PCARRD annual report 1996

The year 1996 witnessed PCARRD's enduring commitment in harnessing R and D [research and development] for sustainable development and global competitiveness. On technology promotion and commercialization, it continued supporting the DOST [Department of Science and Technology] Comprehensive Technology Promotion and Commercialization Programs on mango, rapid composting and use of compost as fertilizer, small farm reservoir, cassava and soybean. It has commercialized seven new and ten existing technologies. Fourteen technologies on new production and postproduction practices and machinery were generated by the NARRDN [National Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Network] and are ready for dissemination. Several technology-based trainings were also conducted and coordinated nationwide and participated in by farmers, technicians, researchers, entrepreneurs, government officials and staff, and other interested individuals and groups. PCARRD also conducted, assisted, or participated in various technology for exhibits, fairs, seminars, conferences, and other activities which became the venue for disseminating technological information. As support activities, 33 proposals were endorsed to DOST-Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI) under the Global Technology Search (GTS) program. The Farmer-Scientists Bureau (FSB) or Magsasaka-Siyentista and the Farmers' Information and Technology Service (FITS) or Tekno Pinoy were also introduced. As part of the Medium-Term Research and Development Plan (MTRDP): 1995-2000 translation into focused programs, Integrated R and D Programs (IRDPs) for mango, durian, coconut, ornamentals, cotton, potato and sweetpotato, furniture, and R and D framework for agricultural engineering were approved by the Governing Council (GC). Through the PCARRD - GIA, DOST-GIA, or foreign assistance, the Council supported and coordinated the implementation of new and on going projects covering crops, livestock, forestry, farming systems, socio-economics, environment, information systems, applied communication, and technology promotion. PCARRD continued to respond to crises in the agricultural sector. The Science Watch and Action Group (SWAG) for foot and mouth disease (FMD) conducted in Isabela with 80 farmers, livestock raises, municipal agricultural officers (MAOs), and mayors in Isabela as participants, as well as radio guestings in Cagayan. Also it continuously supports the study on disaster management, among Filipino cultural communities usually affected by calamities