CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga—Twenty-two cutting-edge technologies poised to revolutionize the Philippine agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sectors were introduced in the 2024 Agri-Aqua Pitch Fest at the Royce Hotel here on August 16, 2024..
The 22 technologies, grouped into four categories—Agri-Aqua Inputs and Products, Food Products, Agricultural/Aquatic Equipment and Machinery, and Other Agri-Aqua Technologies—underscore the critical role of innovation in advancing the AANR sectors. These innovations range from eco-friendly biopesticides and sustainable fertilizers to high-tech aquaculture equipment and nutritious food products designed to meet the evolving demands of consumers and producers alike.
One of the highlights in the Agri-Aqua Inputs and Products category was a biopesticide developed by the Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT). Derived from the Boton seed of the fish poison tree (Barringtonia asiatica), this biopesticide offers an environmentally safe alternative to chemical pesticides, ideal for use in rice paddies and vegetable gardens. Complementing this was a nightsoil fertilizer from Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), which utilizes human waste, molasses, and carbonized rice hulls to create a cost-effective and sustainable fertilizer, significantly reducing farmers' reliance on expensive chemical inputs.
PIONEERING SUSTAINABLE FOOD PRODUCTS
The Food Products category featured innovations aimed at improving nutrition and food security. Among them was the smoked pork granules from Benguet State University (BSU), made from the native pig breed of the Cordillera region. This product, with its unique flavor and extended shelf life, is expected to gain traction in both local and international markets. Central Luzon State University (CLSU) introduced Mush Aroy Nutrichips, a nutritious snack made from mushrooms, seaweeds, and malunggay, designed to bolster the nutritional content of disaster relief packages and feeding programs.
MECHANIZING AGRICULTURE
Innovations in the Agricultural/Aquatic Equipment and Machinery category emphasized the importance of mechanization in enhancing efficiency and productivity. Noteworthy was the Pili Postharvest Machines from Bicol University (BU), which automate the processing of Pili nuts, a high-value crop in the Bicol Region. Additionally, the Self-Navigating Solar-Powered Aerator for Aquaculture from Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) exemplifies the potential of renewable energy in aquaculture, utilizing solar power to maintain optimal oxygen levels in fish ponds, thereby improving fish health and reducing environmental impact.
PROMOTING HEALTH AND SUSTAINABILITY
In the Other Agri-Aqua Technologies category, the Portable Spectrophotometer developed by the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI) stood out for its ability to monitor bacterial load in water samples, offering a cost-effective solution for ensuring water quality in aquaculture systems. The Pagbangon Tea project from Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) introduced a healthy beverage made from mangosteen, pandan, and lemongrass, catering to the growing demand for functional beverages that promote health and wellness.
RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE
The event also celebrated excellence through competitions for the Best Pitch and Best Poster. Caraga State University (CSU) took first place in the Best Pitch category with their Sago Pith Extracting process, which enhances the efficiency of extracting sago starch from palm trees. Bohol Island State University (BISU) earned second place with their Cogon Leather project, a sustainable alternative to traditional leather, while Bicol University (BU) secured third place with their Pili Postharvest Machines.
In the Best Poster competition, BISU's Bioleather project took top honors for its comprehensive presentation, followed by the Philippine Carabao Center's Buro Booster, and Pampanga State Agricultural University's Mightibig project, a natural meat tenderizer made from Tibig leaf extract.
The Agri-Aqua Innovation Pitch Fest highlighted the power of science and technology in transforming the the agriculture and aquatic sectors.
DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum encouraged the participants to "Change the future, one innovative pitch at a time." He said the DOST continues to deliver on its mandate to promote innovation in all aspects of life, especially agriculture. "We want science to work for the farmers and for the common Filipino people," he said.
With nearly 500 participants and thousands of online viewers, the event highlighted the growing enthusiasm and interest in these innovations, which hold the potential to secure the future of Philippine agriculture amidst the challenges of climate change, population growth, and global competition.
Hosted by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), in collaboration with the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) and the Association of PAQE Professionals (APP), the event showcased a wide array of advancements that promise to address critical challenges in the sector, boost sustainability, and enhance food security in the nation.