To empower rural communities with innovative knowledge and tools, Ifugao State University’s Potia Campus launched Project Banac on December 3, 2024, in Sitio Banac, Potia, Alfonso Lista, Ifugao. This initiative features groundbreaking and community-responsive projects and training aimed at uplifting local residents.
Spearheaded by Program Leader Dr. Serafin L. Ngohayon, this initiative aligns with the University’s goals of fostering a strong research culture and promoting sustainable extension and community engagement. Funded by the Department of Budget and Management and the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, the project is a response to the needs of communities post-COVID-19.
“Lahat [naman] ng ginagawa natin sa IFSU lalo na sa area ng research ay para tumuklas ng teknolohiya para pwede nating ibahagi sa mga farmers na siyang mag-improve, magpaganda sa kanlang ani, magpalaki ng kanilang kita [kaya sila] kung i-adopt nila yung technology na dine-develop natin dito, sila yung direct beneficiaries,” he stressed.
The event kicked off with a Thanksgiving Mass, followed by the blessing of the IFSU Research and Development Center Main Gate, Fruits and Vegetable Trading Center, Product Development and Business Incubation, and Agritourism Office, and other infrastructure.
A diverse group of attendees, including farmers, technology adopters, government officials from various agencies, LGU representatives, and students, participated in a site tour to explore the different project components sprawled in an almost 19-hectare lot:
– Off-Season Mango-Pomelo Production: This project aims to introduce innovative techniques like pruning, fertilization, and flower induction to maximize fruit production, reduce costs, and enhance farmer livelihoods.
– Integrated and SMART Vegetable Farming: By incorporating smart farming practices, this project promotes sustainable and eco-friendly methods to produce safe and nutritious food.
% Native Chicken (Free-range) Production: This component focuses on innovative housing designs, fireless brooding techniques, and antibiotic-free nutrition to improve chicken production efficiency and quality.
– Aquaculture Production: This project aims to enhance aquaculture systems and infrastructure, introduce advanced technologies, and provide sustainable feeding solutions.
– Bamboo Industry Development: This initiative seeks to conserve the environment, mitigate climate change, and provide sustainable livelihoods through bamboo cultivation and product development.
– Agritourism and Product Development: This project aims to generate additional income for farmers through direct marketing, promote rural tourism, and preserve cultural heritage.
– Product Development and Business Incubation: This component aims to help farmers add value to their produce through processing and marketing, reducing post-harvest losses and increasing income.
Meanwhile, the Cacao and Coffee Production and Industry Development which is another project component is based in Lamut, Ifugao. It focuses on improving cacao and coffee production techniques to enhance quality and market value.
A team of experts, each with specific expertise, oversees these projects.
The program concluded with a breakout session between farmers and speakers, discussing strategies that could help the agriculture sector yield better crops and agriculture productivity.
The officials and representatives of Alfonso Lista, Aguinaldo, and Mayoyao LGUs and the DTI expressed their full support for Project BANAC, recognizing its potential to uplift rural communities and drive agricultural development.**Faith B. Napudo
