Australian farm experts see promise in Leyte horticulture

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) are looking forward to developing the potential and sustainability of five horticulture projects in Leyte.

The projects under the Horticulture Program on Fruits and Vegetables of DOST and ACIAR are being monitored by a team led by Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) acting executive director Reynaldo Ebora and Mat Kimberley, Australian Deputy Head of Mission, at the Visayas State University (VSU) and Barangay Kilim, Baybay City in Leyte.

The team visited soil fertility and crop nutrition trials at Farmville, VSU.

VSU Soils Project's Dr. Rosario Salas said the nutrient rate trial aims to determine optimum fertilizer levels that balance profitability without damaging the environment.

The team also interacted with undergraduate students and researchers of the vegetable integrated crop management (ICM) project site.

VSU Department of Food Science and Technology's Roberta Lauzon showed the team the different products derived from jackfruit and discussed the zero-waste processing of the commodity.

“The project was not only able to develop new products but also created livelihood opportunities for farmers and women cooperators,” Lauzon said.

The protective cropping system at the farm of farmer-scientist Albert Rosillo, who also serves as cooperator of the Vegetable ICM project in Kilim, has shown promising results, the DOST said.

Rosillo said that with protective cropping, he could produce more than two tons in 30 harvestings of cucumber in about 800 square meters.

"The site demonstrated that good yield is possible with the said system even during rainy season where production risks are high. The Farmer Scientist also shared that the structure can withstand typhoons because of its removable plastic cover. The technology is considered suitable in building resilient farming communities in typhoon-prone areas," Rosillo said.

Dr. Remberto A. Patindol, VSU Vice President for Administration and Finance, thanked ACIAR and DOSTPCAARRD for funding the projects that led to the improved research capabilities and facilities of the University.

The Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research is dedicated to encouraging and supporting agricultural researchers in different parts of the world.