4 months with a standard acidity
of 6%. Likewise packaging sugarcane vinegar in new, clean, and
sanitized containers, and specifying the acidity analysis in the label
reinforce product presentation and value.
The Ilocano consumers prefer the vinegar with samak leaves as the smell
and color are more acceptable to them. In the end, it is the consumers
preference that prevails. However, on the part of the manufacturer, the
use of yeast is better since it shortens the fermentation period and
ensures the standard quality and marketability of sugarcane vinegar
among other consumers.
Packaging and marketing sugarcane vinegar using a standard weight

results in higher income and profit of the sugarcane grower and
processor.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the conclusions of the study, the following recommendations

are forwarded:
The distance of planting, application of processed chicken manure, use of

VMC 86-550 variety in the enhanced practice resulted to higher yield. As
those technology components should be adopted.
The use of covered jars ensures safe and clean processed vinegar.
Likewise, proper packaging and labelling are indispensable in marketing
the product. Acidity level indicated in the packaging is also an additional
value of the product. All of which should be formally considered by
vinegar processors as well.
The use of samak leaves is recommended for Ilocano consumers who

prefer darker color and stronger acidic/sour taste of vinegar. In
fermentation, the use of yeast is also recommended to be done by
manufacturers with non-Ilocano consumers.
The use of standard measurement in the quantity of products sold is

recommended for farmers to get the most out of their product.

REFERENCES

2010, Management Innovative Strategies for Sustainability: An
Extension Management Tool in ed. Medrano W.C and Rimando A.M.,
SUC Touchstones State Universities and Colleges Showcase of
Innovations and Best Practices, Golden Press, Tuguegarao City,
Cagayan, Philippines.
Ballantine, J. H. and Roberts, K.A, 2011, Our Social World, Introduction to

BAR, 2008. Situation Report on Major Vegetables and Roots, January-March,

2008, Vol. 1 No. 1 BAR, 2008, PHL-BAS-CrPS-2008-rep.pdf, May, 2013.
Department of Agriculture RFU1, 2013. Agri-Pinoy High Crops Development

Program Accomplishment Report, April 2013, Province of Ilocos Norte.
Garcia, A.M. et. al, Research (Simplified Guide to Thesis Writing), 2011,
Ilocos Norte, Laoag City. Retrieved from http://www.ilocandiarealtor.com/

informant. May 2013.

MPDO, 2010. Retrieved from http://inorte.org/?page_id=429, May 2013.
PCARRD Book Series No. 177, 2008, Financial Analysis of S&T-based Farms
and Investment Packages: A Practitioners Guide Book., PCARRD, Los
Banos Laguna

and Investment Packages: A Practitioners Guide Book., PCARRD, Los
Banos Laguna
STBF on Organic-Based Sugarcane Vinegar and Basi Production, 2012. Paper

presented during the 24th Regional Symposium on R and D Highlights,
MMSU, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte
Terminal Report, STBF on Organic-Based Sugarcane Vinegar and Basi Produc-

tion, 2011. Mariano Marcos State University, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte.
http://www.laoagcity.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1
3&Itemid=52, Retrieved on May, 2013.
http://www.clovegarden.com/ingred/sr_spurge.html, Retrieved on May 22, 2012

The Case of Table Tomato Production
Sherlyn B. Nicolas, Marivic M. Alimbuyuguen, Bella C. Gervacio,
Honorio dela Cruz,Segundo Dutdut, Lolita Raposas,
May Damaso Pascua, Ruby Saoit and Marilou Lucas
INTRODUCTION
Tomato is one of the most popular vegetables in the world. With the help
of modern irrigation technology, this crop can grow all-year round. Top tomato-
producing countries in 2008 (million tons) were: China 33.8; USA 12.5; Turkey
11.0; India 10.3; and Italy 6.0 (http://www.naandanjain.com/upload/catalogerfiles/
tomato2/ Retrieved May 28, 2013).
In the Philippines, tomato production increased from 150 thousand

metric tons (mt) in 2003 to 196 thousand mt in 2008or an average annual growth
rate of 5.6 percent. Area increased from 16.8 thousand hectares in 2003 to 17.6
thousand hectares in 2008 with an annual growth rate of 1.0 percent. Average
yield recorded an annual growth rate of 4.5 percent from 8.9 mt per hectare in
2003 to 11 mt per hectare in 2008 (Table 1).
Table 1.Tomato production, area, and yield per hectare, Philippines vs. Ilocos
Region, 2003-2008.
YEAR
Production (mt)
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Philippines 150,055 172,344 173,740 175,596 188,761 195,810

Ilocos Region 52,916 58,079 55,326 54,253 60,827 61,747
Area (Ha)
Philippines 16,779 17,687 17,731 17,128 17,544 17,646
Ilocos Region 3,892 4,119 3,901 3,775 3,866 3,793
Yield Per
Hectare (mt)
Philippines 8.94 9.74 9.80 10.25 10.76 11.10
Ilocos Region 13.60 14.10 14.18 14.37 15.73 16.28

179
The Ilocos region was the consistent top producer of the countrys total
tomato production with 62 thousand mt production in 2008 (31.53%). The other
top producing regions and their shares to the total production were Northern
Mindanao, 25.77%; Central Luzon, 10.63%; and CALABARZON, 8.25%
(beans.bas.gov.ph/index.php/ catalog/10/download/71, Retrieved May 28, 2013).
In Ilocos Norte, one of widely-grown crops by ordinary and resource-

limited farmers is tomato. Data from the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field
Unit 1 reveals that as of April 2013, a total of 315.75 ha was planted to tomatoes,
with an area harvested totaling to1,075.35 mt, and production of 22,399.63 mt.
There are two types of tomato being planted, the processing and the
table tomato. Tomato as a seasonal crop is the most commonly-sold vegetable-
fruit in the market. It is not only nutritious, but it also complements different
vegetable dishes. However, farm production is deterred by the prevalence of
pests and diseases and unpredictable climatic conditions. The challenge then is
to produce organically-grown and pesticide-free table tomato earlier than its
regular planting season, that is from November to December. Organic farming
enhances natural resources, preserves the environment's balance and
guarantees tastier products. It does not involve any chemical and so it produces
safe and healthy food. In organic farming all stages from production to
consumption can be observed (http://www.agricultureguide.org/importance-of-
organic-farming-in-terms-of-food-safety/, Retrieved May 28, 2013).
Duration of the project. The STBF on table tomato production was

conducted in three cycles, from crop year September 2007 to January 2010.

cropping cycles. For the enhanced practice the interventions were: nutrient
management using tea manure, fermented plant juice (FPJ), and fermented fruit
juice (FFJ); and pest management applying a biological pesticide (Xentari/Halt).
For the MS practice, inorganic fertilizers and chemicals were applied for nutrient
and pest management, respectively. Moreover, processing was done in its
second cycle since there was an oversupply of tomato. While the guidelines
provide that the STBF should be established in one site for all the three cycles,
different areas were used for the three cycles for circumstances beyond the
control of the MS.
Significance of the project. Since organic fertilizer is the best food for
plants, the S&T farm was established to showcase the production of table tomato
using organic material (dried chicken dung) to rebuild and preserve soil
productivity. Likewise, applying organic fertilizer maintains quality soil texture,

soil moisture, and microbial conditions, as well as its capability to nurture plant
life through constant recycling and parenting. Thus, the nutrient content of the
soil is built-up instead of depleted after each cropping season. In addition, this
approach eliminates the need for chemical pesticides. The use of organic
pesticides formulated from locally-available materials has no adverse effects on
the environment. Hence, they pose no health hazard to both environment and
consumers. Likewise, tomato growers could benefit from the S&T interventions
when adopted as these increase their production and subsequently their income.
Results of the STBF will also be useful to technical experts and

agriculturists as a ready reference and additional information that can be applied
for further research and be disseminated to their clientele.
METHODOLOGY
Project Site. The STBF on table tomato production was established in

the farm of MS Honorio dela Cruz in Brgy. San Guillermo, San Nicolas, Ilocos
Norte. Since the project requires an elevated land to avoid flooding during rainy
season, the MS rented a piece of land located at the north eastern portion of the
barangay. This area was once a wasteland where ipil-ipil and other shrubs
thrived. Equipped with knowledge in farming, and coupled with patience, he was
able to transform the area into a very productive farm land. However, the owner
of the land did not allow the MS to use the area during the second cycle; thus,
the MS had to transfer the project to another location, which was formerly a
grassy land, but he was again able to make this idle land productive. Yet, in the
third cropping cycle, the project was again transferred to a higher elevation,
because of unfavorable weather conditions that flooded and led to water
stagnation in the area.
San Nicolas is a first class municipality in the province of Ilocos Norte,

Philippines. According to the latest census, it has a population of 33,642 people
residing in 7,423 households. San Nicoleos are famous for their traditionally-
designed pots (called bangas) and their warm hospitality with visitors. It has the
fastest economic and commercial growth among Ilocos Norte municipalities
(www.wikipedia.com, Retrieved May 28, 2013).
It is predominantly an agricultural community producing rice, corn, garlic,

mongo, and tobacco. Agriculture is still the prime source of livelihood of the
community, however, the town is known for different cottage industries such as
pottery/ceramics making, tinsmitting, blacksmithing, CHB making, woodcraft/
furniture making and others. The municipality is located between two cities,
Laoag City and Batac City, hence, the town is now becoming a commercial-
industrial town in the province.

181
Likewise, San Nicolas is predominantly lowland. However, from the
northeast part of the town going east to Dingras, and also going south to Batac
are virgin hills and mountains that are part of the Cordillera Ranges. These hills
and mountains are forested areas. Some parts of the municipality are flood
plains, being low in elevation, and as such, it is affected by the water table of
Laoag (Padsan) River during the rainy season. San Nicolas has its dry and wet
seasons. The wet season usually starts in May and ends in
November. Although, its onset and its duration are altered by the La Nia
phenomenon. The rest of the year is dry. Geographically, San Nicolas is a land-
locked town. Without any portion of seawater within its territory, it is deprived of
marine life. However, it does have a tiny river area found in the towns
northeastern side where the Padsan River flows (http://
www.sannicolasilocosnorte.gov.ph/aboutus.asp, Retrieved May 28, 2013).
Selection of the Local Team. Following PCARRDs guidelines, Table

2 presents the composition of the STBF on table tomato production.
Selection and evaluation of the MS. Mr. Honorio de la Cruz was

selected as the MS of the STBF on table tomato production. Mr. de la Cruz is a
single full-time farmer. He personally does the farming activities. In addition,
he employs two full-time workers to help him during land preparation, irrigation,
and harvesting. His mother, also a hardworking entrepreneur, manages the
marketing of his farm produce.
Table 2. Composition of the STBF on table tomato production.
Staff Position
MMSU
PMA-Focal Person Marivic M. Alimbuyuguen
STBF-Focal Person Bella C. Gervacio
Technical Expert Segundo S. Dutdut
Economist Marilou Lucas
FITS
Lolita Raposas Manager
Ruby Saoit ISS
May Damaso Pascua, TSS
Honoriodela Cruz MS

Before his appointment as MS, Mr. dela Cruz was already producing
hybrid rice and yellow corn. By conscientiously applying the recommended
technologies of these crops, he was able to realize increased production and
high income from his farming activities. Because of this, he was chosen as
Outstanding Corn Farmer in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte. In addition, he also
produced high value commercial crops such as water melon, ampalaya, garlic,
and tomato which are planted after rice cropping season. In 2006, the
municipality of San Nicolas awarded him Outstanding HVCC Farmer. Moreover,
he employs integrated pest management in his mango growing project.
Before his selection as MS, Mr. de la Cruz had been using organic
fertilizer in his farms. He used chicken manure, and rice hull in his rice, corn, and
vegetable crops. By continually applying organic fertilizer, he observed that his
vegetable crops grew robustly. Moreover, he also saved from the cost of
inorganic fertilizers, giving him higher income in return.
Organic farming technologies have long been a practice of MS de la

Cruz. His farm serves as a show window of the modified rapid composting
technology in Ilocos Norte. Rice straw is decomposed in his farm and mixed with
chicken dung and trichoderma. This in turn augments the fertilizer requirement of
his farm for the succeeding cropping season. He finds this technology very
effective in reducing the cost of farm inputs and in increasing the production of all
his crops.
As a result of an inception meeting conducted by the Local Team with

PCARRD, MS practices and S&T interventions were agreed upon (Table 3).
Programmed or regular and non-programmed or surprise or emergency

monitoring was conducted to ascertain that the various project components were
implemented and the different S&T interventions were carried out as agreed
upon. Monitoring is a mechanism in which problems encountered are solved.
Several problems were encountered during the STBF implementation and
solutions were provided by the collaborative efforts of the local team. Among
these are the following:
During the first cycle, a typhoon visited the province three days after the
TDF. The STBF was heavily damaged, which affected the income of the
MS.
In the second cycle, the constraints encountered were: a) poor germination
rate at only 30%, the MS had to sow for the second time for both the MS and
enhanced practice; b) heavy infestation of leaf miner. That was why the MS
applied botanical control using madre de cacao and lagundi leaf extract.
Removal of infected and old leaves was done; and 3) oversupply of tomatoes

183
Table 3.Technology components and activities in the organic-based
table tomato production.
COMPONENT ACTIVITIES
a. Varietal selection Using hybrid and open-pollinated variety
(OPV) seeds.
b. Seed sowing Raising seedling in seedbeds and direct
seeding for MS practice.
Raising seedlings in plastic trays to produce
vigorous seedlings and to eliminate trans-
planting shock with Biocon or Vital N as
inoculants for enhanced practice.
c. Land preparation Using plastic mulch for both the MS and the
enhanced practice to preserve soil moisture
and control weeds.
d. Transplanting Transplanting seedlings in raised beds for
the MS practice.
Making/boring holes in the plastic mulch
with a diameter of 4 in or the size of sar-
dines can at a distance of 0.40 meter be-
tween hills for enhanced practice.
Transplanting 1 seedling/hill late in the af-
ternoon.
e. Fertilizer Management
Application of inorganic Applying basally 3 bags mixture of 14-14-14
fertilizer for the MS and 3 bags 21-0-0.
practice Applying 3 bags mixture of 14-14-14 and 3
bags 21-0-0 30 days after transplanting
(DAT)
Application of organic Using dried chicken manure and rice hull as

fertilizer in the en- basal fertilizer.
hanced practice Drenching with fermented chicken manure
(tea manure) with plant and fruit extracts as
homemade foliar fertilizer at the following
rates:
Tea Manure -Formulation: 50 kg of chicken
manure packed in a sack. Submerge in a
plastic drum containing 200 Lwater. Soak in
1-2 months. Spray on plants at the rate of 1
part tea manure to 5 parts water.
Fermented Plant Juice -Formulation: 1 kg
of thinly cut lagundi and kawkawateleaves
mixed with 1 kg brown sugar or molasses;
packed in a plastic bag and soaked in water
for 5-7 days. Spray on plants at the rate of 1
tbsp of the juice mixed with 1 gal water.

COMPONENT ACTIVITIES
Application of organic Fermented Fruit Juice -Formulation: 1kg of
fertilizer in the en- over ripe/rotten squash, papaya or banana
hanced practice fruits, mixed with 1 kg brown sugar or molas-
ses; packed in a plastic bag and soaked in
water for 5-7 days. Spray on plants at the rate
of 1 tbsp of the juice mixed with 1 gal water.
f. Trellising Constructing trellis for plant support during

early vegetative stage for both MS and en-
hanced practice.
g. Pest and Diseases
Management
Use of chemicals for the Spraying insecticide and fungicides to pre-
MS practice vent and control pest and diseases.
Spraying boron to enhance fruit setting
Practice of IPM for en- Using biological pesticides Xentari or Halt

hanced practice at the rate of 3 tbsp/16L water
Using botanical pesticide (plant extracts)
lagundi and kakawate at the rate of 1 kg ex-
tracted lagundi leaves + 1 kg extracted kaka-
wate leaves for every 100L water.
Using detergent soap or shampoo mixed in 1
sprayer load (16 L capacity)
Removing and burning infected fruits and old
leaves.
h. Harvesting Harvesting ripe tomato
Harvesting matured (green) tomato; storing
in cold storage and disposing when price is
high
at harvest sold at Php2.00-5.00/kg; thus, a value-adding training was

conducted.
For the third cycle, these problems emerged: a) poor germination with a 40%
rate in the first sowing; and 30% in the second sowing; As such, the variety
was changed from Diamante to Diamante Max in the third cycle; b) long
drought delayed transplanting resulting to over-matured seedlings; c) three
typhoons, from September and October 2009 damaged the crop, so,
replanting was done on a staggered basis to complete the third cycle.
Like in the other STBF projects, promotional strategies of the S&T

interventions in table tomato production were implemented. These include

185
technology field day, IEC production, press and broadcast releases, and
adopters training, and trade fairs and exhibits.
Technology field days (TFD). Three TFDs were conducted one each
at end of each cycle (Table 5).
IEC production and distribution. The IEC produced for the STBF are
as follows: a) posters on tomato production for the TFD such as enhanced
practices on organic tomato production and farmers practices on organic-based
tomato production; b). leaflet/brochures on organic-based tomato production.
Among which are Adda Kuarta iti Basura, AgOrganiko nga Abono Itan! , Tomato
Production Technology (Iluko), and Tomato Processing Technology (Iluko); c)
Press releases published in the Extensionist, which is a bi-monthly newsletter of
the Extension Directorate (Table 6); d) Radio programs on activities conducted in
the STBF farm were continuously aired through the MMSU Rimat ti Ilocandia
over DWFB Radyo ng Bayan (Laoag City) every Wednesday 10-11 a.m.
Adopters training. On March 5, 2009, a skills training on tomato

processing was conducted at the College of Industrial Technology, MMSU,
Laoag City to disseminate and showcase the technology interventions of the
STBF project established in the farm of Mr. Honorio dela Cruz.
TECHNOLOGY DATE PARTICIPANT
FIELD DAY
Organic-Based September 100 Farmers & farmer-leaders from
Table Tomato 19, 2008 San Nicolas & neighboring towns of
Production Bacarra, Laoag City, Vintar &
Pasuquin; 30 staff from OPAG-
IlocosNorte, San Nicolas Agriculture
Office, Provincial Government of
IlocosNorte, ILARRDEC, LGU-San
Nicolas, PCARRD & MMSU.
Organic-Based February 12, 52 Farmers & farmer-leaders from San
Table Tomato 2009 Nicolas & neighboring towns of
Production Bacarra, Laoag City, Vintar &
Pasuquin; 23 staff from San Nicolas
Agriculture Office, Provincial
Government of Ilocos Norte,
ILARRDEC, LGU-San Nicolas,
PCARRD & MMSU.
Organic-Based January 15, 42 Farmers & farmer-leaders from San
Table Tomato 2010 Nicolas & neighboring towns of
Production Solsona, Currimao, Batac & Carasi; 25
staff from San Nicolas Agriculture
Office, Provincial Government of Ilocos
Norte, ILARRDEC, LGU-San Nicolas,
PCARRD & MMSU

Table 6. Articles published in the Extensionist Newsletter on STBF on
table tomato production.
TITLE OF ARTICLE DATE OF PUBLICATION
Laoag City and OPAG STBF Hosts ILARRDEC website
Farmers Field Day
Laoag City and OPAG STBF Hosts January-February, 2010
Farmers Field Day
Field day iti S&T Based Farm, January, 2010
Maisayangkat
Extension Directorate at 2008
Production and Processing January, 2009
Technologies
Nueva Era Fits Center Launched
De La Cruz Hosts Farmers Field Day February, 2009
FITS - OPAG spearheads value April-May, 2009
adding training on tomato
ILARRDEC conducts value-adding
training for TGP implementers
Padasentayo dagitoy a resipe iti
panagiproseso iti kamatis
Newsbriefs August-September, 2009
Science and Technology Based-
Farm, Brgy. Catuguing, IlocosNorte
Honorio de la Cruz shares farming November, 2008
experiences
MMSU, ILARRDEC & OPAG conduct
orientation training for STBF adopters
OPAG MS hosts Farmers Field Day September, 2008
Typhoon Karen hits MS Farms in August, 2008
IlocosNorte
Thirty-two tomato growers and development workers from San Nicolas,

Vintar, Currimao, Bacarra, Laoag City, and OPAG participated in the training. All
in all, five recipes were presented and demonstrated namely: tomato balls,
tomato candy, tomato chutney, tomato pastillas, and tomato jam. A return
demonstration was done by the participants. Likewise, the cost and return
analysis of each recipe was computed.
Another tomato processing training was conducted in Brgy. Bulbulala,

Vintar, Ilocos Norte on April 15, 2009. Twenty of the Rural Improvement Club
(RIC) members of the said barangay participated in the training. The same
recipes were presented and demonstrated during this training.

187
Comparison on the Yield and Income of the MS Practice and
Enhanced Practice
This part discusses the results of utilizing the S&T interventions in table
tomato production on the yield and income of the MS practice vis-a-vis the
enhanced practice. The details of the technologies implemented in the two set-
ups are presented in Table 7. In addition, the enterprise performance data and
the profitability analysis using the partial budget analysis are discussed.
The S&T interventions under the MS practice and enhanced practice

plots included seed sowing, transplanting, nutrient management, and pest and
disease management. The MS completed the establishment of the three cycles.
Diamante seeds were used, which were sowed/raised in plastic trays in order to
produce vigorous seedlings and to eliminate transplanting shock. A mixture of
carbonized rice hull and chicken manure was used as a medium. Plastic mulch
was used to conserve moisture and eliminate the growth of weeds. The
seedlings were transplanted in holes punched in the plastic mulch with a
diameter of 4 at a distance of 0.40 m between hills. One seedling was
transplanted per hill. Fermented chicken manure with lagundi (Vitex Negundo)
and madre de cacao (Gliricidia sepium) leaf extracts were drenched served as
homemade foliar fertilizer. Trellis was constructed to support the plant from
adverse weather conditions. Lagundi and kakawate extracts were applied as
botanical pesticides in addition to the spraying of detergent soap and shampoo.
Barrier plants like onion and glutinous corn were planted during the first cycle.
However, the glutinous corn did not survive because of the typhoon that hit the
province at that time. Problems cropped up in using the barrier crop during the
second and third cycles. Removal of infected and old leaves as well as fruits was
also done (Table 7).
A.2. Enterprise Performance Data
Table 8 shows the enterprise performance of the MS practice and

enhanced practice. Findings show that the first cycle had the lowest yield
difference. This can be attributed to the initial use of organic fertilizer. Studies
showed that the effect of organic fertilizer cannot be observed abruptly after
shifting from conventional to organic farming.
Nevertheless, it can be noted that during the second and third cycles, the
yield difference increased to 1,000kg. This implies that the S&T interventions
affected yield in the enhanced practice. Based on the study of Chau and Heong
(2005) on the effects of organic fertilizer on insect pest and diseases of rice,

Table 7. Detailed S&T interventions followed in the first, second, and
third cycles
ACTIVITIES MS PRACTICE ENHANCED PRACTICE
Variety Used hybrid and OPV Used hybrid and OPV seeds
seeds (Diamante). (Diamante).
Seed Raised seedlings in Raised seedlings in plastic trays
sowing seedbeds and direct to produce vigorous seedlings
seeding. and to eliminate transplanting
shock with Biocon or Vital N as
inoculants.
Land Prepared the land Prepared land thoroughly with
preparation thoroughly with the use of tractor.
tractor.
Used plastic mulch and trellises.
Used plastic mulch and
trellises.
Transplantin Transplanted seedlings in Made/bore holes in the plastic
g raised beds. mulch with a diameter of 4
inches or the size of sardines
can at a distance of 0.40 meter
between hills.
Transplanted 1 seedling/hill late

in the afternoon.
Nutrient Applied basally 3 bags Used 40 bags of dried chicken
Managemen mixture of 14-14-14 and 3 manure and 80 bags rice hull as
t bags 21-0-0. basal fertilizer.
Applied 3 bags mixture of Drenched with fermented
14-14-14 and 3 bags 21-0- chicken manure with plant and
0, 30 days after fruit extracts as homemade
transplanting (DAT). foliar fertilizer at the following
rate:
Tea Manure-Formulation:
packed 50 kg of chicken manure
in a sack. Submerged in a
plastic drum containing 200L
water. Soaked in 1-2 months.
Sprayed on plants at the rate of
1 part tea manure to 5 parts
water.
Fermented Plant Juice -
Formulation: Mixed 1kg of thinly
cut lagundi and kakawate leaves
with 1 kg brown sugar or
molasses. Packed in a plastic
bag and soaked in water for 5-7
days. Sprayed on plants at the
rate of 1 tbsp of the juice mixed
with 1 gal water.

189
Table 7 continuation..
ACTIVITIES MS PRACTICE ENHANCED PRACTICE
Trellising Constructed trellis for plant Constructed trellis for plant

support during early support during early vegetative
vegetative stage. stage.
Pest and Sprayed insecticide and Used biological pesticides
Diseases fungicides to prevent and Xentari or Halt at the rate of 3
Management control pest and diseases: tbsp/16L water.
1stcycle Kocide
2ndcycle Kocide and
Brodan
3rd cycle Kocide,
Brodan,and
Alpha Green
Sprayed boron to enhance
fruit setting
Used botanical pesticide (plant
extracts) lagundi and
kakawate at the rate of 1kg
extracted lagundi leaves + 1 kg
extracted kakawate leaves for
every 100L water.
Used detergent soap or
shampoo mixed in 1 sprayer
load (16L capacity)
Removed and burned infected
fruits and old leaves.
Harvesting Harvested ripe tomato Harvested ripe tomato
Harvested matured (green) Harvested matured (green)

tomato, stored in cold tomato and stored in cold
storage and disposed when storage and disposed when
price is high. price is high.

Table 8

applying manure and organic fertilizers was effective in protecting natural
enemies under field condition. Likewise, results indicated that organic fertilizer
affected rice plant growth and minimized the outbreak of insect pests and
diseases.
Partial Budget Analysis was used to assess the impact of the enhanced
practice and the MS practice in producing table tomato in the farm of MS Honorio
de la Cruz.
The results of the partial budget analysis for table tomato production for
the first, second, and third cycles had positive returns. As shown in Table 9, a
tomato farmer was able to increase his income across all cycles despite the
occurrence of typhoons that affected the production. The results imply, that
adopting the S&T interventions in the enhanced practice can improve farm
production and income as compared to the MS practice. Comparing the profit
gained in the enhanced practice, the second cycle had the lowest return. This
was due to the very low price of table tomatoes at that time as a result of
oversupply. To increase the income from the STBF, the farmer engaged in
processed tomato products such as jam, chutney, and candies as an added
value to the table tomato produced.
Further, the third cycle gave the highest return to the farmer. During this
time, production of table tomato was off-season after three typhoons destroyed
the seedlings. This resulted in a very high price of the commodity in the market.
Combined with the supply and demand conditions of tomato in the

market, the farmer was able to save costs by using organic fertilizers and
biological control for pest and disease management. This suggests the success
and significance of the S&T interventions applied in pest and nutrient
management in the STBF.
CONCLUSIONS
Based on the findings of the study, the following conclusions were

drawn:
In terms of the yield, the enhanced practice showed a positive effect as

compared to the MS practice. The use of FPJ, FFJ, and tea manure for
nutrient management in table tomato production gave higher production
than the application of inorganic fertilizers.

For pest management, the use of biological pesticides (Halt and Xentari)
in the enhanced practice resulted to higher yield on table tomato
production as compared to the use of chemicals under the MS practice.
Applying organic fertilizers and botanical control of pests and diseases is

far better that using inorganic fertilizers and chemical control agents as
indicated by the higher profit gained by the MS in the enhanced practice.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the conclusions of the study, the following recommendations

are forwarded:
FPJ, FFJ, and tea manure should be applied in table tomato production;
Biological pesticides should be used to maximize their potentials in table

tomato production;
CRH, chicken manure, and tea manure should be applied to enhance soil
nutrients. However, soil analysis before and after the STBF establishment
should be done to further verify the effects of the fertilizer management
practices.
REFERENCES

2010, Management Innovative Strategies for Sustainabilty: An Extension
Ballantine, J. H. and Roberts, K.A, 2011, Our Social World, Introduction to

BAR, 2008. Situation Report on Major Vegetables and Roots, January-March,

2008, Vol. 1 No. 1 BAR, 2008, PHL-BAS-CrPS-2008-rep.pdf, May, 2013.
Chau, Luong Minch and KL Heong, 2005.Effects of Organic Fertilizer on Insect

Pests and Diseases of Rice. International Rice Research Institute.
www.clrri.org/lib/omorice/13-4pdf. Retrieved May 29, 2013.

193
Department of Agriculture RFU1, 2013.Agri-Pinoy High Crops Development
Program Accomplishment Report, April 2013, Province of Ilocos Norte.
Garcia, A.M. et. al, Research (Simplified Guide to Thesis Writing), 2011,
MPDO, 2010 Retrieved from http://inorte.org/?page_id=429, May 2013.
and Investment Packages: A Practitioners Guide Book., PCARRD,
LosBanos Laguna.
Terminal Report, STBF on Organic-Based Table Tomato Production, 2010.

Mariano Marcos State University, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte.
http://www.naandanjain.com/uploads/catalogerfiles/tomato2/Tomato_
eng_booklet_190812final%20.pdf, Retrieved on May 28, 2013.
beans.bas.gov.ph/index.php/catalog/10/download/71, Retrieved on May 28,
2013.
http://www.agricultureguide.org/importance-of-organic-farming-in-terms-of-food-
safety/, Retrieved on May 28, 2013.
www.wikipedia.com, Retrieved on May 28, 2013.
http://www.sannicolasilocosnorte.gov.ph/aboutus.asp, Retrieved on May 28,

2013.

The Case of White Corn Production
Anielyn Y. Alibuyog, Alma C. Aguinaldo,

Bethsaida M. Catudan, Romel A. Batuac, Ferdinand B. Casil, Jr. ,
Adelaida C. Quigao, ED Cabuyadao and Merryline T Gappi
INTRODUCTION
Corn is an important crop in the Philippines, because it is consumed by

humans and livestock. Just like rice, it is a staple for Filipinos specifically those
from Southern Philippines (Tanchuling, 2007). According to Clarete (2012), at
least 12 million Filipinos prefer white corn more than rice. Corn farms take up
roughly 26% of the countrys 4.858 million hectares (Mha) of arable lands.
Roughly 1.294 Mha is planted with yellow corn and 1.367 Mha with white corn.
However, there is an increasing conversion of white to yellow corn farms
because of the low white corn production (COCAFM, 2012). At the national
level, corn production increased by 1.92% or 48,000 ha from 2.499 million ha in
2010 to 2.547 Mha in 2011. However, the conversion of white corn farms to
yellow corn is increasing, because of low white corn production (COCAFM,
2012). Yellow corn area grew at a rate of 8.88% while white corn decreased by
4.11% (Department of Agriculture).
In the Ilocos Region, corn is one of the major crops planted because it is
used as food for humans, feeds for livestock and an important raw material in
chicacorn production (ILARRDEC, 2010). Corn yield for CY 2011increased by
7.55% over that of CY 2010. The increased yield was attributed by farm
mechanization and provision of post-harvest facilities (Department of
Agriculture). However, the average yield for white corn is still low; thus,
improving the production practices is necessary.
In 2005, the 57,374 MT grain corn demand in Ilocos Norte was for the
feed industry (79%) while the remainder was for the cornick industry. This
translates to a 7,386 MT shortfall of production from the demand. From 2000 to
2006, yellow corn annual production grew only by an average of 20.4% per year
but white corn output increased by an average of 30% per annum (Provincial

195
Government of Ilocos Norte). This implies the increasing demand for white corn
over the years, which shows a different trend from that of the national level. This
could be explained by the growing cornick industry in Region I. The Bureau of
Agricultural Statistics (BAS) reported that the yield in Region I was higher than
that of Ilocos Nortes average for both white corn (3.18 t/ha) and yellow corn
(5.43 t/ha) in 2010. This supports the need for Ilocos Norte to further improve its
corn productivity.
Despite the high demand for white corn grains by the cornick industry,
fewer farmers grow the crop more than yellow corn due to its low yield and net
income earned by farmers. According to the BAS (2009), the average net
income for white corn production from WS and DS planting is only Php 3,979/ha.
Based on the informal interviews with corn growers in Batac City, production can
be increased with the use of high yielding varieties, matched with proper water
management and fertilizer application. Hence, with the technology gaps in the
existing practices of outstanding corn growers in the Region, and with the
introduction of S&T-based enhancement, corn production can be increased.
Therefore, this study showcases the effectiveness of S&T interventions

in white corn production via R&D management, research utilization, and
technology promotion. It has the following general and specific objectives:
1. Explore the potentials of R&D management practices in maximizing the

S&T interventions in white corn production in terms of their contribution to:
Resource sharing, partnership building, technology promotion,

organizational dynamics, and problem-solving in facilitating S&T
intervention utilization and adoption, and
Addressing issues/concerns related to resource sharing,
partnership building, technology promotion, organizational
dynamics, and problem-solving in facilitating S&T intervention
utilization and adoption.
2. Determine the effects of utilizing S&T interventions in white corn production

by:
Comparing the yield between the Magsasaka Siyentistas (MSs)

practice and S&T interventions in white corn production;
Comparing the effects of the MSs practice and S&T interventions
on soil; and
Comparing the income from white corn production utilizing MSs
practice and S&T interventions.

This study covers three cropping seasons of field observations in the
City of Batac, one of the biggest white corn growing areas in Ilocos Norte from
2007 DS to 2010 DS. It involved Mr. Napoleon Sapaden, the MS on white corn
and other white corn growers who could be possible technology adopters.
METHODOLOGY
This section describes the two major activities of the study: the pre-
implementation and implementation phase. The former includes organizing the
local team, meetings, and consultation workshops that identified technology
gaps, and eventually, the S&T interventions. On the other hand, the latter
includes characterizing the socio-demographics of the project site, establishing
the MSs and S&T farms, and data gathering, processing, and analysis.
The Project Site
Location
The STBF Project was established in Brgy. Baoa West, City of Batac,
Ilocos Norte. The site is rainfed with rice-corn cropping pattern. During the dry
season (DS) planting, most of the farmers grow either yellow or white corn
because of its higher profitability than other DS crops and its assured market.
Yellow corn caters to the feed industry while the white or glutinous corn serves
as raw material for chichacorn, which is a very flourishing industry in Ilocos.
Selection of the Project Site
The FITS staff, led by the FITS manager, who knows the potentials of
the MS and the farmer adopters, and the places where white corn is planted,
recommended possible project sites. These sites were then visited and evaluated
based on the following criteria:
accessibility;
compact area of 4,000 m2 for the MS farm and S&T interventions;
presence of water facilities; and
receptiveness of farmers in the area
Existing Farmers Practices on White Corn Production
The practices of corn production mainly differed in tillage and fertilizer

application. Generally, farmers in the area prepare the land for planting corn via
the conventional and furrow method. However, some farmers practice minimum
tillage without mulch, a strategy to reduce labor cost, as well as save in plowing

197
and furrowing. By using mulch, water is conserved; consequently, labor and fuel
costs for irrigation were reduced. This also reduces weed growth, thus, lessening
weeding cost.
Corn is known as a nutrient depleting plant, thus it requires high fertilizer

levels. If planted repeatedly, the soil becomes unproductive especially if soil
nutrient amelioration is not employed. Most of the farmers use pure chemical
fertilizers while only few apply organic fertilizers combined with inorganic
fertilizers. Results of studies on fertilizer management showed that desirable
yields could not be attained with the application of organic fertilizer alone.
However, the combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers, considering the
long-term benefits, would increase soil fertility and reduce the application of
chemical fertilizer, thus, resulting to lower input cost.
Scope
The demonstration site was established at Mr. Napoleon Sapadens farm

in Brgy. Baoa West, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte. The total area of the demo farm
was 6000 m2. It was divided into two plots, each measuring 3000 m2. The
practices of the MS were demonstrated in one plot while those of the S&T
interventions were on the adjacent plot. Each of the technology components was
followed under the MS practice and the S&T interventions.
DS 2007-2008
The STBF Project on white corn production was initiated during the DS
of 2007-2008. The demo farm was established in November 2007. However,
due to the occurrences of unpredicted heavy rains, the newly-emerged corn
seedlings suffered from flooding. Consequently, the plants did not grow well,
hence, there was no data gathered from the first year of implementation. The
project was extended to the DS of 2009-2010 for a two-year establishment of the
experimental set-up.
DS 2008-2009
Because of the experience in the first season of implementation, the
planting schedule was delayed up to December. This ensured that the set-up
would not be affected by typhoons or flooding. The weather condition during the
DS 2008-2009 was favorable for corn production.
DS 2009-2010
To validate the results of the planting DS 2008-2009, the experiment was
established in December 2009 for the third time. Several typhoons occurred
during the WS of 2009, hence planting was done in December, when the desired

soil moisture for planting was reached. Although WS 2009 had relatively high
rainfall, there was pronounced droplets during the succeeding dry season, which
affected wide areas in Region I. Nevertheless, the dry season set up in Baoa
West, City of Batac did not suffer from drought. Supplemental irrigation of the
MS from the shallow tube wells (STWs) was provided to the plants.
Data Gathering
Agronomic data were gathered from both MS and S&T-based plots. The
following data were gathered:
Plant height (cm);

Ear length and diameter (cm);
Yield based on crop cut (3 sampling area for each farm); and
Insect pest and disease occurrence and prevalence from planting to
harvesting
Data sets on the agronomic and yield parameters were gathered by

the MS and the agricultural technician (AT) assigned in the area. The MS was
strongly involved in this activity for him to see and observe the results of the S&T
interventions. The technical principles behind each intervention were explained
to him in detail.
Soil Nutrient Status
The effect of the MSs practices and S&T interventions on soil nutrient
status from the start to the end of the project was compared. Soil sample
collection was done before planting and after harvesting. After collection, soil
samples were immediately submitted to a soils laboratory in Laoag City for the
analysis of organic matter content, as well as nitrogen, phosphorous and
potassium contents. The change in the nutrient status through time was
monitored in both farms.
Economic Profitability
All the expenses (material and labor) per activity, both under the MS and
S&T farms, were recorded. Record keeping was done by the MS through the
assistance of the AT. The financial analysis was a joint responsibility of the AT
and an economics expert.
Data Processing and Analysis
Agronomic data gathered were summarized and analyzed using means.

On the other hand, cost and return were subject to partial budget analysis.

199
Contributions of R&D Management Practices in Facilitating White Corn

Production via S&T Interventions Utilization and Adoption
Organization Dynamics
Two major aspects are included in this sectionthe selection, evaluation,

and designation of MS as well as the local team members.
Selection, evaluation, and designation of MS. A meeting was

coordinated by PhilRice, being the partner member agency (PMA), with FITS-
Batac in identifying and evaluating the Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) candidate.
Based on his accomplishments as a corn grower that was indicated by

his outstanding farm practices and high production level, together with his
capability to share technologies with other farmers, Mr. Napoleon Sapaden was
identified as the MS.
In addition, his potential in generating and disseminating technologies

was acknowledged by the FITS-Batac during his research involvement in
evaluating the effect of Tayumas green manure for corn. This was found effective
in reducing the use of commercial fertilizer. His farm was then used as the
techno-demo area on the said technology with the assistance of DA-ISS II.
Further, Mr. Sapaden is a well-known farmer in Batac City because of

his outstanding performance in corn and rice production. In fact, he was the most
outstanding farmer in Ilocos Norte in 2001 because of his high production yield
using registered seeds of recommended varieties. Additionally, he is an organic
farming advocate.
Selection and designation local team members (LTM). In selecting

the LTMs, the PMA and the FITS Batac met to identify the most capable and
appropriate personnel. In consultation with the ILARRDEC, preliminary selection
was done based on the expertise of the candidates. After organizing the local
team, the members convened to solicit their commitment to the project and to
discuss their responsibilities. Table 1 presents the composition of the local team.
The FITS Manager supervised every activity to ensure the correct and
successful project implementation. On the other hand, the technical experts
looked into the interventions that were introduced to the S&T-based farm. The
experts considered the technological and economic profitability in analyzing the
impact of the S&T interventions. Specifically, the economist looked into the

Table 1. Composition of the local team.
Position Staff
Magsasaka Siyentista: Mr. Napoleon Sapaden
FITS Manager: Ms. Merryline Gappi
Technical Experts: Ms. Adelaida Quigao(Corn)
Engr. Ferdinand Casil (Corn)
Engr. Rommel Batuac (Corn)
(Economist) Ms. Bethzaida Catudan
Focal Person from PMA: Ms. Anielyn Alibuyog
profitability of the S&T intervention. Moreover, the focal person from the PMA
coordinated every project activity including monitoring and evaluation.
Partnership Building
The project success depends on the strong partnership of the
implementing agencies. It is determined by the stakeholders commitment in
sharing and allocating resources for the project. To operationalize such, the
following activities were undertaken:
Local team meeting. In order to identify, orient, and finalize the

responsibilities of the local team, a meeting was conducted. The Terms of
Reference (TOR), which was provided by PCAARRD was followed to ensure
commitment and support.
FITS management staff meetings. As part of monitoring and

identifying the different issues and concerns in the STBF implementation, a
quarterly meeting was held, which was initiated by the PMA and attended by the
FITS staff. Through such meetings, the FITS staffs were given additional insights
in improving and enhancing promotional project implementation. Likewise, S & T
interventions activities were planned and discussed.
MOA signing. As a requirement in the STBF implementation, a

stakeholders. This formalized the involvement of all key partners from PCARRD-
ILARRDEC, LGU-Batac, and PhilRice.
Creating a sense of responsibility through the MOA motivated all the

stakeholders to have their best in implementing the project. On the whole, formal
arrangements secured the bond of cooperation between and among the project
stakeholders.

201
Resource Sharing
Counterparting is an essential ingredient in project implementation. With

this, partners acknowledged all the project outcomes.
Sharing of resources from various stakeholders. The availability of

financial resources is one of the key indicators of project success. Although the
STBF was funded by DOST-PCARRD, the implementers and the beneficiaries
still shelled out available material or non-material resources to ensure project
sustainability.
Generally, resource sharing and counter-parting can be observed among

the various stakeholders DOST-PCARRD, LGU-Batac, PhilRice, and MS in
implementing of the TGP (Table 2).
Through resource sharing and complementation, project sustainability

was ensured. The role and contribution of the MS to the project was highly
appreciated. On his part, the project served as a training ground for him to
improve his capability all the more, which was needed in influencing other people
through extension work. His leadership ability and his favorable with other
farmers were strengthened as well.
Problem-Solving Dynamics
Inception Meeting. The inception meeting was done to finalize the

different technology interventions implemented in the STBF. Knowledge and
experiences of the experts regarding the identified S & T interventions were
discussed thoroughly and agreed upon collectively. The meeting was attended
by the PMA, the FITS staff, the MS, and the technical experts.
MSs Practices on White Corn Production
Mr. Napoleon Sapaden is a distinguished corn and rice farmer in the City
of Batac. His MS best practices on white corn production include the following:

IMPLEMENTER/STAKEHOLDER RESOURCE - COUNTERPART
DOST-PCARRD Financial grant/Fund
PhilRice Technical expertise, manpower, and
other resources
LGU Batac Manpower (FITS Manager, TSS, and
ISS), and other resources
MS Land and labor for the STBF.

Schedule of planting. The MS immediately planted corn after
harvesting rice or as soon as the soil condition allowed it. Planting schedule was
primarily based on soil moisture. Seeds were sown once the desired soil
moisture content was reached. Excessive soil moisture could hamper the
emergence of seeds or the growth of the newly-emerged seedlings.
Variety. The MS used Klasika hybrid variety, which could give higher
yield than the traditional glutinous white corn varieties available in the locality.
The variety has a potential yield of 4t/ha. Its plant height at maturity is 110cm
while its ear length ranges from 12-22cm. However, the seed materials are more
expensive(P400-500/kg) than the inbred white corn seeds (P60/kg for registered
seeds).
Land preparation and planting. The MS followed minimum tillage in

land preparation because according to Kluchinski, 2003, it saves time and
reduces costs. In addition, soil erosion, soil compaction, and water runoff are
reduced. In harvesting the preceding crop, rice straws were cut about 30cm
above the ground surface. A hand tractor was used to pass over the rice
stubbles at the field, which served as mulch. The field was irrigated to moisten
the soil, which facilitates dibbling.
Seeds for planting were then prepared. They were placed in a

suitable container, mixed thoroughly with Bio-N at one pack for every 3kg of corn
seeds until they were coated. After treatment, the seeds were planted
immediately using a wooden dibbler, at the rate of 1-2 seeds/hill with a distance
of 70cm between rows and 30 cm between hills
Fertilizer application. Basal fertilizer (16-20-0) was applied at the

rate of 3.33 bags/ha dibbled 5cm from the sown seeds. Side dressing was done
20-25 and 38 days after planting (DAP) at the rate of 1.67 bags of 21-0-0/ha/
application. Chemical fertilizers were complemented with decomposed farm
residues such as animal manure, rice straw or mahogany leaves, and dried
chicken manure at the rate of 33 bags/ha. Organic materials were applied in the
field before the rice cropping season. Applying organic fertilizers eventually
reduced the use of chemical fertilizers.
Weed control. Post-emergence herbicide (Sharp Shooter) was

sprayed 8-12 days before planting, which was reinforced by manual weeding.
Irrigation. Flood irrigation was done five times for the whole season.
The first irrigation was done at 10-14DAP. The succeeding two irrigations were
applied at 9-12 days interval and the last two irrigations at 12-15 days interval.

203
Pest monitoring. Insect pests were monitored from 21 to 65 DAP.
Closely monitoring was done to see problems early and provide remedial
measures on time. The MS followed the principles on Integrated Pest
Management and sprayed insecticide only when the critical pest level was
reached.
Harvesting and post-harvest activities. Harvesting of corn ears

was done at 105 DAP. Corn ears with husk were sundried for at least 15 days or
3 days for corn ears without husk. Shelling corn ears was done using
mechanical sheller. After corn shelling, grains were sun-dried in 2-3 days, then,
they were packed in sacks ready for marketing or storage.
The S&T Interventions
Although the MS technology on white corn production was found

effective, the technical experts recognized the need to improve some of the
components (Table 3). Specifically, the following interventions were showcased
at the enhanced technology plot:
Application of additional rice straw as mulch. Following minimum

tillage, additional rice straw was applied as mulch of about 2-3 cm thick.
Appropriate thickness was needed to conserve moisture and control weeds more
effectively. Too thick mulch of about 5cm would encourage mole cricket
infestation, which could destroy the seeds or the newly-emerged corn seedlings.
With this mulching intervention, irrigation and weed control costs were reduced.
Table 3. Technology components and activities in organic white corn
production.
TECHNOLOGY ADVANTAGE
S&T
COMPONENT MS PRACTICE OF THE
INTERVENTION
INTERVENTIONS
Land Minimumtillage Minimum tillage Soil moisture
Preparation without additional with additional rice conservation and
rice straw as straw as mulch better weed
mulch control
Planting 70cm spacing 75cm spacing Bigger ear; higher
Distance between rows & between rows & yield
30cm between 25cm between
hills hills
Seeding Rate Dibbling of 1 and Dibbling of 1 seed/ Lesser
2 seeds/hill hill competition for
alternately nutrients, water
and sunlight
Fertilizer Fertilizer Fertilizer Sufficient and
Management application based application based balanced
on crop on soil analysis fertilization
appearance

Planting distance and number of seeds per hill. The recommended
planting distance for the Klasika variety at 75 cm between rows and 25 cm
between hills was followed. One seed per hill reduces seed requirement to 3 kg/
ha.
Fertilizer application. Based on the soil analysis results, the fertilizer

recommendation for the enhanced technology plot was 150-70-20kg NPK/ha and
the fertilizers applied per hectare were 2.86 bags of 14-14-14, 8.57 bags of 21-0-
0, and 5 bags of 16-20-0. The MS exclusively used 16-20- 0 fertilizer, but 14-14-
14 was recommended to meet the potassium requirement of the soil. Potassium
could enhance the grain filling of the corn ear.
Monitoring activities. Regular monthly monitoring was conducted by

PhilRice in coordination with the center in FITS Batac. This ensured that the MS
and the project management team implemented the programmed activities. In
addition, this enabled the team to identify problems and to solve them
accordingly. Further, this assessed the strengths and limitations of the project
implementers. All the STBF monitoring results were provided to the ILARRDEC.
Technology Promotion
Various technology promotion activities were conducted by the project

implementers to showcase the enhanced technology on white corn. These
include among others, field days, field and cross visits, and IEC material
production.
Farmers Field School
Four meetings were conducted with the POT potential adopters to

discuss white corn production practices (Table 4). The number of farmers who
attended the FFS ranged from 28 to 40. During the FFS, the MS discussed the
different corn production principles vis-a-vis his experiences, while the technical
experts of the local team provided more detailed explanations. Aside from the
white corn production technologies, composting techniques and Carbonized Rice
Hull (CRH) making were also discussed and demonstrated to the farmers.
Field Days
White Corn
A field day was conducted at the project site on March 16, 2009 to
showcase the results of the enhanced technology on white corn and the MSs
best practices on corn production. The two activities were attended by 62 farmer-
participants from Batac City, concerned and interested LGUs, PhilRice and
205
Table 4. List of topics/activities and the participants during the FFS on
white corn production, field trip, field day and graduation. DS
2008-2009.
NO. OF
TOPIC/ RESOURCE
DATE PARTICIANTS PARTICI
ACTIVITY SPEAKER
PANTS
Dec. 5, 2008 Project briefing PhilRice Expert, Local team and 28
Composting FITS Batac and the target
Soil Sampling MS farmer adopters
and Analysis
Jan. 15, Crop Establish- MS and Techni- Local team and 29
2009 ment cal Experts the target
farmer adopters
Feb. 3, 2009 Fertilizer Appli- MS, BS Agricul- Local team and 40

cation and ture Students the target
Weed Manage- (On-Job Train- farmer adopters
ment ees) and Tech-
nical Experts
Feb. 17, Integrated Pest PhilRice Expert, Local team and 32

2009 Management FITS Batac and the target
and CRH Mak- MS farmer adopters
ing and its
Uses
Feb. 23, Field visit to Cyber Commu- Local team and 47
2009 Batac FITS nity farmer- the target
Center, Cyber Members and farmer adopters
Community in PhilRice Staff
Quiling Sur,
PhilRiceBata-
cOpAPA Office
and experimen-
tal set-ups.
Mar. 6, 2009 Field Trip to MS MS, FITS Man- Local team and 35
farms in Ilocos agers and TSS the target
Norte in Bacarra, farmer adopters
Pasuquin, Bur-
gos and Vintar
Mar. 16, Field Day and MS and Techni- Local team and 62
2009 Farmers cal Experts the target
Graduation farmer adopters
and other
beneficiaries
from different
barangays;
LGU, ILAR-
RDEC Repre-
sentatives

ILARRDEC staff. In the same event, 28 farmer-FFS participants graduated after
the completion of their FFS on rice and white corn production. The graduates
were given t-shirts, posters, and reading materials. Leaflets on the best practices
of the MS on white corn production (English and Iluko versions) were also
distributed to farmers who attended the activities.
Most of the farmers in Brgy. Baoa West practiced minimum-tillage in

preparing their corn land farms without using any mulch. Instead of using rice
straw for mulching corn, they used it for animal feeding. The use of Klasika
variety could give them higher yield but most of the farmers hesitated to use it
because it was more expensive than the traditional glutinous variety that they
used to plant.However, considering the resultsof the enhanced technology,
farmers were convinced to follow such on white corn production.
Rice
Mr. Sapaden is not only known for his outstanding performance in corn
production but in rice production as well. He is one of the farmers who advocate
the use of high quality seeds of locally-adaptable rice varieties. He reduces his
usage of inorganic fertilizers by applying green manure and chicken dung in his
farm. Since the farm of the MS is rice-based, Mr. Sapadens rice production
practices were also monitored before the corn planting season.
In 2007 WS, Mr. Sapaden planted Bigante, MS6, IR65, and PSB Rc82 in
a 2-ha area. By following the recommended rice production technologies, he
was able to reduce the amount of inorganic fertilizer that he used to apply in his
farm. He applied more organic materials such as dried chicken dung, mahogany
leaves, cow and carabao manure, and compost from farm wastes.
Moreover, a field day was held to showcase the convincing results of

organic-based farming. The field day was attended by farmers from different
barangays of Batac City. The uses of harvesting machines such as rice reaper
and grass-cutter-harvester were likewise demonstrated during the field day. Mr.
Sapaden explained that incorporating organic materials and green manuring
improves soil fertility and reduces fertilizer costs. He was able to harvest 10.2 t/
ha with a net income of P65,310.00/ha.
Cross Visits and Field Tours
Cross visits of the MS and the prospective adopters of S&T interventions

were done to other STBF projects in Bacarra, Pasuquin, Burgos, and Vintar,
Ilocos Norte. Those visits enabled the participants to gain and enhance insights
from the outstanding farmers in the province, which helped widen their horizon in
farming.
To further create the awareness of the farmers to the advances in
agriculture, farmers were toured to the Cyber Community in Quiling Sur, Batac
City, Ilocos Norte. The cyber community members shared their practices on rice
and on white, yellow, and sweet corn production, as well as the benefits they
derived in marketing their produce through regular price monitoring. The farmers
also visited the Open Academy for Philippine Agriculture (OpAPA) Office at
PhilRice-Batac where they learned to access information through the internet,
particularly the Rice Knowledge Bank (RKB) services. Additionally, they visited
various research sites on vegetable production at the PhilRice-Batac
experimental area.
IEC Materials
The best practices of the MS in corn production were first documented

and packaged into leaflets with English and Iluko versions. Copies of which were
distributed to the potential farmer adopters, field day participants, farmers who
visited the Batac FITS Center and the STBF Project in Baoa West. Likewise,
during the 30th Anniversary of ILARRDEC, the video presentation of the MS Best
Practices on Rice Production was launched. A video presentation of the best
practices of the MS on white corn production was also developed.
Other Extension Activities
Mr. Sapaden was invited to attend various field days, farmers congress,
and other agriculture-related activities at the municipal and provincial levels.
Likewise, he attended the field day at the S&T-based farm on farming systems of
MS Teresita Allado in Currimao, Ilocos Norte. During field days, he shared his
impressions on the MS practices and at the same time promoted his practices in
organic farming. During the visit of STARRDEC staff to the FITS-Batac on
November 26, 2008, the operation of the FITS Center and the activities at the
STBF farm were presented. Mr. Sapaden discussed his farm practices especially
the application of organic materials to reduce commercial fertilizer costs. Copies
of the packaged MS practices on white corn production were distributed to the
STARRDEC visitors, participating farmers of the FFS at the MS farm, and other
clientele who visited the Batac FITS Center.
Moreover, the MS was as FFS participant on rice in Quiling Sur, City of

Batac, which was conducted by the trainees of the Rice Specialists Training
Course of PhilRice Batac in WS 2009. He confidently shared his best practices
on rice production to his fellow participants and to the rice specialists. Further,
he was actively involved in the technology dissemination and information
campaign conducted by the Batac FITS Center and all the ILARRDEC-
sponsored activities.

Scientific Conferences
The project results were presented in a poster during the National Rice R
& D Conference in Muoz, Nueva Ecija in March 2009. The poster was the
second placer under the technology dissemination category. The paper was also
presented during the 2011 Regional R&D Symposium at the University of
Northern Philippines, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. Through scientific fora, results were
properly shared to farmers, researchers, and development workers.
Effects of Utilizing S&T interventions on White Corn Production
Yield. The MS plot had higher plant population than that of the enhanced
technology (Table 5) because one or two seeds were sown per hill. High plant
density in the MS plot resulted in shading among plants. Consequently, taller
plants and larger corn ear were produced, which led to 15% yield in the
enhanced technology plot or a yield difference of 625 kg/ha.
Among the S & T interventions, balancing fertilizers applied to white corn

had the greatest contribution in increasing yield at the enhanced technology plot.
Likewise, during provision of sufficient and balanced nutrients to the crops
ensured higher productivity. On the other hand, applying additional rice straw for
mulching contributed significantly in conserving soil moisture and hampering
weed growth, thus reducing irrigation and weed management cost. In addition,
the long-term effect of decomposed rice straw could be reckoned with particularly
in improving soil properties via the increased K content.
Similarly in DS 2009-2010, the yield at the S&T farm was higher than at
the MS farm, with a difference of 440kg/ha. Higher plant population was
observed at the MS farm because of the higher seeding rate. On the other hand,
plant height, ear diameter, ear length and shelling recovery were consistently
higher at the S&T Farm, resulting to a higher yield. The yield difference (445 kg/
ha) was lesser during this season than that in DS 2008-2009. The yield increase
from the MS plot was 11%.Average from the two season set-up showed that
yield was higher by 625 kg/ha or a yield advantage of 26%.
Soil Nutrient Status. Soil samples were collected from the site before
the start of the project and every after harvest of corn from DS 2007 to DS 2010.
These were submitted to the Soils Laboratory at the Office of the Provincial
Agriculturist for pH, organic matter (OM), Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P) and
Potassium (K) analysis.
Results of the soil analysis before and after the DS 2008-2009 corn
planting showed that the pH, OM and N contents were comparable in both plots

209
(Table 5). However, after the corn planting season in DS 2009-2010, the
difference in the pH, OM, and N contents between the MS plot and S&T plot
became more pronounced. It could be also noted that the P and K contents in
the MS plots were consistently much lower. The higher K in the enhanced
technology is attributed to the addition of rice straw as mulch after harvesting
corn. Using rice straw as mulch significantly increased the K content of the soil.
Likewise, the application of chicken manure and other organic materials in both
plots increased the OM content of the soil after DS 2008-2009, however, the OM
content in DS 2009-2010 significantly declined. Mineralization of organic matter
during the said cropping season was faster, resulting to faster conversion of
organic matter into available forms; hence, organic matter content in the soil was
lower.
Among the S&T interventions, fertilizer application following balanced
fertilization had immensely contributed to the yield increase at the S&T farm.
Providing sufficient and balance nutrients to the crops ensures higher production.
Meanwhile, adding rice straw for mulching, had contributed significantly in
conserving soil moisture and in hampering weed growth, thus reducing the cost
for irrigation and weed management. The long-term effect of decomposed rice
straw could also be considered particularly in improving of the soil properties by
increasing the K contents of the soil.
Table 5. Comparative yield in white corn production using the MSs practice and
S&Tinterventions in Baoa West, Batac City, Ilocos Norte.
DS 2009 DS 2010 AVERAGE

With
With
With S&T S&T
ITEMS MS S&T MS MS
Interven- Inter-
Farm Inter- Farm Farm
tions vention
ventions
s
Plant Popula-
71,428 53,333 67,488 66,600 69,458 59,967
tion (plants/ha)
Plant Height
182.25 185.15 179 183 181 184
(cm)
Ear Diameter
15.25 16.5 15 15.5 15 16
(cm)
Ear Length (cm) 17.5 18.75 17 18.5 17 19
Shelling Recov-
68 70 76 78 72 74
ery (%)
Yield (kg/ha) 4115 4925 4180 4620 4,148 4,773
Yield Increase
20 11 26
over MS (%)

Economic Profitability
The enhanced technology on white corn production resulted in a 15%-

yield increase and 35% net benefit increase over the MS best practices under the
two cropping cycles. The total cost of production was higher in the enhanced
technology (P58,566/ha) than in the MS plot (P57,745/ha) because it required
higher material inputs such as mulching and applying fertilizers. Likewise, the
MS plot required higher labor for irrigation (13%), herbicide spraying (30%), and
spot weeding (62%), and higher cost of fuel and oil for irrigation (18%) and
herbicide (79%) than those in the enhanced technology.
The labor for irrigation in the S&T farm was lesser due to the effect of the
additional rice straw mulch in preserving soil moisture. There was no difference
in the frequency of irrigation between the two farms (both plots were irrigated five
times); however, the duration of accomplishing the activity varied. Irrigation time
for the MS farm was longer than the STBF. As the crops reached reproductive
stage, water requirement increased. The two plots were sprayed with herbicide
before planting but more weeds survived in the MS farm, requiring additional
labor for spot weeding. Fertilizer application also varied between the two farms.
More labor was used for basal fertilizer application under the S&T-based farm but
less for side dressing. Overall, more labor was spent in the S&T farm for
mulching, basal fertilizer application, and planting. Meanwhile, the higher cost of
harvesting and post-harvest activities under S&T farm, are direct effects of the
increase in yield.
Table 6. The soil properties under the MS Farm and STB Farm before the start
of the project, and after the second cycle.
S&T
SOIL PROPERTIES MS FARM INTERVENTIONS
pH 7.11 7.06
OM (%) 1.4 1.38
Before DS 2008-2009 N (%) 0.07 0.07
P 6.2 18.05
K 100.215 157.63
pH 7.20 7.23
OM (%) 1.46 1.60
After DS 2008-2009 N (%) 0.07 0.08
P 14.56 18.93
K 157.27 194.36
pH 7.13 6.96
OM (%) 0.28 1.26
After DS 2009-2010 N (%) 0.01 0.07
P 9.67 15.36
K 231.75 348.74

Higher material cost was spent for the S&T farm than that of the MS
farm. However, the difference was attributed to the imputed cost of rice straw
applied as mulch, and the fertilizers applied. The MS farm spent more for seeds,
due to higher seeding rate. Higher fuel cost was spent under the MS farm since
irrigation time was longer. However, fertilizer expense was higher in the STBF.
Table 7. Cost and return analysis of white corn production in Batac City, Ilocos
Norte for two cropping cycles under the MS and S&T plots.
PARTICULAR DS 2008-2009 DS 2009-2010 AVERAGE

MS
Labor Cost 28,884 26,849 27,867
Material Cost 27,135 32,621 29,878
Total Production Cost 56,019 59,470 57,745
Yield (kg) 4,115 4,177 4,146
Price/kg 30 20 25
Gross Income 123,450 83,540 103,495
Net Profit 67,431 24,070 45,750
STBF
Labor Cost 28,793 25,900 27,347
Material Cost 31,146 31,292 31,219
Total Production Cost 59,939 57,192 58,566
Yield (kg) 4,925 4,622 4,774
Price/kg 30 20 25
Gross Income 147,750 92,440 120,095
Net Profit 87,811 35,248 61,530
Partial budget analysis for the two cropping cycles indicated that the S&T
interventions added benefits with an average of PhP 16,600/ha over that of the
MS practice (Table 8). Although the technology required an added cost of P
10,119/ha for rice straw as mulch, additional fertilizers, planting materials, and
labor for harvesting and post-harvest activities (directly related to the increase in
yield), they were compensated by the increase in yield and the reduction in the
cost of irrigation and weed management, seeds, and side-dressed fertilizer
(P9,298). Hence, adding mulch and following the recommended planting dis-
tance for Klasika, as well as balancing fertilization would give an average net
benefit of P 15,779/ha.

Table 8.Partial budget analysis of the MS practices versus the enhanced tech-
nology on white corn production in Batac City, Ilocos Norte in two
cropping cycles.
ITEMS DS 2008-2009 DS 2009-2010 AVERAGE
Added Benefits
Increase in yield 24,300 8,900 16,600
Reduced Benefit nil nil nil

Added Cost
Labor for mulching 1,274 1,422 1,348
Labor for planting 350 0 175
Labor for replanting 0 3 2
Labor for basal fertilizer
application 0 359 180
Labor for side dressing 700 241 471
Labor for threshing 266 152 209
Labor for drying 866 1,410 1,138
Labor for hauling and
stocking 91 49 70
Cost of seeds 0 364 182
Cost of basal fertilizer 4,796 2,254 3,525
Cost of rice straw 3,000 3,000 3,000
Cost of side dress 0 297 149
Cost of sacks 28 15 22
Sub-Total 11,371 9,566 10,119
Reduced Cost
Labor for basal fertilizer
application 55 0 28
Labor for irrigation 1,250 1,932 1,591
Labor for side dress ap-
plication 440 0 220
Labor for herbicide
spraying 0 1,449 725
Labor for spot weeding 1,193 1,204 1,199
Cost of side dress fertiliz-
ers 2,263 0 1,132
Cost of seeds 470 0 235
Cost of fuel and oil 1,080 3,579 2,330
Cost of herbicides 0 3,680 1,840
Sub-Total 6,311 11,844 9,298
Net Benefit 20 ,380 11,178 15,779

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The STBF project in Baoa West, Batac City, Ilocos Norte served as an
eye-opener of the profitability of farmers in Batac City. Such scheme of
environment-friendly farming was found effective in showcasing and promoting
science-based interventions in white corn and even the best practices of the MS
in rice production. Through the FFS and field visits, as well as the accessibility of
information from the FITS Center and distribution of IEC materials, farmers in
Batac City were able to widen their knowledge in farming.
The enhanced technology plot using minimum tillage with mulch,

following the recommended planting distance for Klasika variety, and applying
the appropriate kind and amount of fertilizers had higher yield of15% over the MS
best practices and provided 35% higher net profit. The additional labor costs for
mulching and fertilizer application under the enhanced technology compensated
for the savings on irrigation cost, herbicide spraying, and spot weeding. The
higher material cost under the MS plot was attributed mainly to the higher cost of
fuel for irrigation (18%) and cost of herbicide (57%). On the other hand, the use
of 2-3cm thick rice straw mulch can significantly reduce irrigation and weed
control expenses. Although frequency of irrigation is maintained throughout the
season, the mulch conserved soil moisture, thus, requiring less volume of water
to be applied every irrigation time. Weed growth can be better controlled with
mulching, hence reducing spot weeding costs. The mulch after plowing it under
also increased Potassium content of the soil.
After coming up with the final package of technology on white corn

production, information dissemination should be done to reach all white corn
producers, thus increasing white corn productivity not only in Batac, but in the
entire Ilocos Region. further, technology demonstration should be done
showcasing the technology components of the final POT. As the production of
white corn increases, the price decreases; hence, value-adding should be the
next phase of the project to enhance the market potential of white corn. Aside
from the cornick industry, other business ventures should be explored by
farmers. This could be done with the assistance of DOST and the continuous
support of ILARRDEC and PCAARRD.
Farmers are not just mere recipients of the technological breakthroughs

but also effective partners in technology generation and dissemination. In
addition, the strong involvement of the MS in the R&D programs has been
recognized as a very effective scheme. Hence, more MS should be identified
and tapped as partners in regional R&D activities.

REFERENCES
Bureau of Agricultural Statistics. 2010. Retrieved from http://www.bas.gov.ph/
COCAFM. 2012. A critique on the Rice and Corn Industry. p.4
Department of Agriculture. 2011. Agri-Pinoy Corn Program Annual Report.
Julian CB, LB Rafael, ID Dumaoal, CA Sabuco, and ECT Rigonan. 2005.

Economics of the Corn Industry in Ilocos Norte. Ilocos Agriculture and
Resources Research and Development. Retrieved from
Consortium.http://ilarrdec.mmsu.edu.ph/index.php?
option=com_content&task=view&id=63&Itemid=31
ILARRDEC.2010. Retrieved from http://ilarrdec.mmsu.edu.ph/.
Kluchinski, D. 2003. Crop Profile for Field Corn in New Jersey.http://

ww w. p e st ma n a g e me n t . ru t g e r s. e d u / NJ in P A S / C ro p P ro f ile s/
fieldcornprofile.pdf \
Office of the Provincial Government, Ilocos Norte. 2010.
PCAARRD. 2009. White Corn-Production Costs and Returns by Season in the

Philippines.
Tanchuling, Hazel. 2007. Prospects of the Philippine Corn Industry In: Rice
Watch and Action Network.

The Case of Cropping Systems
in Currimao, Ilocos Norte
Maribel B Alupay, Teresita I. Allado, Ida F. Baptista,
Concepcion L. Isaguirre, Bethzaida M. Catudan,
Alma C. Aguinaldo
INTRODUCTION
The Ilocano farmer usually tills a very small piece of land at an average
of 0.75 ha. If this area is not fully intensified, the farm income will be insufficient
to support a family of four. Studies conducted by the Philippine Rice Research
Institute showed that the highest annual income from a hectare can reach as
high as P176, 000 using intensified cropping pattern (Alquiza et.al, 2003).
Currimao, Ilocos Norte is highly dependent on rainfall for irrigation.

Hence, farmers follow one cropping each year. The most popular cropping
pattern is rice-corn-fallow, or ricevegetablefallow. Farmers transplant rice only
after rain water is enough for rice establishment, usually in late July or early
August. Meanwhile, corn is planted after rice so that farmers can utilize the
moisture left after harvest. Although farmers would like to plant more crops,
cropping intensification is constrained by moisture availability. With the short but
torrential rainy seasons and long drought-prone summers, the choice of crops to
grow the use of technologies to conserve moisture, and the corresponding timing
of planting are therefore essential.
The study demonstrated the effectiveness of S&T in improving the rice-

corn cropping pattern of the Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) and encourage
prospective farmers to adopt the recommended cropping pattern through the
Farmers Information and Technology Services (FITS) Center.
The S&T-based farm showcased the rice-onion+corn-mungbean

cropping pattern and compared it with the usual rice-corn cropping pattern of
farmers. Based on the result of the study of Alquiza et al. (2003) from among the
five planting calendars developed ( rice-pepper-corn relay, rice-corn-onion, rice-
mungbean+corn-corn, rice-mungbean-mungbean-corn and rice-onion-mungbean

217
+corn), the rice-onion-mungbean+corn cropping pattern grown from June to April
provided the highest net income of P170.416/ha/year.
Objectives
The research specifically aimed to:
document and package the recommended rice-based cropping

pattern;
enhance the rice-based production system of the Magsasaka
Siyentista (MS) applying science-based technologies;
promote the adoption of recommended rice-based cropping
pattern to at least 30 prospective farmer adaptors; and
provide appropriate technical assistance on the POT for rice-onion
+ zero tillage corn - mungbean cropping pattern by the MS.
METHODOLOGY
A. Organization of the Local Team
Table 1 presents the composition of the local team. The MS was chosen
based on her accomplishments as a Palayamanan farmer-partner and as a
farmer participant of the Technical Cooperation Project 3 (TCP3), a joint project
of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Local Government of
Currimao, Ilocos Norte and the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice). She
was conferred the status of MS by the Ilocos Agriculture Resources Research
and Development Consortium (ILARRDEC) and the then Philippine Council for
Agriculture Resources Research and Development (PCARRD) in 2006. She was
also awarded first runner-up for Most Outstanding Magsasaka Siyentista of
Region I in 2010. The MS established and managed the S&T-based set up and
also served as resource person during farm walks and field days.
Meanwhile, the Technical Service Specialist (TSS) supervised the

implementation of the interventions in the S&T set up while the FITS Manager
supervised and ensured the correct implementation of the project. The technical
experts, on the other hand monitored the interventions introduced to the S&T-
based farm, including the technical and financial aspects of the MS practice and
the S&T-based interventions.
The IPM expert provided suggestions and recommendations on the

management of pests and diseases that affected the crops, while the economist
provided assistance in the interpretation of the cost and return analysis of the
data gathered.

Table 1. Composition of the local team.
Position Staff
Magsasaka Siyentista: Ms. Teresita Allado
FITS Manager: Mr.. Leo Barroga (deceased)
Ms. Concepcion Isaguirre
Technical Experts: Ms. Ida F. Baptista
Ms. Evangeline P. Agres
Ms. Alma C. Aguinaldo
(Economist) Ms. Bethzaida Catudan
Focal Person from PMA: Ms. Maribel B. Alupay
While the focal person from the Partner Member Agency (PMA)
coordinated the implementation of the project, the local team was tasked to
monitor and evaluate the project.
B. Selection of the Project Site
The local team selected the area based on its accessibility. The site is
located along the national road. This is evident as the farm has become a
favorite stop-over of farmer leaders and farmers, scientists, researchers, and
even students during the conduct of their study trips. The total area of the farm is
2ha with available water supply for irrigation from the small farm reservoir (SFR)
located strategically inside the farm. The STBF area on the other hand, has a
contiguous area of 4,000m2, of which, 2,000m2 was used for the S&T set-up and
the other 2,000m2 was for the MS set up.
C. The RiceCorn Cropping Pattern in Currimao, Ilocos Norte
Most farmers in Currimao, Ilocos Norte plant corn, tobacco or vegetables

after harvesting rice. However, the most popular cropping pattern is the rice-corn-
fallow, or ricevegetablefallow because of the unavailability of irrigation during
the long dry season. Rice is transplanted in July or August. Most of the time, rice
is only planted upon the availability of rain water, as most fields in Currimao are
dependent on rain. Corn is planted immediately after rice to utilize the moisture
still available in the field. This cropping pattern gives the farmers only a small
income aside from not being able to maximize the utilization of the land.
The prevalent practice for rice production among farmers in the

municipality is transplanted rice. Most of the time, farmers transplant more than a
month old seedlings because they have to wait for the availability of rain water.
219
After rice, corn is immediately seeded. The general practice of farmers
for land preparation was the conventional furrow method; however, minimum
tillage, a strategy to reduce labor cost , is becoming popular.
D. Description of the MS and Her Best Practices
The Magsasaka Siyentista
Ms. Teresita Allado managed the S&T-based farm in Currimao, Ilocos

Norte. She was conferred MS by the ILARRDEC and PCARRD in 2006.
Ms Allado is a multi-awarded farmer-leader. Through her active role in

the implementation of the Palayamanan, she was awarded as best farmer-
leader, best farmer-cooperator, best farmer-researcher during the Palayamanan
Northwest Luzon Farmers Congress. She implemented several on farm
research studies to include Comparison of the Effect of Different Organic
Materials on Yield of Rice Grown in Rainfed Areas.
She was also the first runner-up in the 2010 Regional Search for Most
Outstanding Magsasaka Siyentista.
The Farm
The total area of the farm is 2ha with an SFR, which could irrigate and
sustain the growth of the different crops planted during the dry season while
doubling as a tilapia pond. The farm has a sandy loam soil type. The SBTF set
up was established in a 4,000m2 side-by-side the MS set up with the same area.
The farm of the MS served as the learning field and venue for cross
visits of extension workers, farmers, seed growers, and even experts. During
such cross visits, the MS served as a technology disseminator.
The MS Best Practices on Rice-Corn Cropping Pattern:
The MS followed the rice-corn or rice-vegetable cropping pattern. The

method of establishment for rice is the Modified Dry Direct Seeding Technology.
After rice, corn is established using zero tillage mulched with rice straw.
The MS best practice on Rice Production: the Modified Dry Direct Seeding
Technology (MDDST)
Schedule of Planting. The MS starts preparing the land after the dry
season crop is harvested to eradicate the weeds and to prepare the land early.
She believes that thorough land preparation is a very important component of the
MDDST. The MS usually starts land preparation in late May.

Variety. She plants the PSB Rc146 variety due to its short maturity of
104 days. The variety is also suited for dry and wet direct seeding. The variety
can produce up to 7 tons/ha with the best production practices.
Land Preparation and Planting. The MS, after plowing and harrowing
the field, allows the weeds to grow as part of controlling them. She then plows
and harrows (second rotavation) after the drop seeds and weed seeds have
germinated. During the final land preparation, the MS applies 10 bags/ha of
organic fertilizer. Furrows are then constructed at a distance of 20cm by the use
of a cow drawn plow. Broadcasting of seeds at a rate of 60kg/ha is only done
when the soil moisture has reached 20cm deep. After broadcasting the seeds, a
wooden plank is passed diagonally across the field to cover the seeds and for
seeds on top of the ridge to fall along the furrows.
Herbicide Application. Spraying of herbicides is done 1-2 days after

sowing. The MS makes sure that soil is moist during herbicide application.
Fertilizer Application. The amount of applied basal fertilizer is

3sacks/ha of 16-20-0, 14 days after planting (if water is available). This is based
on the result of soil analysis conducted in the MSs farm. Succeeding fertilizer
applications depends on the result of leaf color chart (LCC) readings.
Weed Control. The MS keeps her field weed free 40 days after
planting through hand weeding.
Care of direct seeded rice. Taking care of direct seeded rice is the
same as that of the transplanted rice.
Harvesting. Rice is harvested when 85% of the grains are golden

yellow.
MS Best Practice on Corn Production:
Schedule of Planting. The MS plants corn after the rice is harvested

in October and as soon as the right soil moisture content is reached. Too much
moisture in the soil would hamper seed germination or even the growth of the
newly-emerged plants.
Variety. The MS uses the Klasika hybrid variety, which gives higher
yield than the usual glutinous white corn varieties because of larger ears. The
variety can yield up to 4 tons/ha with the best production practices. The plant
height at maturity is 110 cm while the length of the ears ranges from 12 to 22cm.
The variety is also known among the people of Currimao as best for green corn
221
as it is being sold at P5/ear. However, it should be noted that its seed materials
are more expensive at P400-500/kg compared to that of the inbred white corn
seeds which are sold at P60/kg.
Land Preparation and Planting. The minimum tillage technique is

followed; hence, land preparation is minimal, too. After rice is harvested, rice
straw is mulched to preserve soil moisture.
In preparing the seeds for planting, the MS coats the seed with Bio-N
by placing the corn seeds in a suitable container, moisten them, and add a
packet of Bio-N for every 3kg of corn seeds, mixing thoroughly until seeds are
evenly coated. The seeds are planted immediately and ensured that they are not
exposed to sunlight. With the use of a wooden dibbler, 1 or 2 seeds/hill were
planted at 60cm between rows and 20cm between hills. With this distance, one
hectare requires 4 kg, including the material for replanting. This gives 71,500
plant population.
Fertilizer Application. The amount of fertilizer applied is based on

soil analysis and on the crop stand. The MS applies 3.33 bags of 16-20-0/ha
basal fertilizer. At 20-25 days after planting (DAP), she applies 1.67 bags 21-0-0/
ha., repeating the same at 38 DAP. This provides 62-33-0 kg NPK/ha.
Application varies depending on the crop or stand appearance. The MS
complements her application of chemical fertilizers with decomposed farm
residues such as animal manure, rice straw and mahogany leaves, and dried
chicken manure (33bags/ha). These decomposted farm residues are
incorporated during fallow period before rice planting.
Weed Control. For the MS practice, Sharp Shooter, a post-emergence

herbicide is sprayed 8-12 days before planting. At the STBF, as the corn was
dibbled in-between the onion rows, manual weeding was done. Succeeding
weed growth was controlled by manual weeding.
Irrigation. The MS floods the field five times for the whole season.
First irrigation is done at 10-14DAP and the succeeding two irrigations at 9-12
days interval while the last two irrigations at 12-15 days interval.
Pest Monitoring. Pests are closely monitored from 21 to 65 DAP, to

identify early on and provide remedial measures on time. She follows the
principles of Integrated Pest Management and sprays insecticide only if needed.
Harvesting and Post Harvest Activities. Most of the corn ears are
harvested green. However, those not sold as green are harvested at 105 DAP,
then corn with husk is sundried for at least 15 days while corn without husk is
sundried before shelling. The dry corn for grains are then packed in sacks and
stored.

The S&T Interventions:
Although the MSs cropping pattern was found effective and suited for
the present situation in the locality, the technical experts recognized the need to
improve the cropping pattern or system. Hence the following interventions were
showcased at the S&T Farm:
Planting of onions after rice is harvested. The MS planted onion after

rice or as soon as soil moisture was right for planting. Rice straw was mulched to
conserve the moisture in the field after rice was harvested.
Planting of Corn. Hybrid white corn (klasika) was relayed along the
rows of onions, 45 days after planting and before the last irrigation. The seeds
were soaked in water mixed with bio-N for 12 hours and drained. The seeds
were dibbled along the onion rows at the distance of 75cm between rows and
25cm between hills; 1-2seeds were dibbled per hill.
Planting of mungbean. After corn was harvested, mungbean was

planted following the minimum tillage method.
E. Establishment of the S&T-Based Farm
The demonstration farm was established at the farm of MS Teresita

Allado in Pias Norte, Currimao, Ilocos Norte from June 2009 - June 2010 for the
first season and from June 2010 - June 2011 for the second season. The total
area of the demo farm was 4000m2. It was divided into two plots, each measuring
2000m2. The practices of the MS were demonstrated in the MS set up, while the
S&T set up was established on the adjacent plots. Each of the technology
components was followed at the MS and the S&T set up (Figure 1).

223
Table 1. The difference of the production technology used at the S&T Farm and
the MS practice. PhilRice Batac 2010.
CROP TECHNOLOGY MS PRACTICE S&T CROPPING SYS-

COMPONENT TEMS
Rice corn cropping Rice-onion-corn relay
pattern (zero tillage)
Rice The same production technology was used
Onion Planting Time Planting of onion Immediately after rice is

was not part of the harvested, and when
MSs practice the moisture of the field
is right for germination
of onion seeds
Variety Australian variety
Land preparation Minimum tillage,

mulched
Fertilizer Broadcast is:
Application 14-14-14 @ 4.29bags/
ha
16-20-0 @ 6bags/ha
Planting Dibbling at 20cm x
20cm; mulching after
planting and irrigating
via sprinkling.
Weed Spraying sharpshooter
management before planting
Water Sprinkling after 10DAP

management and when needed
Side dressing Applying 46-0-0

@1.83bas/ha by placing
a pinch of the fertilizer
at the base of each
plant
Weeding 30days after DAP
Potassium Spraying potassium

spraying after 48days DAP @ 2
tsp/knapsack sprayer;
Spraying potassium
mixed with insecticide
@ 3tbsp/knapsack
sprayer 54 DAP
Removal of Removing flowers at
flowers 54DAP
Harvesting Harvesting onion after
64 DAP for drying

CROP TECHNOLOGY MS PRACTICE S&T CROPPING

COMPONENT SYSTEMS
Corn Time of Planting After rice is harvested Dibbling along onion
when soil moisture is rows, before the last
suited for corn seed irrigation, 50DAP
germination
Variety Hybrid corn (klasika) Relaying hybrid
(klasika) in onion before
the last irrigation
Land preparation Using minimum till- Using minimum tillage,
age, mulched mulched
Seed Soaking in water Soaking in water mixed
preparation mixed with bio-n for with bio-n for 12 hrs,
12 hrs, and drained and drained
Planting Along furrows Planting at a distance of
75cm between rows
and 25cm between hills
75 cm; 1-2seeds/hill
along onion rows
Water Flooding as needed Flooding as needed
Management
Harvesting Sold as green Sold as green corn
Mung- Time of planting Planting of mung- After harvesting

bean bean was not part
of the MS practice
Planting Dibbling at 50-60 cm
distance at 2-3 seeds/
hill
Water As needed
management
Nutrient Applying 4bags/ha of 16
Management -20-0
Harvesting Harvesting 60-70days
after planting or when
75% of the pods are
dried.
WS 2009 DS 2010 (June 2009 June 2010)
The STBF set up on rice- onion + corn - mungbean cropping pattern was
initiated in 2009 wet season. The set up was established in June 2009. Low rice
yield was recorded from both the S&T farm and the MS farm because of the dev-
astation of typhoon Pepeng. The MS practice plots were severely affected to-
gether with the S&T farm, because the grains were submerged for 5 days.

225
The area planted for onions was smaller (1,380m2) than that (2,000m2)
of the proposal because of limited seed materials (only 133 kilos was available)
and high cost of planting materials (P130/kg). The planting schedule for onion
was delayed for 2 weeks (November 11, 2009 instead of 2 nd week of October) as
the area was still wet after rice harvest. Due to the cold weather from December
to January including the dewy conditions during the vegetative stage of the
onion, about 1% was infected by fungus. After harvest, the price of onions
dropped to P23/kg.
For corn, many of the relayed corn along the onion rows did not
germinate. Result of the monitoring conducted showed that rats dug and
destroyed the corn seedlings. The MS replanted at 7 days after planting (DAP),
after the onions were harvested. However, there were more missing hills of the
corn population under the STBF set-up compared with the MS set up. T h e
MS rotavated the mungbean plants after the first harvest due to the early on-set
of rains in May 2010. This resulted to the low yield gained from mungbean
(85kg). The mungbean leaves and stalks though were used as green manure.
WS 2010 DS 2011 (June 2010 June 2011)
The S&T set up was established on June 17, 2010. However, the MS
replanted and transplanted NSIC Rc192 after the plants were destroyed due to
the long dry spell that followed the early rains in May. This resulted to increased
production cost and delayed rice harvesting and planting of the succeeding
crops. For corn, hybrid corn (klasika) seeds were not available during the time of
planting at the S&T set up, thus the MS planted the white open-pollinated corn
variety, which matured longer than the hybrid Klasika corn. This resulted to
another delay in 2 weeks for mungbean planting. This is the reason why the
estimated yield of mungbean is presented in this paper. Consequently, gathering
of soil samples, the last activity for the project, was also delayed until after the
mungbean was harvested. On the other hand, hybrid (klasika) corn was planted
as there were still available seeds during the time of planting under the MS set-
up.
The direct beneficiaries of the project were the MS and the 30 farmers in
Currimao who were potential adopters of the package of technology (POT).
Aside from them, the farmers and other stakeholders who visit the MS farm are
benefited as well.
E. Monitoring and Evaluation
Close monitoring of the project was done by the AT assigned in the

area, TSS, ISS and FITS manager particularly during the critical growth stages of
the crop. Problems encountered were documented and reported. The focal

person and the technical experts together with ILARRDEC representatives
likewise monitored and evaluated how the project was properly implemented.
Recording and documentation activities across different crop growth stages were
done by the MS.
F. Process Documentation
Technical Aspects
Process documentation was done to record the various processes and

methods implemented in establishing the project. This served as a ready
reference for implementers and beneficiaries in deciding or evaluating, which
processes were appropriate.
For this project, process documentation looked into the following

components:
Techno demo farm and crop establishment as well as the POT
provided by the MS enhanced with S&T interventions;
Promotional activities vis-a-vis the number of participants and
prospective technology users; and
Feedback on technology utilization and project management.
Data Gathered
Yield data were gathered from both the MS and the S&T-based plot. So
the data gathered include:
yield data
labor and materials used in each plot (cost and return analysis); and
insect pest and disease occurrence and prevalence from planting to
harvesting.
Data gathering on the yield parameters was done by the MS and the AT.
The MS was strongly involved in this activity, because she had observe and
record the results of the S&T interventions.
Financial Aspect of the Study
All the expenses incurred in each activity, both under the MS and S&T
plots, were recorded. Record-keeping was done by the MS through the
assistance of the AT. The financial analysis was a joint responsibility of the AT
and the economist from the group of technical experts.

227
A. Increased in Yield and Income in the Adoption of S&T Interventions

The success in implementing the rice-onion+zero tillage corn-mungbean
cropping pattern was attributed to the early planting interventions in the S&T set
up. According to Alquiza (2003), water scarcity does not allow planting of four
crops per year. However, if water conservation practices were employed, like
mulching, relay cropping, four crops could be planted.
Similarly, land preparation for the first crop started as soon as the dry
season crops were harvested. A well-prepared soil is a key to the success of the
Modified Dry Direct Seeding Technology (MDDST) as practiced by the MS. The
MS established rice a month earlier than the usual planting time of most farmers
in the area, wherein they wait for the rains before transplanting 1 until 2 months
old seedlings. As soon as the dry season crops were harvested in May, the MS
prepared the land for the wet season planting of rice. And after the field had
enough moisture (moisture depth of 25 30cm), the MS established the rice
component. Such technology is appropriate in the area (favorable rainfed)
because if its sandy loam soil.
Table 2 shows the comparison of the profitability performance of the S&T

and the MS plots. The S&T set-up consistently provided higher net income during
the two cropping years than that of the MS set up. However, the former required
more investment, particularly on the production inputs.
Based on the summarized table (Table 3), income derived from the S&T
set up (rice-onion + corn-mungbean cropping pattern) doubled in both years of
implementation compared with the income derived from the rice-corn cropping
pattern. However, the capital requirement needed for both years tripled.
The implementation of the S&T interventions demonstrated that intensive

cropping pattern or the (rice-onion + corn-mungbean cropping pattern) can
augment the low income from the rice-corn or rice-vegetable cropping pattern.
Establishing the crop early and planting early and short-maturing varieties
allowed the planting of four crops in one cropping season, thus gaining higher
income. Intensive cropping pattern also minimized the effect of rain
unpredictability. Mixed cropping may have low yield potential but it works as a
buffer against failure under possible unfavorable conditions such as natural
calamities (Colorado State 2011). Typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng caused a
domino effect on the rice-onion+corn-mungbean set up and rice-corn set up. This
includes low yield, late planting of onion, high price and limited supply of onion
seed materials and late establishment of corn and mungbean. Low yield was
compensated because of the diversification and intensification of crops planted.

Table 2. Cost and return analysis by crop component of the S&T and MS set up,
CY2009 2010 and CY 2010 - 2011.
PRODUC-
GROSS NET INCOME
AREA (m2) CROP TION COST
INCOME (P) (P)
(P)
First Year (2009 - 2010)
S&T set up
2,102 Rice 9,860 6,037 3,823
1,380 Onion 40,733 26,202 14,531
2,102 Corn 24,530 7,604 16,926
2,102 Mungbean 4,675 4,026 649
TOTAL/farm 79,798 43,869 35,929
TOTAL/ha 379,629 208,702 170,927
MS set up
2,142 Rice 4,785 6,440 (1,655)
2,142 Corn 27,474 8,038 19,436
TOTAL/farm 32,259 14,477 17,782
TOTAL/ha 150,637 67,603 83,034
Second Year (2010 - 2011)
S&T set up
2102 Rice 21,168 9,752 11,416
1686 Onion 81,305 23,192 58,113
2102 Corn 25,940 7,368 18,572
2102 Mungbean 19,525 5,415 14,110
TOTAL/farm 147,938 45,728 102,210
TOTAL/ha 703,796 217,545 486,252
MS set up
2,142 Rice 17,640 8,564 9,076
2,142 Corn 41,441 6,254 35,187
TOTAL/farm 59,081 14,817 44,264

TOTAL/ha 275,886 69,192 206,694
Nevertheless, income from the rice-onion+corn-mungbean cropping pat-

tern was higher than that of the rice corn cropping pattern as losses were com-
pensated by the gains obtained from planting four crops instead of just two.

229
Table 3. Two-year average of the profitability analysis per hectare of the S&T
and MS set-up, CY 2009-2011. Currimao, Ilocos Norte
. Profitability
Item 2009-2010 2010-2011
S&T S&T MS
SET-UP MS SET-UP SET-UP SET-UP
Gross Income (P/ha) 379,629 150,637 703,796 275,886
Production Cost( P/kg) 208,702 67,603 217,545 69,192
Net Income (P/ha) 170,927 83,034 486,251 206,694
Unit cost of production
(P/m2) 20.87 6.76 21.75 6.92
Marginal Profit (P/m2) 17.09 8.30 48.63 20.67
The production technologies used and advocated by the project are

environment-friendly. The early establishment technique and the use of short
maturing varieties allowed for earlier harvesting of the dry season crop
(mungbean) providing a follow period of at least one month. Using minimum
tillage in the rice-onion+corn-mungbean cropping pattern preserved and allowed
the full utilization of soil moisture and improved soil water retention. The rice
straw mulch also served as additional organic fertilizer and increased water-
holding capacity of the soil. In addition, it controlled the proliferation of weeds.
The mungbean, aside from providing additional income, likewise served as green
manure. Legumes, like mungbean, are rich sources of organic fertilizer.
Moreover, soil under no-till production systems stores more water than soil on
conventional stubble mulch systems and it allows conversion to more intense
crop rotations and higher profit (Croissant, 2008).
The projects close collaboration with the LGU earned the support of the
municipal executive and legislative offices. In fact, the commitment of the
experts, the AEWs, and the MS to develop and promote the S&T interventions
was recognized by the local executive.
B. Promotional Activities Conducted at the MS farm

Field days were conducted showcasing the study to farmers and other
stakeholders. The first field day was conducted on January 12, 2010, where
onion production was showcased to farmers and other stakeholders. In that
activity, the MS presented the cropping system implemented in her farm. A total
of 83 participants attended the field day, where the result of the first year of the
STBF implementation was presented.

The second field day was conducted on April 4, 2011 wherein results of
both the first and second cycles of the STBF implementation were presented to
the participants.
As a resource person, the MS shared her best production practices,

particularly, the rice-onion + corn-mungbean cropping pattern during the farmers
class on rice production and cropping systems with special topics on off-season
vegetable production in Brgy. Saugan, Currimao, Ilocos Norte. A total of 30
farmers attended the farmers class from April to July 2010.
Social acceptability of the project was also evident in the number of

groups of farmers/researchers/experts who visited the site. Aside from the
regular two field days and field walks conducted, the farm of the MS is a regular
itinerary of farmers and researchers. During visits, the MS provided briefings
regarding the profitability of the Rice-Onion + Corn- Mungbean cropping pattern
(Table 4).
C. Equipment Provided and Improvement of the Learning Center
A water pump with hose was provided to the MS in order to supply water
needed in her farm. Likewise, the learning center located within the MS farm was
improved.
D. IEC materials produced
Table 4. List and groups of farmers/students, researchers, agriculture extension

workers who were briefed by the MS of the profitability of the
rice,onion-relay corn, mungbean cropping systems. CY 2009 2011.
DATE GROUP OF VISITORS NUMBER OF
PARTICIPANTS
July 4, 2009 JICA experts visit 10
July 7, 2009 TCP3 evaluation by JICA experts 3
July 15, 2009 TCP3 final evaluation by JICA experts 12
Aug 18, 2009 Aldiz Meeting at the MS farm 14
Sept. 28, 2009 Interview MS on organic vegetable production 3
(DMMMSU)
Nov. 16, 2009 PhilRice CES monitoring of Palayamanan sites 1
Dec. 9, 2009 PCARRD evaluation of the S&T project 4
Dec. 16, 2009 NIA TCP2 La Union 46
Feb 18, 2010 Cross Visit of Regional Agriculture and Fishery Council 33
-CAR
May 20, 2010 Season Long Trainees of PalayCheck System for AEWs 30
in Region III
January 2011 Cross visit of VCARRD 16
May 14, 2011 Visit of Dr. Gella T. Castillo, National Scientist and 2
PhilRice Board of Trustee Member and National
Programs Relations (NPR) of IRRI, Mr. Julian A.
Lapitan of the STBF site

231
The best rice production practices such as the MDDST and seedling
production on trays were featured in both video and leaflet formats. Copies of the
leaflet were distributed to farmers and to the different FITS centers through
ILARRDEC. Additionally, a leaflet and a poster on the rice-onion + corn-mungbean
cropping pattern were also produced.
CONCLUSION
The rice-onion+corn-mungbean cropping pattern is more productive and
profitable than the rice-corn-fallow cropping pattern, which is prevalently practiced
by most farmers in Currimao. Likewise, the S&T interventions developed are
effective ways to maximize the use of relatively small parcel of lands.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The rice-onion+corn-mungbean cropping pattern could be used as one of
the platforms in attaining food sustainability and in augmenting the income of
families tilling small farm lands. However, the same cropping pattern can be
followed by farmers with more capital, technical expertise, and readily available
water resources.
Another proposal must be drafted and submitted to concerned government

agencies in order to finance the dissemination of the technology to more farmer
stakeholders.
Further, the LGU through the FITS Center and ILARRDEC should lead the
advocacy for the adoption of this technology to farmers.
REFERENCES
AGUINALDO, ALMA, et al 2009. Profitability of the Palayamanan.
ALQUIZA, PRECY, et al. 2003. Development of Planting Calendars based on Agro-

climatic Indices, Water Availability and the Avoidance of pests and Adverse
Conditions.
CASTRO, REYNALDO, 2002. Bringing the Palayamanan to the Community: The

Real Learning for real farming experience.
http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/crops/00516.html (Retrieved on May 29, 2011)
http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/crops/00516.html (Retrieved on May 29, 2011)
http://www.sarc.montana.edu/php/Cropping_Systems.php (Retrieved on May 29,

2011)

Understanding the Success
and Limitation of the Science and
Technology-Based Farm
in the Ilocos
Leonardo T. Pascua, Love Grace DC. Campano,
Lilibeth C. Paraoan, Mary Anne R. Rarogal,
Richard F. Guinsatao and Cheryll C. de la Cruz
General Conclusion about the STBF in the Ilocos
R&D Management Practices. Several strategies can facilitate in

carrying out STBF and the utilization and adoption of S&T interventions.
Proper selection, evaluation, and mobilization of the local team in

organizational dynamics ensure the utilization and adoption of S&T interventions.
Identification of the right people is very critical in the conduct of STBF and any
technology promotion activities. By using a critical evaluation can make any
project successful. Tapping the experts from research institutions and the
academe had been a great help in the conduct of the project.
Partnership is the cornerstone of any undertaking. Strategically, this

should be intensified. If it is harnessed, this would give synergies of an
unparalleled magnitude. Partnership involves accountability and responsibility in
whatever level regardless of stature; resource sharing and implementation
ensures sustainability of a project. There is equity in partnership building which
means that each must give their best for the project in whatever form, regardless
of their status/stature. Mobilizing committed experts and staff can lessen the
work load and contribute to the smooth implementation of a project.
Each stakeholder is accountable and responsible for the success and

even the failure of the project regardless of whatever amount, quantity, or form
shared in the project implementation.
The scope is expanded to include a wide range of organization such as a

public-private sectors partnership. The public-private sectors partnership is one

235
of the ways to increase the probability of success, since there is no single
organization that can effectively address complex developmental issues. The
roles of the public and private sectors and their relationships are dynamic to fit
the call of the times. The impact of R&D can only be fully realized if all
stakeholders are full pledged partners in technology development and
dissemination. Forging strong partnerships with the LGUs at the provincial,
municipal, and barangay levels was a good step in strengthening the
relationships among partners.
Flexible fund management is encouraged but should be in accordance

with auditing procedures. Fund restriction should be at reasonable level and do
not sacrifice the project results, otherwise, this spells negative consequences to
productivity and efficiency in R&D. Thus, the efficiency and productivity of the
project should be the prime considerations. The investments of the government
should return in hundred folds in a long term benefits to the stakeholders,
community and consumers.
Problems should be treated as opportunities not as threat. This

enhances project implementation if mechanisms are in place. The conduct of
meetings and regular monitoring softens the effect of problems. Meetings are the
venue of group discussion and sharing insights. Analysis of problems can offer
good access to a participatory process. This stimulates the project staff to
discuss and offer possible solutions to problems based on their knowledge and
experiences. This group discussion can create confidence on them because they
enable to think and express that can facilitate actively participate in the
discussion.
Field visitations, monitoring and dialogues are vital in the assessment

of the progress of the project. This also included the giving of technical
assistance, documentation of activities, and recording of issues/concerns that
emerged in the process. Problems that arise in the field are solved outright. It is a
feedback mechanism strategy and as an input in conducting future experiments if
problems could not be solved immediately.
Safety nets were in place to soften negative impact of the problems such
as calamities. Experiencing calamities in the conduct of projects are part and
handling the situation are the lessons learned. Calamities are expected because
these are beyond our control. Preparedness, innovations and initiatives can be
the solution to lessen the negative impact of the project.
STBF as a platform of adaptive research cum technology

promotion. The conduct of STBF serves as a platform of adaptive research and
became an avenue to discuss the gaps, consider possible solutions and
generate activities in the planning, implementation and the interpretation of

results. Ample knowledge on the cultural management and ecology of the crop
determines what specific technologies to be enhanced. Analysis of the
production systems gave ideas what specific technology options can be
integrated. By thorough discussion during the inception meeting, this gave an
opportunity of the members of the PMT to discuss and come up with unified
recommendations. The vast experience, knowledge and insights of PMT
members gave better direction of the STBF.
The conduct of STBF has a great contribution to capacity building.

Researchers are not only as experts in the conduct of experiments and subject
matter specialists but they also serve as mentors. This becomes the training
ground of PMT members to develop their research capabilities and facilitating
technology promotion activities. This also mobilized the research capacity of the
Magsasaka Siyentista. This creates a partnership by bringing together
researchers, agricultural extension workers, research managers and farmers to
work together for a common goal. Its implementation gave insights and lessons
on gap analysis, identification of solutions, verifying the solutions using simple
experiment, analysis of the result and coming up with conclusion and
recommendations. As a common observation, farmers only focus on trying or
experimenting new technologies in their own capacity giving no emphasis on the
other activities which are equally important in coming up with a reasonable and
convincing result. As a recommendation, a more meaningful knowledge can be
learned about the production system if the whole process will be followed.
The STBF was not only for an adaptive research but this is very effective
show window in the promotion of science-based technologies to farmers.
Complementing the conduct of an adaptive research with promotional activities
gave a great success which greatly facilitates the link of research and extension.
Employing technology promotional strategies such as the conduct of technology
field days, techno clinics and on-site trainings, cross-field visits, press and
broadcast releases and information, education and communication (IEC)
materials production and distribution hasten the utilization and adoption of S&T
interventions.
Through the STBF, some farmers association were organized which

created better and stronger ties and relationships among farmers in the locality.
Farmers have their ability to exchange or share openly their ideas and
experiences in farming to help one another to improve their knowledge and skills.
Benefits derived in the implementation of STBFs
The implementation of the STBF across commodities had undoubtedly

etched a significant change in the practices of farmers which led to beneficial

impacts on the social, economic, and environmental aspects of the farmers
being. The concern is not only reaching out to more people, but also the
manifestation of sustainable benefits. The STBF is very useful in promoting
science based technologies and become an avenue for stakeholders to obtain
benefits.
Social Benefits. In the implementation of STBFs, farmers were

mobilized; hence their potentials were unleashed. Farmers were not just mere
recipients of the technological breakthroughs but also effective partners in
technology generation and dissemination. In addition, the strong involvement of
the MS in the R&D programs has been recognized as a very effective scheme.
The organization of farmers associations, specifically the Kailokuan Saniata
Growers Cooperative (KASACoop), Pasuquin Garlic Growers Association
(PGGA), and the Association of Partuat E-Kawayan (APEK) became an avenue
for farmers to be technically equipped and empowered. These organizations
helped them to expand their horizon and develop strong partnerships and
linkages with other farmers, institutions, and organizations which can push them
to achieve greater potentials.As STBF partners, various stakeholders performed
roles in implementing the project. As such, they enjoyed equity, not necessarily
equality, in terms of sharing their best for the projects regardless of their status/
stature.
Economic Benefits. In general, the S&T interventions implemented

across commodities rendered positive effects on the yield and income of farmers.
The enhanced technologies produced higher yield of better quality due to the
holistic farming management interventions. Although the income varied in
different commodities as reflected in the profitability analysis, on the whole, there
has been a significant increase in the income of the farmers. Not only did they
gain from the raw produce but also from the by-products. Improved packaging
and labelling have contributed much in the marketing of their by products
especially dragon fruit and sugarcane vinegar which consequently led to more
production and income. In the case of dragon fruit, the farm has become an agri-
tourist site, which is now being visited by foreign and local tourists, hence, added
income to the MS. Moreover, in the case of goat production, the conversion of
wastes into organic fertilizer added income for the MS and supplemented the
added cost of establishing and producing forages.
Environmental Benefits. The most significant benefit in the

implementation of the STBF on the environment is the gradual restoration of the
rich, natural elements of the soil which have been depleted due to continuous
use of inorganic inputs in farming. In most of the STBFs, the use of organic
matters in the production of the different commodities was one of the S&T
interventions employed. The MSs claimed that with the application of organic
fertilizer in their farms, the soil has tremendously improved. No less than MS

Virgilio Gaudia testified that weeds in his enhanced practice area for sugarcane
production were easily pulled because of the organic fertilizer applied, which
improved soil friability and quality. Likewise, the use of tea manures, plant and
fruit juices, biological pesticides, and planting barrier or repellent crops for
vegetable, white corn, table tomato, garlic, and dragon fruit have provided better
and safer farm produce and at the same time, beneficial to the environment.
Additionally, the use of processed chicken manure and Carbonized Rice Hull
(CRH) improved and enhanced soil texture making it more porous which favours
better root development and enhances water/moisture absorption. The
establishment of the STBF on bamboo production and rejuvenation also provided
valuable information on the importance of environmentally sustainable bamboo
production scheme that will help conserve natural resources.
Upscaling STBF and sustainability
The STBF is just an initial step in this technological innovation. It may be

limited in scope but this is an avenue for more innovation. The involvement of
other farmers has created awareness and lessons how this can be undertaken,
and applying the technological innovations and technology options being
showcased. This can also encourage more aggressive technology promotion and
adoption of the technology options not only the neighboring farms but in wider
scope.
The experiences and results of the STBF had demonstrated the

effectiveness and enhanced the profitability farms of specific production system
and proven effective in technology adoption by farmers. The initiated STBF in the
community should be sustained by the conduct of a community based STBF. The
community STBF can encourage, develop and build communities to help
accelerate industries in Region 1 guided by the principles of peoples
participation, relevance, empowerment, capability building, networking and
collaboration. As an R&D utilization modality for rapid diffusion and
commercialization of research results, Community Based STBF incorporates
appropriate locally developed technologies, partnership building, and community
enterprise and industry development.
The supply chain management can be a good model in the community

based STBF. By integrating various techniques, methodologies and approaches
that will efficiently and seamlessly combining together the input supplies,
production of raw materials, post harvest, processing, packaging and labeling,
warehousing, distribution and marketing at the highest quality, at the right
quantity, at the right condition and at the right cost with utmost satisfaction of
consumers.

Sustainability means more than just agricultural activities that are
environmentally neutral or positive, but implies the capacity for activities and
benefits to spread beyond in both space and time. The involvement of local
government units through the FITS centers in the municipal/city agriculture office
in the project gave good signal that the technologies are part in the promotion or
extension activities of agricultural extension workers. Further, the increasing
technology adopters will equally sustain the dissemination of the technologies to
more farmers. When benefits are reaped, sustainability remains.
REFERENCES
PASCUA, LT. 2008. Initiatives in managing the Techno Gabay Program in the
Ilocos. PHILARM Journal. 5(1): 107-120.
PASCUA, LT, RAPOSAS, LM, DACUYCUY, EA, ADALEM, IG, PASCUA, MDP,
SABAS, AR, SAOIT, RB, CRUZ, WC DE LA, PARAOAN, LC,
ALIMBUYUGUEN, MM, GANO, FMR, GABRIEL, ML, CAMPANO, LGC,
RAROGAL, MAR, NICOLAS, SB, MALAB, SC, PASCUA, ME, LAGMAY,
NB and SADUMIANO, AS. 2010.Innovations and Initiatives on R&D for
S&T Productivity and Sustainable Development of Dragon Fruit.
and GANO, FMR. 2013. RDE Management on Dragon Fruit and Its
and GANO, FMR. 2013. Technology Promotion on Dragon Fruit and Its
Implication to Economic and Social Responsibility: Partnership with the
Department of Education and the Community. Paper presented during
the 23th PhilARM Convention, April 16-18, 2013. Naga City
.
PASCUA, LT, PARAOAN, CAMPANO, LGC, LC, RAPOSAS, LM, ADALEM IG,
GABRIEL, ML, PASCUA, MDP, ALIMBUYUGUEN, MM, and GANO,
FMR, SAMSON, ET, NAGTALON, EC, RAROGAL, MA, NICOLAS, SB
and GUINSATAO, R 2013. Bringing Science to the People: The Project
Saniata Experience. Paper presented during the 33rd Annual Philippine
American Association of Scientists and Engineers Meeting and
Symposium January 30-February 01, 2013 Plaza del Norte Laoag City,
Ilocos Norte, Philippines.

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ISBN 978-971-786-0077

Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic, and Resources Research

ILAARRDEC is mandated to coordinate, monitor, and evaluate the implementation of

Backed-up by 18 solid and supportive member-agencies, the consortium maintains its

MAILING ADDRESS ILOCOS AGRICULTURE, AQUATIC,

Unleashing the Potentials of

Leonardo T. Pascua, Aida D. Solsoloy,

Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic, and Resources Research

City of Batac 2906 Ilocos Norte

The ILAARRDEC secretariat: Richard Guinsatao, Cheryll de la Cruz, and

ISBN 978-971-786-0077 Philippine copyright 2014 by ILARRDEC

This book discusses the different experiences of the STBF implementers

The STBFs endeavor to improve farm or enterprise productivity by

This book presents a glimpse of the experiences and success stories of

Chapter I. Championing the Techno Gabay Program in 3

Chapter II. Establishment of Science and Technology 23

Chapter III. R&D Management on the Utilization and 29

Chapter IV. R&D Management on the Utilization and 57

Chapter V. R&D Management on the Utilization and 77

Chapter VI. Tomato Production in Alaminos City: The 109

Chapter VII. R&D Management on the Utilization and 125

Chapter VIII. R&D Management on the Utilization and 141

Chapter IX. R&D Management on the Utilization and 159

Chapter X. R&D Management on the Utilization and 179

Chapter XI. R&D Management on the Utilization and 195

Chapter XII. R&D Management on the Utilization and 217

III. Understanding the Success and Limitations of the 235

The major concern of the government in addressing farmers needs is the

The Techno Gabay Program (TGP) in the Ilocos, which is managed by

Unleashing the Potentials of STBF 3

The TGP evolved from technology-transfer projects, namely: the One

The operation of the two technology-transfer projects was supervised by two

4 Unleashing the Potentials of STBF

Integration of Modalities into the Techno Gabay Program

With the plurality of experiences in implementing the different modalities, the

The IEC services focused more on producing information, education, and

Unleashing the Potentials of STBF 5

6 Unleashing the Potentials of STBF

The approval of TGP framework by the RRDCC and the Regional

Start of the Enhancement Phase

In 2006, TGP was strengthened via the integration of two programs,

Unleashing the Potentials of STBF

Enhancing Clientele-Partners and Organizational Capabilities

Various activities were conducted to enhance the capabilities of FITS

8 Unleashing the Potentials of STBF

Furthermore, the local government units were mobilized through the

Packaging and Sharing S&T-based Information

Unleashing the Potentials of STBF 9

Institutionalizing Initiatives and Innovations

ILAARRDEC has institutionalized practices to fast track sharing of

10 Unleashing the Potentials of STBF

Unleashing the Potentials of STBF 11

Prior to the establishment of the TGP framework, resolutions were

Designation of FITS Staff and Provincial Coordinators

To ascertain that FITS staff and the provincial coordinators to

12 Unleashing the Potentials of STBF

An inter-disciplinary approach was introduced by pooling available

Planning through Focused Group Discussion

Before any major activity was implemented, planning was done by

The intention was to create an impact on the lives of clients, particularly

The FGD served as a venue for identifying the technology needs of

Managing S&T-based Agricultural Development

Magsasaka Syentista farms as a learning venue for students