Tagbilaran City, Bohol”•The Central Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium held a two-day Farmers and Industry Encounter through Science and Technology Agenda featuring seaweed.
The event aims to showcase research and technologies developed by the consortium members in the fields of agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources.
Dr. Edwin Villar, Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Executive Director for Research and Development, led on Wednesday the opening program of the event.
It included forums on seaweed production, technology, and business matching, Region 7 products exhibit, and seaweed pickle making contest to be held at the multi-purpose hall of Reyna’s Haven and Gardens here
Seaweed Industry Association of the Philppines Director Ronald Simbajon, the keynote speaker, said: “Seaweed has ready market local and international. We have to expand seaweed farming.”
“There must be collaboration between the seaweed researches of the government agencies and the industry,” he added.
Simbajon said Philippines used to be top producer of seaweed worldwide but was edged by Indonesia in 2008.
In his message, Villar said seaweed production has great potential in improving the lives of farmers in the region.
“PCAARRD takes pride in partnering with CVAARRDEC and its collaborators in their effort to develop and promote technologies and innovations on seaweed production,” he said.
“We will support the consortium in all its activities”, the doctor added.
PCAARRD has provided funding for the researches of the consortium members.
Officials said Central Visayas produced varieties of seaweed, and that seaweed farming offers a great opportunity to local entrepreneurs.
A representative of Gov. Edgar Chatto also delivered a message in the opening program.
PCAARRD Applied Communication Division Director Marita Carlos and other officers of the council also attended the event.
Bohol Island State University President and CVAARRDEC President Dr. Regucivilla A. Pobar warmly welcomed participants that included seaweed growers, members of consortium, farmers, and agri-entrepreneurs.