DA technology forum showcases agri-fishery research, innovation
BUTUAN
CITY -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga through its Research Division
successfully kicked off the 9th Regional Technology Forum (RTF) on May 30 at
the DA Regional Field Office 13.
The two-day event
highlighted the emerging agri-fishery research and cutting-edge technologies as
catalysts for agricultural competitiveness and sustainability. The forum
commenced with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting officially inaugurating the 9th RTF.
Regional Technical Director
for Research and Regulation Abel F. Wagas, in his opening message, emphasized
the significance of doing research in agriculture.
“For us to be outstanding
farmers, we should have records and numbers behind us because we can use this
as a foundation for technological advancements and research,” Wagas said.
Regional Technical Director
for Operations Rebecca R. Atega also stressed the importance of bridging the
gap between research and the field operations.
“The research and operation
must meet halfway, what has been created through research must be effectively
communicated to the grassroots level,” Atega said.
Lecture series covering
digital innovation and agricultural digital tools, various rice varieties, and
new trends and innovations in the coconut industry will be conducted throughout
the forum.
Invited farmers came from
the municipalities of Buenavista, R.T.R, Butuan City, and the province of
Dinagat Islands. The event was simultaneously conducted in the three research
stations of the region namely, Tagbina Research and Experiment Station in
Surigao del Sur; Del Monte Lowland Rainfed Research Station in Talacogon,
Agusan del Sur; and,Trento Research and Experiment Station in Trento, Agusan
del Sur.
The forum was also graced by
distinguished guests including DA-PhilRice Agusan Branch Director Gerardo F.
Estoy, Agricultural
Training Institute (ATI) Regional Training Center Caraga OIC Center Director Dr.
Jessie V. Beldia, Caraga State University Director for Research, Innovation,
and Extension Jeffrey Dellosa, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Caraga represented by
Anna Melissa Talavera, and Department of Science and Technology represented by
Christine J. Gonzaga.
Several booths from partner
agencies and Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita are also present to showcase its products,
technologies, information, education, and communication materials for the
farmer.
The Regional
Technology Forum served as a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation
showcase, and collaboration among farmers, researchers, and industry leaders.
(Kent Warren H. Fugoso, DA-13 RAFIS/PIA Caraga)