SLSU-Hinunangan to Establish Tissue Culture Lab with DOST-8's Support

The Department of Science and Technology Regional Office No. VIII (DOST-8) has pledged its support for Southern Leyte State University-Hinunangan Campus (SLSU-Hinunangan) in establishing a state-of-the-art tissue culture laboratory. This development was discussed during the visit of DOST-8's Supervising Science Research Specialist, Dr. Ramil T. Uy, and the Southern Leyte PSTO's Officer-in-Charge, Emmanuel E. Lagdamen, on July 9, 2024.

The delegation was welcomed by SLSU officials, led by Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Dewoowoogen Baclayon, and SLSU-Hinunangan Campus Director, Mr. Wade C. Lim. The visit commenced with an audiovisual presentation that traced the rich history of the campus. It also showcased the campus's ambitious Land Use Development and Infrastructure Plan, emphasizing its potential as a future agritourism site.

Mr. Lim introduced the tissue culture laboratory initiative, highlighting its purpose in the micropropagation of high-yielding, disease-free varieties of abaca, banana, and coconut. This initiative aligns with SLSU-Hinunangan’s vision of becoming a hub for agricultural innovation and sustainability in the region.

"The establishment of this tissue culture laboratory is a significant step for SLSU-Hinunangan. It not only enhances our research capabilities but also supports the local agricultural community by providing disease-free planting materials," Mr. Lim stated.

DOST-8 expressed keen interest in collaborating with the university, particularly in providing additional laboratory equipment through its Grants-in-Aid program. This collaboration is expected to boost the university's capacity to produce high-quality planting materials, thereby contributing to the agricultural development of Southern Leyte.

The visit concluded with an onsite inspection of the proposed laboratory site, marking the beginning of what promises to be a fruitful partnership between DOST-8 and SLSU-Hinunangan. This initiative underscores the university's commitment to advancing agricultural research and development, positioning it as a critical player in the region's agritourism and agricultural sectors.