SLSU Hinunangan unveils BIO-GROWTH Tissue Culture Laboratory, DOST Secretary Solidum backs science-driven agriculture in Southern Leyte

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) – Hinunangan Campus formally marked a major milestone in agricultural research and innovation with the successful and official launch of the SLSU BIO-GROWTH Tissue Culture Laboratory on Thursday, January 22.

The campus bustled with activity as high-ranking national and local officials, researchers, farmers, and stakeholders gathered to witness the inauguration of a facility envisioned to strengthen the province’s abaca industry and support modern, science-driven agriculture. Leading the distinguished guests were Renato U. Solidum Jr., Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST); Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations; John Glenn D. Ocana, Regional Director of DOST Region VIII; Christopherson M. Yap, Representative of the 2nd District of Southern Leyte; and Ymard Joseph T. Tocmo, Municipal Mayor of Hinunangan.

University officials were led by Francis Ann Sy, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (VPRIES); Ian A. Navarrete, Campus Director of SLSU-Hinunangan; and John Paul R. Gapasin, Faculty Dean and Project Leader of the Tissue Culture Laboratory.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Sy warmly welcomed the participants and guests, setting a cordial and forward-looking tone for the program. She emphasized SLSU’s commitment to translating research into concrete solutions that directly benefit local communities, particularly farmers and agri-based enterprises.

Dr. Navarrete followed with a message of gratitude, underscoring the importance of the partnership between SLSU and DOST. He noted that the establishment of the tissue culture laboratory would significantly help abaca farmers and other agricultural stakeholders in Southern Leyte. “We are deeply thankful to DOST for believing in the potential of this campus and our farmers. This facility is a testament that science, when brought closer to the people, can truly transform livelihoods,” he said, adding that the presence of DOST’s top officials was a strong affirmation of shared goals for regional development.

An audio-visual presentation then provided a comprehensive overview of the project, highlighting the joint efforts of SLSU and DOST to revive the abaca industry, empower farmers through access to quality planting materials, and promote a sustainable agricultural future through the establishment of the BIO-GROWTH Tissue Culture Laboratory in Southern Leyte.

Messages of support followed from local leaders. Mayor Tocmo expressed the full backing of the local government, noting that the project would “strengthen Hinunangan’s agricultural backbone and open more opportunities for our farmers.” Southern Leyte Board Member and Chair of the Committee on Science and Technology, Rolito D. Manalo, echoed this support, stressing the importance of science-based interventions in improving farm productivity and resilience. Congressman Yap, meanwhile, affirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that integrate research, innovation, and farmer welfare, describing the laboratory as a “timely investment in the future of agriculture in the province.”

One of the most moving moments of the program came from the farmers themselves. Representing local stakeholders, Augustin Humang-it of Barangay Catublian, Hinunangan, delivered a heartfelt testimonial on behalf of abaca farmers. He shared how access to disease-free and high-quality planting materials through tissue culture could address long-standing production challenges. His message underscored the real-world impact of the project on farming families across the province.

Undersecretary Mabborang, in his message of support, emphasized DOST’s mandate to ensure that science and technology investments reach the grassroots. He noted that facilities like the BIO-GROWTH Tissue Culture Laboratory demonstrate how regional innovation ecosystems can be strengthened through close collaboration with state universities.

Secretary Solidum capped the program with an inspiring address, reflecting on his visits to Southern Leyte over the years. “This is not my first time in Southern Leyte, and what I see today is progress — from infrastructure to institutions. One thing that has remained strong is agriculture, which continues to thrive and flourish,” he said. He highlighted tissue culture technology as a powerful tool in addressing farmers’ problems, not only in abaca but also in other priority commodities. “With science guiding production, we give our farmers better options, higher productivity, and greater resilience for the future,” he added.

The program concluded with a brief closing message from Director Ocana, who reiterated DOST Region VIII’s continuing support for SLSU’s research and innovation initiatives.

Following the formal program, the ceremonial launching and ribbon-cutting of the SLSU BIO-GROWTH Tissue Culture Laboratory took place, led by Secretary Solidum, Mayor Tocmo, and Congressman Yap. A guided tour of the facility followed, allowing guests to view the laboratory’s equipment and operational areas firsthand.

The DOST officials later departed for SLSU’s main campus in Sogod for another facility launch, as part of the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Engagement of the DOST Secretary in Southern Leyte scheduled from January 22 to 23, 2026.

The establishment of the BIO-GROWTH Tissue Culture Laboratory reinforces SLSU’s mission to advance research-based solutions, strengthen extension services, and contribute to inclusive and sustainable development. It aligns with the university’s vision of being a leading science- and innovation-driven institution while supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) — ensuring that science truly works for farmers, communities, and the future of Southern Leyte.