SLSU Agriculture Students Compete in Regional Quiz Bee, Showcase Organic Farming Prowess
Agriculture students from Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) showcased their expertise in organic farming as they represented the university at the Third Regional Kabataang OA (Organic Agriculture) Quiz Bee 2024, held on November 4 at the Regional Training Center 8 (ATI-RTC8) in Visayas State University, Baybay City.
SLSU was represented by Mr. Aldrin Abrea and Mr. Joriz Xandre Ladores both from SLSU-Hinunangan Campus, with Ms. Judea Loui Marfil joining from Bontoc Campus. Under the mentorship of Ms. Ana Mae Aquino and Ms. Christselda Membreve from the Department of Agriculture and Technology, the team demonstrated a strong command of organic agriculture principles, competing against students
from various colleges and universities across the region.
Despite fierce competition, Mr. Abrea secured 4th place, adding to SLSU’s growing reputation for academic excellence and commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.
The quiz bee coincided with the nationwide celebration of Organic Agriculture Month, as established under Presidential Proclamation No. 1030, s. 2015. This observance underscores the importance of promoting the industrialization and full employment of Filipinos through sound agricultural development while advocating for the widespread adoption of organic farming practices.
As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting agricultural education and skills development, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center 8 has conducted numerous initiatives, including training sessions, seminars, and technical briefings tailored for both farmers and young agricultural enthusiasts. Launched in 2019, the “Search for Kabataang OA” aimed to encourage youth
participation and culminated in a notable third-place victory at the national level. The competition took a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, resuming last year with renewed vigor and the goal of preparing students to represent Region 8 on the national stage.
Centered around the theme “Kabuhayang OA, Kinabukasang OK! PGS Pinalakas para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the 2024 competition emphasized the integration of Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) in bolstering the country’s organic agriculture framework. This aligns with SLSU’s institutional mission of nurturing globally competitive individuals committed to sustainable development and aligns with the university’s dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on responsible consumption and production (SDG 12) and zero hunger (SDG 2).
By participating in events like the Regional Kabataang OA Quiz Bee, SLSU continues to reinforce its commitment to producing future-ready graduates who contribute to the enhancement of local and
national agricultural sustainability.
