The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has granted P1 million in research and development (R&D) grant to Xavier University–Ateneo de Cagayan to fund the implementation of a research project on the formulation of microbial cocktails from indigenous microorganisms (IMOs).
DOST Secretary Fortunato “Boy” T. de la Peña said DOST-X through the Northern Mindanao Consortium for Health Research and Development (NorMinCoHRD) awarded the R&D grant to the university.
“The funding is allocated for the research project on the formulation of microbial cocktails from indigenous microorganisms (IMOs) as alternative to conventional pesticides and as biodegradation-enhancers for compostable wastes,” he said during his weekly report on Friday, Oct. 29.
The study seeks to look into use of microbial cocktails from IMOs as an alternative to conventional pesticides for house flies and crop pathogens.
“The agency provided capacity building activities to help the researchers in developing an outcome- and impact-oriented research project,” de la Peña said.
The project team is expected to study the formulated microbial cocktails for their characteristics as biodegradation-enhancers for compostable wastes.
The DOST said the research project aims to promote sustainable and environment-friendly alternatives to traditional practices utilizing chemical agents.
"It will also provide evidence in controlled laboratory conditions to support the practice of the usage of IMOs. The use of IMOs will provide sustainable, cost-effective, and natural alternatives for farmers,” it added.