August-September 2014

VOLUME XXXIVIssue 7

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2014Serving Los Baños and nearby communitieswww.lbtimes.ph

Putho-Tuntungin, Bagong Silang showcase organic produce at SyenSaya 2014

SyenSaya 2014 showcases innovations in support of global challenges

by Charlene Ruth Espenilla

Continued on page 5

Itutuloy sa pahina 3

With the theme “Los Baños Science Community: Supporting the Nation in Meeting Global Challenges”, SyenSaya 2014 was held on September 10-12 at the EB Copeland Gymnasium of the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB).

Organized by the Los Baños Science Community Foundation, Inc. (LBSCFI), the celebrations included a science exhibit, a technology forum, and a research and development (R&D) awarding ceremony.

LBSCFI member organizations and agencies showcased their latest innovations in an exhibit. Some of these are featured in this issue:

AMDP’s smart incubator by Remsce Pasahol

The Agricultural Mechanization Development Program’s (AMDP) egg incubator is made from locally available materials. A styrofoam ice chest serves as the chamber of the incubator while an incandescent bulb serves as source of light and heat.

Libre!

Ellen Ramos of the Gender and Development Office assists partner farmers in selling their organic produce to visitors during this year’s SyenSaya. The sales were turned over to the organic farmers of Barangays Bagong Silang and Putho-Tuntungin at the end of the three-day mini organic market. (Photo by CREspenilla)

nina Jeanette Ilagan-Talag at Lenie Bonapos ng Los Baños Federation of Persons with Disabilities, Inc.

Ipinagdiwang ng Los Baños Federation of Persons with Disabilities (LBFPWD), Inc. ang National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week (NDPR) na may temang “Talento at Paninindigan, Pasaporte sa Kaunlaran” mula ika-4 hanggang ika-8 ng Agosto.

Layunin ng isang linggong pagdiriwang na maipamalas ang kapasidad at kakayanan ng mga mamamayan ng Los Baños na may kapansanan sa pamamagitan ng iba’t-ibang gawain. Ito ay upang maipakita din na sila ay mahalagang parte ng lipunan at may pantay na karapatan. Layon din ng gawain na maitaas ang morale ng mga may kapansanan.

Organic farmer collaborators from Barangays Putho-Tuntungin and Bagong Silang grossed about PhP 14,000 during the three-day SyenSaya 2014 Wonderama held at the EB Copeland Museum from September 10-12.

The organic produce sold during SyenSaya included gabi (yam), kangkong (swamp cabbage), luya (ginger), okra (lady fingers), sitaw (string beans), and talbos ng kamote (camote tops) from farmers who partnered with the Local Government of Los Baños through the Gender and Development (GAD) Office and the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD).

Barangays Bagong Silang and Putho-Tuntungin were two among the six barangays involved in the organic farming project, which

LBFPWDs, ipinagdiwang ang Nat’l Disability Prevention & Rehabilitation Week

is part of the PhP 4.6 million project entitled “Enhancing Gender-Sensitive Sustainable Agriculture and Aquatic Science and Technology (S&T)-based Livelihood Enterprises in Los Baños” between PCAARRD and Los Baños that was formalized in March earlier this year.

Six months after the partnership was inked, the organic farming project has now established farmer collaborators in the six targeted barangays. The Los Baños LGU plans to organize an organic market in the new municipal hall as well as partner with local restaurants and food establishments to form an initial market for the barangays’ organic produce.

2 LOS BAÑOS TIMES

Putho-Tuntungin naglunsad ng proyektong vegetable container gardening para sa 4Psni Ricarda Villar

Namahagi ng mga binhi ng pipino, sitaw, at kalabasa sa kanilang barangay covered court ang Brgy. Putho-Tuntungin sa mga miyembro ng Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) noong ika-13 ng Setyembre.

Ang pamamahagi ng binhi ng gulay ay panimula ng proyektong vegetable container gardening na pinangungunahan ni Kapitan Ronaldo Oñate at Konsehal Rhodora Lagman ng komite ng agrikultura ng Brgy. Putho-Tuntungin.

Ang mga binhing ipinamahagi ay mula sa PAMANA Center at sa Institute of Plant Breeding ng UP Los Baños. Paliwanag ni Konsehal Lagman, ang pamamahagi ng binhi or seed dispersal ay matagal at regular nang isinasagawa ng Brgy. Putho-Tuntungin upang matulungan ang mga residenteng magkaroon ng karagdagang mapagkukuhanan ng pagkain.

Ani Kapitan Oñate, ang proyektong vegetable container gardening ay nabuo matapos maobserbahan na walang mapagkuhanan ng supply ng gulay ang mga residente matapos masira ng Bagyong Glenda ang mga taniman ng gulay sa bahay-bahay. Sa vegetable container gardening, maitatago pansamantala ang mga pananim upang hindi ito maapektuhan ng sama ng panahon at maaring mailabas muli pagkalipas ng bagyo.

E D I T O R I A L S TA F FRicarda Villar Editor-in-ChiefJoyce Marie Maloles Associate EditorRicarda VillarLayout Artist

Rosa Pilipinas F. FranciscoAdviser

The Los Baños Times is produced by the students and staff of the Department of Development Journalism

at the UP Los Baños College of Development Communication. No part of this paper may be

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The Los Baños Times is located at Rm. 201 B, Department of Development Journalism,

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Tel. No.: (049) 536-2511 local 401 or 410Email: [email protected]

Website: http://lbtimes.ph

NEWS

Maliban dito, makakatulong ang vegetable container gardening na magkaroon ng regular na mapagkukunan ng pagkain ang kanilang mga kabarangay. Kasali sa proyekto ang lahat ng miyembro ng 4Ps sa Brgy. Putho-Tuntungin.

AAlcantara ■ BEApa-ap ■ LBonapos ■ MCaringal ■ KSGCatapang ■ ACenizal ■ JMDrece ■ JDumalaon ■ CREspenilla ■ ALHerbon ■ DLagman ■ JLanuzga ■ YYLasic ■ CAMendizabal ■ EMMendoza ■ NAMercado ■ FMontemayor ■ JPOmac ■ SPOrendain ■ VOracion ■ EPasahol ■ TMQuilnat ■ DRecto ■ CRieza ■ KSalamatin ■ JTalag ■ KATolentino ■ PJTriñanes ■ MEValiente ■ TKVivaresWriters

Para sa mga nais makipagtulungan sa proyektong vegetable container gardening sa pamamagitan ng pagbibigay ng mga binhi o mga plastik na botelya o lalagyan (1, 1.5, at 2 litro), maaaring makipag-ugnayan sa Tanggapan ng Brgy. Putho-Tuntungin sa numerong (049) 536-4546.

Pinangunahan ni Kapitan Ronaldo Oñate at Konsehal Rhodora Lagman ang pamamahagi ng binhi ng gulay sa mga miyembro ng 4Ps sa kanilang barangay. Isang linggo matapos ang pamamahagi ng binhi, bibisitahin ng barangay ang mga kabahayan upang masigurong patuloy na nakikibahagi sa proyekto ang mga miyembro ng 4Ps.

Forum sa mga may kapansanan at social welfare, idinaosni Jeanette Talag, presidente ng Los Baños Federation of Persons with Disabilities, Inc.

Isinagawa ang isang forum sa hanay ng mga may kapansanan at mga opisina ng provincial/city/municipal social welfare and development noong ika-23 ng Setyembre sa Casa de Padrid sa Bay, Laguna. Layunin ng pulong na higit na mapaganda at mapaayos ang relasyon sa pagitan ng mga tanggapan at mga may kapansanan tungo sa isang independiyenteng disabled people’s organization (DPO).

Isa sa mga napag-usapan sa pulong ay ang pagkakaroon ng tanggapan o ang persons’ with disability affairs office para sa mga may kapansanan sa bawat munisipyo.

Ang naging kinatawan ng Los Baños ay sina Jeanette Talag, presidente ng Los Baños Federation of Persons With Disabilities, Inc. at Angie Silva, focal person ng Persons With Disabilities.

LB LGU, UPLB team up for envt’l summit 2014

The local government unit (LGU) of Los Baños and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) held an Environmental Summit 2014 on August 12at the Institute of Cooperatives and Bio-Enterprise Development (ICOPED) Auditorium.

The summit served as venue for starting a strong and sustained partnership between UPLB and the Los Baños LGU in the face of social and environmental challenges in the

by Antonio Alcantara of the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office

Continued on page 3

3LOS BAÑOS TIMES

Putho-Tuntungin naglunsad ng proyektong vegetable container gardening para sa 4Ps TAG nagsagawa ng dental mission sa Brgy. Bayogni Ricarda Villar

Nasa 100-150 na residente ng Brgy. Bayog ang nakibahagi sa dental mission na ginanap sa barangay hall noong ika-30 ng Agosto. Ang dental mission ay pang-anim sa serye ng proyektong “MataTAG na Ngipin” ng The Altruist Group (TAG) Los Baños sa pakikipagtulungan ng Philippine Dental Association-Laguna Chapter.

Ang TAG ay itinatag noong ika-16 ng Nobyembre 2012 sa Los Baños. Ang grupo ay binubuo ng mga propesyunal at mga volunteer na layong makatulong sa iba’t ibang komunidad sa Los Baños at kalapit na bayan. Ang naunang anim na MataTAG na Ngipin 7 dental mission ay ginanap sa iba’t ibang barangay ng Los Baños.

Sa darating na ika-9 ng Nobyembre, ang MataTAG na Ngipin 7 ay gaganapin sa San Antonio Barangay Hall ng Bay, Laguna. Ang dental mission ay isasagawa sa pakikipagtulungan ng Philippine Dental Association-Laguna Chapter ng Los Baños, Bay, and Calauan Dental Cub (LBBCDC) at sa pakikipag-ugnayan ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Bay, Laguna.

NEWS

CORRECTION: In the article about senior citizens in the July 2014 issue, the 5% discount was on prime commodities, not on farm commodities.

Nasa 7-10 na dentista ang naging bahagi ng pagbibigay ng libreng serbisyo tulad ng dental check up o konsultasyon at pagbubunot ng ngipin sa ginanap na MataTAG na Ngipin 6 sa Brgy. Bayog Barangay Hall. (Larawan mula sa The Altruist Group)

LBFPWDs, ipinagdiwang... Ang mga isinagawang akitibidades sa loob ng isang linggo ay ang mga

sumusunod:• Agosto 4 – Talakayan kasama si Arthur Letim (Region IV-A Head AKAP PINOY) tungkol sa ugnayan ng mga may kapansanan, mga kapitan ng barangay at ng iba’t-ibang social service committees gayundin ang tungkol sa tamang paggamit ng Internal Revenue Allotment.

• Agosto 5 – Pagdadala sa mga amputee patients sa University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center kung saan pito sa mga pasyente ang nasukatan para sa kanilang prosthetics.

• Agosto 6 – Pagdaraos ng “Talentadong PWDs” kung saan nagpamalas ng angking talento ang mga may kapansanan sa larangan ng pagkanta at pagsayaw.

• Agosto 8 – Pagdaraos ng sportsfest kung saan iba’t-ibang palaro ang sinalihan gaya ng wheelchair race, marathon, at swimming.

Ang pagsasagawa ng livelihood training partikular sa paggawa ng antibacterial soap na dapat ay isinagawa noong Agosto 7 ay nalipat sa ika-30 ng Agosto 2014.

Para sa impormasyon at katanungan patungkol sa LBFPWD, maaaring makipag-ugnayan kay Jeanette Ilagan-Talag, kasalukuyang pangulo, sa numerong 0936-347-1973. Maaari ding bumisita sa kanilang tanggapan sa PWD Office, Office of Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA) na nasa lumang munisipyo ng Los Baños at hanapin si Lorelie Liwanag (0915-584-8844).

Mula sa pahina 1

Cathay Pacific crew brings relief goods for Glenda victims by Florentino Montemayor Jr., councilor of Brgy. Batong Malake

It was neither the best time for camping or scouting nor it was a part of their regular flight destination, yet Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific (CX) crew members visited Sitio Jamboree in Brgy. Batong Malake on August 5 to distribute about 200 bags of relief goods for the victims of Typhoon Glenda.

Wearing shirts, jeans, and rubber shoes, the six crew members led by Ms. Aida Padua, president of the Philippine Cabin Crew for Charity, Inc. (PCCI), together with some of their family members, distributed the relief goods.

One of the crew members and resident of Brgy. Batong Malake, Ms. Nelda Roxas Camomot organized the project together with the Sangguniang Barangay of Batong Malake. The barangay, led by Chairman Janos Lapiz, helped in organizing the activity-- from purchasing of goods, repacking and on-site delivery of the relief bags worth about PhP 50,000.

The distribution activity was done efficiently without much funfare amidst the entangled fallen forest trees and against the background of some houses without roofs.

LB LGU, UPLB...Continued from page 2

Los Baños subwatershed and the Mt. Makiling landscape.The institutional collaboration aimed to:

1. level off the understanding of selected environmental issues among the stakeholders,

2. identify possible action research and development agenda, and3. draft the work plan for future LB-UPLB collaborations.

The summit discussions tackled the protection and conservation of Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve considering the sustainability of domestic water supply and water quality of the surface water with changing climate, solid waste and septage management, and disaster risk reduction and management.

4 LOS BAÑOS TIMES PHOTO NEWS

Nagtulong-tulong ang mga residente ng Purok 4 ng Brgy. Putho-Tuntungin noong Setyembre 21 upang linisin ang mga nakabarang basura sa ilat na dinulot ng Bagyong Glenda at Bagyong Mario. Ito ay upang masolusyunan ang pag-apaw ng tubig sa mga kabahayan ng mga residente ng purok. (Dory Lagman, kagawad ng Brgy. Putho-Tuntungin)

Dalawampu’t limang kinatawan mula sa iba’t ibang opisina ng munisipyo, konseho ng mga barangay, civil society organizations, at paaralan ang dumalo sa “Training on News Writing and Photojournalism” sa Kolehiyo ng Komunikasyong Pangkaunlaran sa Unibersidad ng Pilipinas Los Baños noong ika-8 ng Agosto.Kasama sa nakilahok sina Teodorico Jeramie Luzon, Patricia Mae Royena, Rosita Emergo, Andrea Alforja, Cherry Mae Linao, Hanna Marie Ligon, Rose Anne Tabanera, Kacelyn Alinea, Hazel Reberique, Avygael Timanil, Anne Bernadette Aspiras, Mika Joy Villanueva, at Mariedel Sarmiento ng Department of Education sa Los Baños Community National High School (LBCNHS); Ma. Emily Alforja at Leonida Meneses ng Kapisanan ng mga Samahan sa Malinta (KASAMA); Randolph Franz Tolentino, Aristeo Jesus Isla, at Jason Austria ng Los Baños Group (LBG); Konsehal Fredilino Parabuac ng Brgy. Timugan; Donato Catipon ng Malinta Railroad Site Neighborhood Association (MRRSNA); Francisco Carandang ng Barangay Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Management Council (BFARMC); Zenaida Escobin ng Office of Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA); at Hanna Erika Laviña ng Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO). (Kuha ni REstimado)

Ilang kababaihan ng Brgy. Putho-Tuntungin ang nabigyan ng oportunidad upang magkaroon ng karagdagang pagkakakitaan sa pamamagitan ng Elbi Soap for Livelihood Project. Ang proyektong ito ay sinimulan ng isang residente ng barangay na tumulong upang magkaroon ng puhunan ang proyekto. Bagama’t hindi pa gaanong kilala ang mga produkto, unti-unti na din itong kumikita. Para sa mga katanungan sa proyektong ito, maaaring makipag-ugnayan kay Dory Lagman sa numerong 0927-321-9671.

5LOS BAÑOS TIMESFEATURE

by Kabzeel Sheba Catapang, with reports from Kimberly Salamatin, Arron Lucius Herbon and Christian Rieza

A technology forum was held at the New College of Arts and Sciences auditorium of the University of the Philippines Los Baños on September 11 during the SyenSaya science festival for the benefit of barangay officials, municipal government staff, students, and other community stakeholders.

The activity aimed to disseminate information regarding calamities, as well as necessary preparations and response during calamities.

This year’s forum focused on calamity in light of the recent experience with typhoon Glenda that affected many parts of the country and caused heavy damage to properties, particularly in Los Baños.

Dr. Primo Garcia, chair of the Techno Forum Committee 2014, said that the forum is very timely because the affected people and communities find disaster preparedness relevant and necessary.

“Maraming naapektuhan noong Bagyong Glenda noong July, particularly sa UP Los Baños. Napapanahon po talaga ang topic natin at napag-isapan ng LBSCFI [(Los Baños Science Community Foundation Inc.) na] ipamahagi sa mas malawak na audience ang mga isyu at mga kaalaman ukol sa disaster risk management,” Dr. Garcia said.

Barangay officials were the primary audience of the techno forum because they are in the best position to effectively communicate information to their respective constituents.

“Mas madali kasi kapag barangay officials ang nakakaalam kasi pwede silang magkaroon ng sarili nilang seminars at maituro nila ang mga natutunan nila sa kanilang nasasakupan,” Dr. Garcia added.

The forum featured Ms. Bernadeth Lucillo, chief meteorological officer at the National Agromet Station of PAGASA-UPLB, who lectured on the hydrometeorological profile of Los Baños, Laguna.

The Philippine Disaster and Risk Reduction Management Act of 2010 was also discussed by Mr. Elvis Cruz, assistant regional director of the Office of Civil Defense of Region IV-A.

The talk emphasized the importance of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (NDRRM) plan in responding, recovering, and in the rehabilitation process concerning disasters and calamities.

“NDRRM is everybody’s concern. We can minimize disaster risk by becoming more responsible citizens even in our little own ways by getting involved in the NDRRM efforts of the government,” Cruz stressed.

To ensure that the eggs absorb the heat, a fan distributes the heated air while an egg turner tilts the eggs. An air vent is also installed to regulate the temperature and humidity or the amount of water vapor in the chamber.

What makes this invention a smart incubator is the automation system used in the machine called Arduino platform (Gizduino X derivative). This tool acts like the central processing unit of a computer to control the fan, light bulb, and egg turner based on the input and the environmental conditions, such as moisture and temperature. Since the incubator is no longer manually operated, it is more precise and accurate in maintaining a temperature range of 37o to 38o C, the desired temperature for better egg incubation.

AMDP is under UPLB’s College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology (CEAT).

BPI-LBNCRDC’s vermiculture, vermicomposting by Bea Elisha Apa-ap and Toni Krizia Vivares

The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI)-Los Baños National Crop Research and Development Center (LBNCRDC) introduced the African Night Crawler, known scientifically as Eudrilus eugeniae, to elementary and high school students who crowded the booth of BPI-LBNCRDC to see and touch the earthworms encased in a small glass as the exhibitors explained and gave out leaflets about vermiculture and vermicomposting.

Vermiculture is the cultivation of earthworms while vermicomposting is the production of quality organic fertilizer through vermiculture.

Eugenia Buctuanon of BPI explained that vermicompost is a first-class fertilizer because it gives the soil higher levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Vermicompost also enhances the growth of plants and prolongs plant life.

Buctuanon further explained that the technology of vermicomposting is environment friendly and can be adopted by families in their homes to eliminate a huge bulk of household biogdegradable wastes.

Techno Forum: Handa KNB sa oras ng kalamidad?

Finally, Mr. Martin Q. Imatong, Los Baños Disaster Risk Reduction and Management consultant, delivered a lecture on the possible disasters that could be experienced by the Los Baños community such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunami, and typhoons. Mr. Imatong discussed the precautionary measures that could be done by the community for disaster preparedness.

The forum was organized by LBSCFI in cooperation with its partner organizations namely: Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Laguna State Polytechnic University (LSPU), Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), UPLB Office of the Vice Chancellor for Administration (OVCA), UPLB Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (OVCAA), Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP)-Laguna, Department of Education (DepEd), and Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

The techno forum started several years ago to showcase technological advances to the people. It focuses on agriculture, water technology, and other innovations that benefit the local community.

SyenSaya 2014 showcases...Continued from page 1

Continued on page 6

6 LOS BAÑOS TIMES

Using the term “kaibigang bulate,” Melinda Mondoñedo, research assistant at BPI, encouraged the children to hold the African night crawler while telling them that farm wastes are still helpful when converted to farm by-products like animal feed and organic fertilizer.

A 10-year-old student screamed when she was asked to hold the earthworm, but with Mondoñedo’s encouragement, she enjoyed the feel of the animal on her hands.

Mondoñedo said, “Malamig [yung bulate], lalo na kapag gumagapang sa kamay kasi sa malamig din s’yang environment [lugar] nago-grow [nabubuhay]. Minsan kasi natatakot ang mga bata kapag nakikita pa lang nila. So pinapaliwanag natin na ito ay kaibigang bulate, na hindi naman sila masama, at ginamit ito para sa organic farming.”

The earthworms are used in vermicomposting. Mondoñedo explained that farm wastes are turned into organic fertilizers with the help of these earthworms. She added that based from results of their experiments, soil with vermicompost has more nutrients compared to soil that has been fertilized using organic materials.

Eggpplant, cabbage, cauliflower, tomato, onion, cucumber, sitao, and okra exhibit outstanding growth because of this so-called kaibigang bulate.

CINTERLABS’ 3D avatar-based virtual env’t prog by Angelica Cenizal

The Computational Interdisciplinary Research Labs (CINTERLabs)’ 3D avatar-based virtual environment can create a virtual UPLB campus, which can be used for campus tours. The application makes possible navigating through buildings, feeling the environment, and having a glimpse of the university.

It can also be used as a virtual classroom. Students can create their own avatar and, as long as they are connected to the website or to the same network of the application, they can see other avatars as if in a classroom set-up. They can also interact with one another through chat and voice, and do simple gestures such as raising their hands. The users are also allowed to upload files.

This project, however, is still in its beta phase. Not all buildings in the campus are ready for navigation yet, as the developers have only finished the buildings for the Main Library, Student Union, College of Arts and Sciences Annexes 1 & 2, Institute of Mathematical Sciences and Physical, and Institute of Biological Sciences. There is no definite date yet on when the program will go live.

CINTERLabs is under UPLB’s Institute of Computer Science (ICS).

SyenSayaANO’NG MASASABI MO SA SYENSAYA 2014 ?

“…this is bringing science to the students. Gusto nating makita nila yung practical applications ng science . If you keep on producing science research tapos hindi naman nagagamit ang results, it’s a wasted investment. But through this exhibit, gusto nating maipakita sa lahat na may practical applications ang science and that everybody should know it.”- Dr. Rex Cruz, UPLB Chancellor

mula sa mga panayam nina Camille Ann Mendizabal, Emmanuelle Dominique Mendoza, Neil Arwin Mercado, Johanna Marie Drece, Joie Lanuzga, at Yunika Ysa Lasic

Ang pinaka-objective natin [ay] yung mga batang ito [ay] mag-take ng science and technology courses. Aim natin na mag-recruit ng best and brightest sa mga high schools na magiging scientists in the future kaya ini-invite natin lahat ng mga elementary at high school sa UPLB.”- Dr. Roberto Cereno, SyenSaya 2014 organizer

“[Nandito ako] para din makakuha ng bagong knowledge about sa science, para rin mag-enjoy, and bonding na rin kasama yung mga friends ko, schoolmates, para makakita ng makabagong bagay sa exhibit. Enjoy siya at yung mga nakikita namin dito marami kaming nalaman. Nakita namin yung iba’t-ibang bagay sa bawat lugar at kung ano’ng naitutulong nito.”-Abigail Venteza, Dayap National High School, Calauan

“Mas comprehensive ngayon at mas well [prepared] yung mga information materials nila at saka mas friendly siya sa mga tumitingin.”-Reymuel Salongkong, Brgy. Bambang

SyenSaya 2014 showcases...Continued from page 5

Continued on page 7

7LOS BAÑOS TIMES

SyenSayaANO’NG MASASABI MO SA SYENSAYA 2014 ?

2014mula sa mga panayam nina Camille Ann Mendizabal, Emmanuelle Dominique Mendoza, Neil Arwin Mercado, Johanna Marie Drece, Joie Lanuzga, at Yunika Ysa Lasic

“Masaya kasi nakikita mo yung interactions ng mga student from high school at elementary. Makikita mo kung gaano sila ka-curious sa mga technologies na meron tayong ipo-provide.”-Antoni Kristofer Lim, UP Open University student

“Yung mga interdisciplinary kasali na sa exhibit so mas maraming nagparticipate na exhibitor at mas maraming interactive na activities para sa mga bata.”-Engr. Marife Santiago, UPLB Agricultural Machinery Testing and Evaluation Center

“Nakikita ko yung impact nya sa mga bata. Mabuti yung bata palang sila, ipakita mo na yung mga pwede nilang gawin para pagtanda nila, mai-apply nila. Sa pamamagitan ng events na ganito, nagiging aware sila. Halimbawa dito sa booth namin, nalalaman nila na meron palang organic agriculture, meron pala tayong native pig at native chicken.”-Oliver John Gomez, owner of Makiling Hillside Delicacies

Nakakatuwang tingnan yung mga batang natututo dahil sa equipment na sinet-up namin. At tsaka natututo din naman kami sa booths ng iba.”-Matthew Frias, Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau

DOST Region IV-A’s ‘Project HaNDA’ by Kristina Aloida Tolentino

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region IV-A’s Project HaNDA is an information and communicaton technology (ICT)-based system that disseminates disaster-related information and weather bulletins to concerned government agencies in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon provinces.

Using a top-down approach, the system gives updates within minutes of notice. Concerned government agencies like PAGASA and Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) channel information to DOST Region IV-A from time to time. DOST then updates the website and notifies local units of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMOs) through SMS.

The website includes a map and provides visual representations of real-time situations on specific regions. It also includes weather bulletins and modules on dissemination, feedback, and public inquiry.

According to France Lagro, DOST project coordinator, there is a need for more funding, research, and acceptance of these disaster risk reduction and management programs since the country is constantly experiencing calamities. He added that these are useful tools to keep people informed and to minimize disaster impacts. The system was developed in 2010 and is accessible through this website drrm.region4a.dost.gov.ph.

IPB’s corn grits, organic seeds, hydroponics by Kabzeel Sheba Catapang, with reports from Therese Marie Quilnat

Corn grits or milled white corn is being promoted for mixing with or as an alternative to rice, according to Meg Grulla of the Institute of Plant Breeding (IPB). Compared with white rice, corn grits are healthier and a better source of protein. It is also more filling, making the consumers reach satiety faster, and relatively cheaper because a kilo of corn grits can be purchased for only PhP 30 at IPB.

IPB produces organic seeds, which have undergone open pollination, which is pollination by natural mechanisms, and were not cross-pollinated, to ensure the preservation of desirable characteristics and traits such as crop yield and quality of produce across generations. Carefully packed seeds of okra, cucumber, white squash (upo), squash, and other vegetable seeds were sold for PhP 40 per pack.

The simple nutrient addition program (SNAP) of IPB also known as hydroponics or soil-less farming entails transferring a week-old plant to the nutrient-enriched hydroponics set-up. Plants should be at least a week old to ensure germination and the nutrient-absorption capability of the roots.

The nutrient solution is made by mixing one cup each of SNAP A and SNAP B solution with 10 liters of water. The solution has been formulated to provide all the nutrients the plant needs for proper growth, even in the absence of soil. This way of farming is proving to be beneficial and ideal for urban locations where ample land area for planting is scarce.

Continued on page 8

Continued from page 6SyenSaya 2014 showcases...

8 LOS BAÑOS TIMES

PCAARRD’s Red Nile tilapia by Kristina Aloida Tolentino

The Red Nile tilapia, a crossbreed of Mozambique tilapia and Nile Tilapia, is known for its appealing red color. Originally imported from Singapore in 1978, it has been improved as an alternative to the locally available tilapia and to expensive marine species.

According to Willie Ibarra, science research specialist at the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), PCAARRD hopes to inform people about the emerging market by showcasing the Red Nile tilapia, a “Class A” breed of tilapia. The market for Red Nile tilapia was hampered by the common grey Nile tilapia, which is cheaper.

PCAARRD partnered with the National Tilapia Research and Development Program and Central Luzon State University-Freshwater Aquaculture Center (CLSU-FAC) on the project.

LWD’s water sampling analysis by Kabzeel Sheba Catapang with reports from Vhernadette Oracion and Stephanie Pearl Orendain

The Laguna Water District’s (LWD) water-testing process ensures the quality of tap water in Los Baños. The process was available for observation on the first day of the SyenSaya.

Alma Grace Velasquez, microbiologist of LWD, used three water samples to demonstrate the water testing process. Of the three samples, two tested positive for coliform and E. coli, which are common disease-causing bacteria. Among the diseases brought by these organisms is diarrhea.

The Colilert-18 Test is used to test water samples in Laguna. Colilert-18 reacts with the enzymes present in the two types of bacteria and will turn the water yellow if coliforms are present. However, for samples with E. coli, the water will turn blue if observed under the UV light.

“Hindi naman nagpa-positive sa coliforms at E. coli ang tubig dito [sa Laguna],” Velasquez assured. However, during outbreaks involving coliforms and E. coli, the LWD increases the dosage of the disinfectant chlorine dioxide as counter measure.

Throngs of high school students from various parts of CALABARZON lingered in various booths for their turn at trying out the samples, games, and activities prepared by the SyenSaya 2014 exhibitors. (Photo by CAMendizabal and NAMercado)

SyenSaya 2014 showcases...Continued from page 7

Continued on page 9

9LOS BAÑOS TIMES

COMMUNITY POSTS

Iskedyul ng koleksyon ng basura

MataTAG na Ngipin 7

Simula Setyembre 15, ang iskedyul sa paghahakot ng basura ng truck ng Mayondon at munisipyo ay:

• Nabubulok (Lunes, Miyekules, at Biyernes)

• Di nabubulok (Sabado) Ang basura ay dapat ilabas mula

8-9 pm. Ang paghahakot sa lahat ng nakatakdang araw ay tuwing 9 pm. (Matet Caringal)

Magsasagawa ng MataTAG na Ngipin 7

dental mission ang The Altruist Group (TAG) - Los

Baños sa ika- 9 ng Nobyembre sa San Antonio

Barangay Hall ng Bay, Laguna. Ang dental mission

ay isasagawa sa pakikipagtulungan ng Philippine

Dental Association-Laguna Chapter at ng Los

Baños, Bay, and Calauan Dental Cub (LBBCDC)

at sa pakikipag-ugnayan ng lokal na pamahalaan ng

Bay, Laguna. (Dory Recto)

Parol-Making Contest (December 1)

Open to all non-government organizations, civil society organizations

and private organizations within Los Baños, Laguna

Submission of entries for display in the Old Municipal Hall

Covered Court is on Nov. 30

For inquiries, contact 0927 995 9798/ 0920 501 6991

Pasko sa Barangay (December 1)

Barangay Hall Christmas Decoration Contest

For inquiries, contact the Municipal Tourism Office (MTO)

at (049) 530-2818 local 205

Hataw at Galaw Pasko (December 11, 7pm)

Dance contest open to all dance groups (Open category)

to be held at the Old Municipal Hall Compound

For inquiries, contact MTO at (049) 530-2818 local 205

Himig Pasko 2014 (December 13)

Old Municipal Compound

Deadline of entries is on Nov. 28

For inquiries, contact (049) 530-2818 local 305 or 306

UPOU promotes organic agri by Mary Edrielle Valiente

With the theme “Supporting Sustainable Agriculture and Natural Resources Management Through Open and Distance E-learning”, the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) showcased different organic products in its booth. Also featured were native chickens, pigs, organic feeds, and plants, which are some of the products of one of its students - OJ Gomez - in the non-formal course on organic agriculture. A chef by profession, Gomez said he wants to promote organic agriculture because of its health benefits. He also wants to develop a breed of native pigs that will be best for cooking lechon.

According to Gomez, he also wants to promote organic farming for the sake of fair practice.“Do you know what conventional farmers do? They mass produce plants grown with chemicals and sell it to the public. But they plant a small amount of vegetables organically, and that’s what they eat because they know it’s the healthier option. That’s not fair practice,” he said.

“With the traditional way of growing pigs, you depend on the income you earn to buy more and more feeds. But with organic farming, you can feed your pigs anytime because it requires you to plant the vegetables that your pigs will eat. These plants are self-sustaining,” he added.

Further, Gomez said that “organic farming enriches the soil because you use natural produce as fertilizers. Even the animal excretions become beneficial.”

He added that less than one percent of the farmers in the Philippines practice organic agriculture. That is why he is trying to promote it by participating in various science fairs, SyenSaya being one of them.

Los Baños Quadricentennial Celebration

Continued from page 8SyenSaya 2014 showcases...

10 LOS BAÑOS TIMES

“Para sa akin, ang bayani sa komunidad namin ay ang mga barangay tanod. Kasi ang barangay tanod ay 24 oras na nagtatrabaho at nagseserbisyo sa mga programa ng ating barangay.”-Cherry Walet, Brgy. San Antonio

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“Ang tunay na bayani ay ang mga nanay dahil sila ay naglilingkod sa mga anak at asawa na walang hinihingi na kapalit.”-Mayette Sinson, Brgy. San Antonio

“Yung tatay ng mga anak ko. Kasi siyempre, sa lahat ng problema namin, sa saya at hirap namin, naitataguyod at nabibigyang solusyon niya. Kahit na marami kaming anak ay nagagawan niya ng paraan yung mga problema namin sa araw-araw at napapag-aral pa niya yung walo naming anak.”-Tata L. Usman, Brgy. Batong Malake

“Ang mga manggagawa ang mga bayani dahil sila ang kumikilos para sa ekonomiya at nagbabayad ng buwis para sa pag-unlad ng ating bayan.”-Priscila Abdani Tamban, Brgy. Batong Malake

“Ang bayani para sakin… si tatay. Kasi buong buhay nya dinedicate niya para sa amin. Wala siyang ibang iniisip kundi yung ikabubuti namin at hindi siya nagsawa sa mga pangaral at pag-aaruga kahit na minsan medyo mahigpit siya sa’min.”-Aleli Legaspi, Brgy. San Antonio

“Para sakin mga teacher. Kasi kahit na mababa ang sahod nagtitiyaga sila para lang mabigyan ng kaalaman ang mga bata.”-Francis Raytana

“Wala ka naman kasing makikitang tao na matatawag mong bayani dito sa’tin. Hindi naman sa pagiging ‘nega’ pero iba-iba naman kasi tayo, bawat isa pwedeng maging bayani para sa sarili nila.”-DV Marie Maculado, Bay

“Ang mga bayani ay ang mga estudyante kasi buong loob nilang inilalagay ang sarili nila sa pag-aaral kahit na hindi naman lahat sila ay ginagawa ito kahit na hindi naman lahat nang natututunan sa paaralan ay nagagamit sa araw-araw.”-Michelle Delminguez, Brgy. Bayog

Sinu-sino ang mga bayani sa inyong komunidad?

Bilang paggunita ng Araw ng mga Bayani noong ika-25 ng Agosto, aming kinapanayam ang

mga taga-Los Baños para alamin kung sino ang mga itinuturing nilang bayani sa kani-kanilang barangay.

ANO’NG MASASABIMO? by John Paul Omac

Reviving the tree of life

Heralded as the “tree of life”, coconut and its by-products have been considered the lifeblood of Philippine agriculture, topping the list of Philippine agricultural products for export. However, the devastation brought about by coconut scale insects (CSI) or cocolisap has threatened the industry’s vitality.

Scientists are continuously developing innovations which can help revitalize the Philippine coconut industry, as highlighted by the exhibit of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) in the SyenSaya on September 10-12 at the EB Copeland Gymnasium at the University of the Philippines Los Baños.

The exhibit presented the Industry Strategic S &T Plan (ISP) for coconuts, which hopes to address the major issues and concerns of the coconut industry through the use of S & T innovations.

According to Ervin Naval, science research analyst of PCAARRD, the aim of the ISP for coconuts is to increase palm production and reduce losses due to pest.

“This will lead to the increase not just of the farmers’ income but the whole industry as well,” Naval added.

Currently, the coconut palm covers most of the landscape in the country’s 68 out of 79 provinces, with more than 3.4 million farmers directly relying on it.

However, the national average yield is 46 nuts/tree a year – way below the global benchmark of 120/nuts a year.

The dwindling productivity of coconuts, among other factors, ultimately makes coconut farmers one of the most vulnerable in the agricultural sector.

About 96% of coconut farmers are considered non-bankable by corporate banking sector, preventing them from borrowing capital they can use to improve their farms.

As part of the Coconut ISP for 2013-2015, genomics- the sequencing and rearranging of DNA- will be primarily employed to improve desired traits such as high nut yield, high oil yield, pest resistance, and drought resistance.

By 2015, they aim to increase the yield of coconuts from 46/nuts a year to 100/nuts a year.

Naval also said that if plans materialize by 2015, they would have reduced yield losses by up to 13.8 million nuts.

“The reduced yield losses and other innovations to develop high value products like cocosap, cocosugar, and others would lead to a 44% increase in income of the farmers,” he added.

Aside from coconut, PCAARRD also showcased their innovations for banana, mango, and tilapia. In the end, they envisioned the Philippine agri-fisheries industry to be “smarter and more sustainable” through scientific innovations.

PCAARRD bares plan for coco industry revitalization

11LOS BAÑOS TIMESOPINION

Saan at paano nagsimula ang infestation ng coconut scale insect o cocolisap?Ayon sa Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), nagsimula ang infestation na ito sa Tanauan, Batangas noong 2010. Noon, inakalang ito ay isa lamang sa ating native species ng coconut scale insect na nagiging problema tuwing tag-araw ngunit nawawala din sa tag-ulan. Ngunit nang manatili pa rin ang mga coconut scale insect sa paglipas ng taon kahit tag-ulan, nag-suspetsya ang UP Los Banos (UPLB) na ito ay bagong species.

Bakit ito tinawag na coconut scale insect?Ang ibig sabihin ng scale ay kaliskis. Ito ay parang kaliskis ng isda at makikita sa ilalim ng mga dahon ng niyog. Sumisipsip ito ng katas sa mga dahon na nagiging sanhi ng paninilaw ng mga dahon hanggang sa matuyo. Kakaiba ang insektong ito sa kadahilanang kapag nagsimula na itong manginain sa dahon ay nawawalan na ito ng mga paa.

Paano kumakalat ang insektong ito?Kapag nawalan na ng paa ang coconut scale insect, magsisimula na itong mangitlog. Sa pagkapisa ng mga itlog, lalabas naman ang tinatawag na crawlers o yung mga may paa. Ang mga crawlers ay maglalakad para makalipat ng puwesto at magsisimula na namang kumain. May mga panahon naman na sila ay bumibitaw sa dahon at nililipad ng hangin kaya sila kumakalat.

Bakit itinuturing na peste ang cocolisap?Ito ay isang introduced o bagong species at nasa outbreak stage sa ngayon. Ibig sabihin, mabilis ang pagkalat at pagdami nito. Sa pagdating nito sa ating bansa, hindi niya dala ang kanyang mga natural na kalaban kung kaya’t ito ay dumadami. Saan nanggaling ang cocolisap?Ang mga specie na ito ng coconut scale insect, ayon sa kasaysayan at tala sa siyensiya, ay makikita lamang sa Indonesia.

Ano ang mga palatandaan na may inpestasyon ng cocolisap ang mga niyog?Ang pinakapalatandaan ay ang paninilaw ng mga lumang dahon. Nagsisimula ang paninilaw mula sa ibabaw ng dahon. Sa pagdami ng cocolisap sa dahon, ang mga dating magkakahiwalay at batik batik na paninilaw ay nagdidikit-dikit at nabubuo.

Ano ang extent ng damage ng coconut scale insect lalo na dito sa rehiyon ng CALABARZON?Ang inpestasyon nito ay concentrated sa CALABARZON. Sa ngayon, ang estimate na inpestasyon nito sa CALABARZON

Ano nga ba ang tinatawag na coconut scale insect o ang tinatawag na cocolisap? Ating alamin mula kay Dr. Celia dR. Medina, director ng Crop Protection Cluster ng University of the Philippines Los Baños College of Agriculture.

Para sa mensahe, kumento, o suhestiyon na maaaring mapag-usapan sa Dito sa Laguna, tumawag o mag-text: Send LAGUNA <name> <address> <message> to 0916-188-DZLB (3952) o tumawag sa 536-2433.

Ang Dito sa Laguna ay nasa ilalim ng produksyon at pamamahala ng Department of Development Broadcasting and Telecommunication ng UP Los Baños College of Development Communication

Ang bahaging ito ay sa produksyon ng mga sumusunod: Ma. Teresita B. Osalla (Project Coordinator); Cleofe S. Torres at Sherwin Joseph Felicidario (Program Hosts); at Ma. Ciejay Calara (Episode Producer).

ay dalawang milyong mga puno ng niyog. Naapektuhan na nito ang 87 mga munisipalidad mula Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, at Quezon. Ayon sa PCA, anim na porsyento pa lamang ng mga puno ng niyog ang apektado sa buong bansa.

Ano ang malawakang epekto nito sa industriya ng niyog?Sa kasalukuyan, dahil anim na porsyento pa lamang ng mga tanim ang naapektuhan, wala pa itong malaking epekto sa industriya. Ngunit kapag nagkaroon ng malawakang inpestasyon, mapapabagsak nito ang kabuuang produksyon ng niyog.

Gaano kalaking halaga na ang nawawala sa industriya ng niyog dahil sa insektong ito?Ang rough estimate ay 6% ng 1 bilyong dolyares. Matagal makabawi ang industriya ng niyog. Halimbawa na lamang sa Batangas na tinamaan ng inpestasyon noong 2010. Aabot sa tatlo hanggang apat na taon mula sa inpestasyon bago ito makabawi.

Paano maiiwasan ang pagkalat ng cocolisap?Nagdeklara ng quarantine ang coconut scale insect (CSI) task force simula Nobyembre 2013 kung saan hindi maaaring maglabas ng dahon at punla ng mga buko at niyog mula sa mga apektadong lugar.

Ayon sa BPI Administrative Order No.1, Series of 2013, maaari lamang itong mailabas kapag may clearance na aprubado ng mga checkpoint na itinalaga para suriin ito.

Totoo ba na nagdudulot ng pangangati kapag nadapuan ng coconut scale insect?Mayroon pang isang stage ang coconut scale insect kung saan ang mga lalaking insekto ay may pakpak at nakakalipad. Kung ito man ay dahilan ng pangangati, maaaring ito ay dun lamang sa mga sensitibong tao. Ang mas inaalala namin ay ang kakayahan nilang makapuwing sa kadahilanang maliliit talaga ang insektong ito.

Ano ang mga aksyon at hakbang na ginagawa ng ating pamahalaan para matugunan ang problemang ito?Binuo ang CSI Task Force ng Department of Agriculture noong Agosto 2013. Nahahati ito sa dalawa: ang una ay grupo ng Research and Development (R&D) o mga mananaliksik na pinangungunahan ng UPLB, Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), at DOST-PCAARRD; at ang isa pang grupo na tinatawag na operations na pinangungunahan ng PCA, Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) Quarantine, at ang mga lokal na pamahalaan naman ang siyang agad na uma-aksyon sa mga natutuklasan ng R&D.

Maliban sa quarantine, gumawa din ng ilang mga hakbang ang task force upang masugpo ang inpestasyon gaya ng pruning o pagtatanggal ng mga apektadong dahon. Depende sa klasipikasyon ng inpestasyon, hindi dapat lumagpas sa kalahati ng dahon ng niyog ang tatanggalin kapag low at moderate ang inpestasyon. Para naman sa severe ang inpestasyon lalo na kung ang puno ay 60 taon na, pinapayagan na ng PCA na ito ay putulin.

Gagawin din ang malawakan at sabay sabay na paggamit ng trunk injection. Isa ito sa mas madaling pamamaraan para sa mga niyugan na nasa bundok. Sa pamamaraang ito, inaani muna ang lahat ng bunga ng buko at niyog, saka bubutasin ang puno at ilalagay sa loob ng katawan ng niyog ang insecticide. Ayon sa pag-aaral, kayang pabagsakin ng trunk injection ang populasyon ng cocolisap sa loob lamang ng apat na linggo. Sa pagbagsak ng kanilang populasyon, nahihirapan na itong makabawi. Lumalabas na gagastos ng PhP 29 sa bawat puno at sa loob lamang ng 51 araw ay wala nang natitira sa katas at laman ng niyog na mga bahid ng insecticide.

Ang isa pang paraan ay ang organic spraying. Bagama’t halos kapareho lamang ng presyo ang nagagamit dito kada puno, ang paraang ito ay kailangang ulitin ng tatlong beses sa isang buwan o kada 10 araw.

Marami pang mga dapat gawin katulad ng organic spot spraying, pagpapakawala ng mga predators, pagpapalit sa mga pinutol na puno ng niyog at ang pag-aabono.

Ano po ang inyong maipapayo patungkol sa usaping ito?Sa oras na may makitang mga nagsisimulang paninilaw sa inyong niyugan, ipagbigay alam agad sa pinakamalapit na municipal agricultural officer upang hindi na ito kumalat sa mga hindi pa naapektuhang bayan para sa maaga at maagap na pamumuksa sa mga pesteng ito.

Ang Dito sa Laguna ay isang programang ipinalalabas tuwing Sabado sa Community Cable Channel 8 sa ganap na ika-10 ng umaga. Laman nito ang mga magagandang kwento, masasayang karanasan, at makabuluhang mga usapan patungkol sa Laguna. Ang replay ay tuwing Lunes (2PM), Miyerkules (4PM), at Biyernes (10PM) sa parehong istasyon.

by John Paul Omac

There is a common belief that agriculture banks purely on manual labor, and that machinery would be odd in such a setting. However, for the College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology’s (CEAT) research development and extension arm – the Agricultural Mechanization Development Program (AMDP) – is challenging that notion as it envisions a productive and sustainable agriculture.

As shown in their SyenSaya exhibit at the annual Los Baños science fair held from September 10-12, AMDP has developed various technologies and machinery to help farmers improve their production and practices.

Among these machines featured in their exhibit were the UPLB hand tractor, a simple hand tractor that can operate at lower power engines than those used by other tractors; the animal-drawn plow-mounted corn seeder, which aids farmers to plant their corn seeds mechanically with even spacing; and the UPLB two-drum corn sheller, which automatically separates corn kernels from its core and husk.

According to Mario Bueno, university extension specialist, AMDP is committed to serve the Philippine agri-fisheries sector through mechanization. “We envision the Philippines to be responsive to the challenges of food security, energy sustainability, and environmental protection,” he said.

“We also serve as a ‘clearing house’ of mechanization researches in other SUCs,” Bueno added.

Bueno also explained that they try to be as hands-on as they can with their work, which includes community visits, mechanization needs assessments and analysis, and even trainings for the farmers and

When farms and machines fuse

fishermen. Their beneficiaries have even extended to as far as Bohol and Mindanao.

Even young students who went to the fair showed appreciation for the program.

Albert Pena, a grade six student from Tadlac Elementary School, said that he is glad that there are efforts to help the farmers. “Dapat po kasing tulungan rin ang mga magsasaka dahil sila ang nagbibigay ng pagkain sa mga tao,” Pena said.

For their contribution to research and extension in agricultural mechanization, AMDP has been recognized as the Outstanding Research Program during the UPLB’s 104th Foundation Anniversary.

However, for people in the AMDP, the contribution they have done is more than the award itself. “It’s [award] more like a bonus,” Bueno said.

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