SLSU-Hinunangan Hosts Groundbreaking SAER-8 Conference, Champions Agricultural Education and Innovation
Southern Leyte State University – Hinunangan campus proudly hosted the 4th Regional Scientific Education Conference of the Society of Agricultural Educators in Region 8 (SAER-8), a significant event held on July 25-26, 2024, at the Multi-Purpose Academic Building (MAB).
This two-day conference, dedicated to the future of agricultural education, gathered educators, researchers, and stakeholders from across Eastern Visayas region.
The event was inaugurated by Dr. Maria Jenah P. Libre, Chancellor of Visayas State University-Villaba and President of SAER-8, who delivered a compelling statement of purpose, highlighting the importance of the gathering in cultivating educational excellence.
This was followed by a warm welcome address from Dr. Jude A. Duarte, University President of SLSU, emphasizing the university’s commitment to advancing agricultural education and research.
The conference centered on the theme, "Pursuing an Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) Among Technical Vocational Institutions in Eastern Visayas." This theme underscores the necessity to enhance agricultural practices and elevate the competence of educators through a robust curriculum and stringent accreditation processes. The conference aimed to recognize and accredit institutions that have met rigorous standards, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement in agricultural education.
Day 1: Inaugural Sessions, Plenary Talks, and Tours
On the first day, July 25, the opening program welcomed various attendees from the region, featuring plenary talks focused on ETEEAP. Esteemed speakers included Prof. April Stephany Enconado, ETEAEP-UEP Director; Dr. Jennifer A. Gorumba, PIT Dean; and Dr. Lolito Bestil, Retired Professor of VSU. Their presentations provided invaluable insights into the ETEEAP initiative, emphasizing its role in bridging vocational and formal academic education.
Following the formal program, participants, supported by the staff and faculty of Hinunangan, toured the scenic Hinunangan tourist spots, including the Calag-itan Fish Sanctuary and Tahusan Beach. This tour allowed the attendees to appreciate the natural beauty of the region while promoting camaraderie and relaxation after the intensive sessions.
Day 2: Sessions on Agricultural Practices and Research
The second day of the conference, July 26, 2024, featured the presentation of the ETEEAP Assessment by Maria Isabel V. Lagrimas, setting the stage for a day divided into two insightful sessions.
Session 1: SUC-Based Agriculture Practices
Moderated by Dr. John Paul R. Gapasin, SLSU-HC Campus Dean and SLSU representative for SAER-8, along with Prof. Ma. Emma Suzette M. Pernites, this session showcased a variety of research studies from different universities. Highlights included:
* "Performance of Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Growth with Fulvic Acid under Soilless Production" by Ronamie E. Puliran, Samantha B. Burlaza, Riza Mae Andrea S. Cadayona, and Dr. John Paul R. Gapasin from SLSU-HC.
* "Assessing the Effectiveness of Betel Nut 'Bunga' (Areca catechu) as Botanical Dewormer Treatment for Native Chickens (Gallus gallus)" by Dawn Erica Pogoy, Mel Ann Del Pilar, Pamela Edeza, Czrina Thessa Elevera, and Emma Suzette M. Pernites from SLSU Hinunangan.
* "Growth and Yield Performance of Different Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum Mill) Lines under VSU Conditions" by Gloria E. Bancale and Nelita C. Bornías from VSU Baybay.
* "Preliminary Study on the Production of Bulb Onion Under Organic Management Scheme in Calcareous Soil in Villaba, Leyte, Philippines" by Nicolasa N. Florentino, Maria Jehan P. Libre, and Marvin Remorta from VSU Villaba.
* "Liquid Nutrient Formulations for Celery (Apium graveolens L.) and Spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) in Hydroponics" by Felix M. Salas and Rosario A. Salas from VSU Baybay.
* "Exploratory Production of Garlic Under Organic Management Scheme in Calcareous Soil in Villaba, Leyte, Philippines" by Nicolasa N. Florentino and Marvin Remorta.
Session 2: Farmer-Based Agriculture Practices
Moderated by Dr. Felix M. Salas, Faculty at VSU Baybay City, this session featured presentations focusing on practical agricultural knowledge and practices from local farmers and institutions. Key presentations included:
* "Wangkilik: Survival Skills for Emergency Income from Coconut" by Sharon Singzon from ESSU Borongan.
* "Farmers' Local Knowledge and Practices on Soil Conservation in Southern Leyte, Philippines" by Mr. Ian Navarrete from SLSU Hinunangan.
* "Postharvest Handling Knowledge and Practices of Rice Farmers in Central and Northern Part of Eastern Samar" by Ricelle L. Asilo, Rina C. Alde, and Jessalyn T. Lunario from ESSU Borongan.
* "On-farm Performance of Grower Goats Supplemented with Minerals in Block and Mineral-fortified Concentrate Mix Forms" by Ryan L. Paquibo, Jessica A. Duallo, and Lolito C. Bestil from VSU Baybay.
* "Comparative Assessment of Aboveground Carbon Stocks of Natural and Planted Mangroves in Bontoc and Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte" by April Joy T. Tolentino, Clarence Janmes Cosares, and Ian A. Navarrete.
* "LSA Collaboration in Improving Farmers' Crop Production through TESDA Programs" by Vilsasar R. Coliao, Owner of COLLIMARGO Integrated Farm in Hinunangan
The diverse range of studies and expert insights shared during these sessions provided participants with valuable knowledge and practical applications, reinforcing the importance of continuous learning and collaboration in advancing agricultural practices.
In conclusion, the 4th Regional Scientific Education Conference of SAER-8, hosted by Southern Leyte State University – Hinunangan, was a resounding success. It underscored the importance of elevating agricultural education through accreditation and innovation, paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable future for agriculture in Eastern Visayas.
As the region continues to face evolving challenges, such events are crucial in ensuring that educators and institutions are well-equipped to meet these demands, driving progress and excellence in the field of agriculture.
