CALABARZON — The delegation of Palau officials completed a successful agricultural and fisheries study visit in the Philippines that aimed to identify strategies for improving Palau's agricultural and fisheries sectors.
The trip, spanning from March 30 to April 1, 2025 in CALABARZON, focused on key sectors including fisheries, livestock, and horticulture. The Palauan officials engaged in extensive site visits and briefings at leading institutions and certified Learning Sites for Agriculture (LSAs), observing established methods and technologies firsthand.
This immersive experience allowed them to directly assess the practicality and adaptability of various techniques. The itinerary included visits to the ATI International Training Center on Pig Husbandry (ITCPH), where they were welcomed by Center Director Dr. Ruth S. Miclat-Sonaco and received a comprehensive briefing on Philippine swine production.
Subsequent visits to BeeGood Agriventures, where they were greeted by Ms. Jessica Castillo, Farm Owner and Administrator; and Don Leon Nature Farm, with a warm welcome from Ms. Maricel Egera, Senior Staff, provided exposure to diverse agricultural commodities and sustainable farming practices.
Capping off the three-day visit is a tour at the Bureau of Animal Industry - National Swine and Poultry Research and Development Center (BAI-NSPRDC). Mr. Mat M. San Agustin, Supervising Agriculturist, welcomed the delegation where they learned about the agency's mandates and goals, engaging in a question-and-answer session while going around the facilities.
Prior to this, they visited the Sentrong Pamilihan ng Produktong Agrikultura in Sariaya, Quezon, where they observed how traders, farmers, and laborers, both local and from neighboring areas, generate livelihoods and income.
After their visit to Sariaya, the Palau officials proceeded to OLE Farm Well, a certified LSA in Padre Garcia, Batangas. At the farm, they were warmly welcomed by Ms. Antonieta J. Arceo, ATI Assistant Director; and the farm owner, Mr. Emmanuel Carlos R. Malibiran. The farm showcased permaculture along with various agricultural practices and technologies, including a demonstration of the farm’s product, “Happy Soil.”
By observing successful models in the Philippines, the Palauan officials sought to find solutions tailored to their own environmental and economic needs, leading to the development of sustainable and efficient agricultural practices in Palau. Staff from the DA-ATI CALABARZON provided assistance during their visit to the region.
News by: Adrian Averion
