Author: Venus Ladaga

P1.13M sales for two-day Ubi Festival

Despite of the bad weather condition, some P1, 136, 313.80 were the total sales of the sold Ubi tubers
during the 2-day Ubi Festival 2025 conducted last Wednesday and Thursday held at the Plaza Rizal, this
city.

Of the P1, 136, 333.80 total sales, the P1,029, 304.80 of it was from the Ubi raw sales, P31,716 (Ubi
processed sales), and the P75,313 (other agriculture products).

There were 19 Municipal Local Government Units (MLGUs) participated the festival namely: Getafe,
Carmen, Panglao, Dimiao, Alburquerque, Maribojoc, Loon, Calape, Sikatuna, Pilar, Talibon, Baclayon,
Loboc, Valencia, Cortes, Corella, Ubay, Alicia and San Isidro; private exhibitors (EJ’s Ube Halaya, AtoAni
Agriventures Inc., Purles Women, Lamac, MPC, KBoOM, Pryce Gas, and Gazeebo Loondon; Agri-Line
Agencies (BISU-Bilar Campus and ATI-7, Department of Agriculture, and Nations Food Authority (NFA).
The Ubi Festival was originally scheduled for three days but due to Tropical Depression “Wilma” that
put Bohol under signal No. 1, the last day of selling of Ubi tubers was cancelled to prevent damage on the
displayed products and to protect the lives of the exhibitors.

Carrying the theme “Ubi’ng Bol-anon: Tinubdan sa Pagkaon, Garbo sa Kulturang Bol-anon,” the
festival featured contests with prizes at stake as the winners were the following: Ubi Festibal Queen 2025
winners crowned as Ubi Festival Queen 2025 – Denia Deiparine (Carmen), 1 st runner-up – Crisan Rose
Tabigue (Valencia), 2 nd Runner-up – Dianna Mae Bonao (Panglao), Best in Thematic Costume – Katrice
Alessandra Racho (Maribojoc), Best in Production Number – Denia Deiparine (Carmen);

Best Farmer’s Rondalla: 1 st – LGU (Carmen), 2 nd (Candungao Rondalla (San Isidro), 3 rd (LGU Calape );
Video Contest: 1 st – (LGU Panglao), 2 nd – (LGU Valencia), 3 rd – (LGU Baclayon); Most participating LGU –
1 st (LGU Carmen), 2 nd – (LGU Valencia), 3 rd – (LGU Panglao); Highest Sales – 1 st – (LGU Ubay); 2 nd –
(LGU Carmen); 3 rd (LGU Pilar); Highest Volume – 1 st (LGU Ubay), 2 nd – (LGU Carmen), 3 rd – (LGU
Valencia); Motorcade – 1 st (LGU Carmen), 2 nd – (LGU Panglao), 3 rd – LGU Valencia).

For Pinaka Ubi contest of different varieties: Tam-isan – 1 st – Virginia Sernada – Carmen), 2 nd (Leonisa
Buna (Ubay), 3 rd – Allan Madronero (Dimiao); Kabus-ok – 1 st – Allan Madronero (Dimiao), 2 nd – Romulo
Campoamor (Carmen), 3 rd – Veneranda Lungay (Cortes); Baligonhon – 1 st – Boby Pahit (Valencia), 2 nd –
Mario Ochea (Carmen), 3 rd – Allan Madronero (Dimiao); Kinampay – 1 st – Roldan Daligdig (Carmen), 2 nd –
Cipriano Curay (Alicia), 3 rd – Vivencio Lingatong (Cortes);

Best in Ubi Street Dancing – 1 st (LGU-Carmen), 2 nd (LGU-Panglao), 3 rd (LGU-Valencia), and Best
Booth and Product Display_ 1 st (LGU Valencia), 2 nd (LGU Carmen), 3 rd (Loon).

Governor Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado thanked the exhibitors for their continued commitment and
support to enhance the Ubi industry in the province of Bohol.

Gov. Aumentado said that the provincial government is consistently supporting the agri-fishery sector
to alleviate their livelihood as they are the important partners to achieve the agricultural goals in his
administration.

Provincial Agriculturist Liza M. Quirog stressed the importance of conducting the Ubi Festival every
year in Bohol to showcase the different varieties of Ubi especially the Ubi Kinampay such name has been
included in the lyrics of the Bohol Hymn which we have been sung daily.

Quirog said that since before during our early ancestors, the Ubi Kinampay in Bohol has been famous
because of its natural aroma which has not found of the same variety from other provinces.
She thanked the participating exhibitors as she asked for their continued support to the plans and
programs of the provincial government. (Atoy Cosap)

Farmers’ Big Day a truly big day for farmers

The celebration of Farmers Big Day in Bohol as part of the Rice Festival Month in line with the National Rice
Awareness Month (NRAM) was truly a big day for the Boholano farmers and fisherfolks who have been continued
helping the Provincial Government of Bohol ( PGBh) in shaping up the agricultural landscape in the province.

This developed as the 47 winners of the Suhid sa Malampusong Bol-anon Vegetable Corridors: Bol-anong
Busog ug Himsog Program and the seven people’s organizations received the awards yesterday.

Senator Francis “Kiko” N. Pangilinan, Chair Senate Committee on Agriculture and Agrarian Reforms and Gov.
Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado led the awarding of cash and turning over the HDPE fish cages, fish feeds and
seaweeds inputs during the NRAM Rice Festivals Farmers Big Day yesterday held at the Municipal Gym, Pob
lacion, Garcia Hernandez. The 47 winners of Suhid Vegetable Corridors we’re came from the towns of Garcia
Hernandez, Valencia, Jagna, Duero, Guindulman, and Sierra-Bullones.

Sen. Pangilinan in his keynote speech said that he came here during the celebration of Farmers Big Day to unite
the Boholano farmers who are contributors to the food supplies in the country to feed the Filipinos.

Pangilinan emphasized that the government has been working to give more programs intended for agri-fishery
sector to ensure food security, a sector which is vulnerable on the effects of climate.

In his message of support, Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado affirmed the strong support for the
agri-fishery sector during the “Farmers’ Big Day”

Gov. Aumentado emphasized that the “Farmers’ Big Day” celebration is a significant opportunity to honor the
farmers, whom he described as the province’s “frontliners” in ensuring food security and sufficiency.

“We are doing this as a gesture of gratitude for your service. The provincial government is serious in its efforts
to strengthen the agriculture sector,” the governor said. He assured that under his administration, the province will
continue to provide full and unwavering support to the thousands of farmers across Bohol.

Aumentado also urged Boholanos to support local producers by purchasing locally grown rice and avoiding the
wastage of rice and other agricultural products. He stressed that responsible consumption is essential in sustaining
the province’s food supply.

During the event, Governor Aumentado expressed his gratitude to Senator Francis Pangilinan for extending
support to the activities and initiatives of the “Farmers’ Big Day,” which aim to uplift and empower the agricultural
sector in the province.

Provincial Agriculturist Liza Quirog, in her statement of purpose, underscored the significance of the National
Rice Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of valuing rice as a vital agricultural resource. She emphasized
that purchasing locally produced rice is essential in supporting the livelihood of local farmers and strengthening the
province’s agricultural economy. She even urged the Boholanos to eat brown rice which is nutritious and good to
our body. Quirog congratulated the winners of the Suhid sa Malampusong Bol-anon: Vegetable Corridors.
Quirog also expressed her gratitude for the time and support extended by Senator Francis Pangilinan during the
event. She affirmed the efforts of the Provincial Government under the leadership of Governor Aris Aumentado,
particularly its initiatives aimed at boosting the agri-fishery sector and improving the productivity of farmers and
fisherfolk.

Furthermore, she thanked the various local government units for their continued cooperation and assistance to
the Provincial Government in advancing agricultural development across Bohol.

The NRAM was promulgated oursuant to Proclamation No. 524, s. 2004, declaring every November as National
Rice Awareness Month aligning the commitment to elevate appreciation for rice farming, foster sustainable
agricultural practices, cultural celebration and fortity community bonds. By Atoy Cosap with reports from Venuz
Ladaga

Ubi buy-back for Dispersal

It might be that there is no enough reason on why the Boholano farmers do not have interest to plant Ubi crop in
the agricultural province of Bohol.

This as the Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA)
has allocated the amount of P2.8M for Ubi buy-back dispersal program specifically for Kinampay and Baligonhon
varieties before the year ends.

Provincial Agriculturist Liza M. Quirog during the coordination meeting with Municipal
Agriculturists/Municipal Agricultural Officers (MAs/MAOs) and representatives from agri-line and partner agencies
last Wednesday held at the Reynas the Haven and Garden, New Calceta St., Cogon, Tagbilaran City, urged the Ubi
growers through the MAs/MAOs to plant more areas for Ubi to address the volume of demands domestically and
internationally.

The provincial agriculturist bared that based on records of OPA, it showed that out of 484.5 hectares (has.) of
potential areas for Ubi in the province only 82.79 has. are planted.

In the Ubi buy-back dispersal, the PGBh will buy good quality Ubi Kinampay and Baligonhon tubers in Ubay,
Carmen and Pilar and which will be given to the Ubi growers. The number of kilos to be given is the same number
of kilos will be returned back to the PBGBh and will be dispersed to other towns.

She said that there is a protocol strictly being followed in this program that there is no replanting of Ubi in the
same location because the fungi are carried within the Ubi tubers itself and when planted on the same area the fungi
will thrive and spread rapidly.

Quirog underscored the conduct of Ubi Festival in Bohol which will be celebrated on every first week of
December in every year to sustain the Ubi industry in the province.
She asked higher government officials to put up more resources for Ubi industry so as more interventions to be
given to the Boholano Ubi growers.

In the conduct of Ubi Festival 2025 which is slated on December 3-5, 2025, the provincial agriculturist is
hopeful that there are more LGUs to participate compared to last year activity which had 16 LGUs.
The Ubi known towns in Bohol are the following: Pilar and Carmen which have the potential areas of 45 has.
each; Dagohoy, Ubay, and Guindulman (35 has. each), San Miguel (30 has.); Garcia Hernandez and Danao (28 has.
each); Talibon and Calape (25 has. each);

Alicia, and Valencia (20 has. each); Catigbian (15 has.); Baclayon and Batuan (12 has. each); Sevilla, Mabini and
Balilihan (10 has. each); Cortes, Sikatuna, Getafe, and Jagna (5 has. each); Maribojoc (3.5 has.);
Antequera, Panglao, and Bien Unido (3 has. each); Corella (2 has.) while the town of Dauis has only a hectare Ubi
areas.

Gov. Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado will lead the Boholanos in the three-day activities of Ubi Festival 2025
which will be held at the Plaza Rizal, in front of the St. Joseph Cathedral, this city which will be highlighted with
different contests to include street dancing and Ubi Festival Queen. By Atoy Cosap

P33.6M Bohol’s initial damages to agri-fishery due to Typhoon “Tino”

The Typhoon “Tino” left Bohol last Tuesday with P33, 624, 660 worth of initial estimated damages to agri-
fishery products from the 12 out of 47 towns and one city in the province namely: Getafe, Trinidad, Talibon, Pres.
Carlos P. Garcia, Candijay, Inabanga, Loboc, Dauis, Bien Unido, Carmen, Mabini, and Dagohoy.
From that initial estimated damaged value: P32, 959, 140.90 from crops (rice, corn, high value crops, and
cassava) from 8 out of 48 towns; and, P665, 520.00 from fishery products (sea weeds, Bangus fish cages, and
fishing gears) from 5 out of 48 municipalities.

Of the 12 towns who filed their reports, the municipality of Getafe had registered the heavy damage that valued
to P19, 102, 000 of which P19, 077, 000 of this from crops and P25, 000 from fishery (seaweeds), Trinidad (P6, 888,
900 – crops), Talibon (P3, 823, 350 – crops), Pres. Carlos P. Garcia (P1, 062, 601.23 – crops),
Candijay (P925, 560 – crops), Inabanga (P840, 805 – crops), Bien Unido (P330, 000 – fishery products and
fishing gears), Carmen (P250, 000 – Tilapia ponds), Loboc (P201, 500 – crops), Dauis (139, 425 – crops), Mabini
(P30, 520 – fishery), and Dagohoy (P30, 000 – Tilapia ponds).

For the extent of damage on crops: rice (67.49%), corn (4.98%), high value crops (27.32%), and cassava
(0.22%); while for fishery: Bangus (51.04%), Tilapia (44.57%), and Seaweeds (4.39%).

Provincial Agriculturist Liza M. Quirog said that the damages are expected to increase once all reports will be
submitted and consolidated by the OPA as she asked the MAs/MAOs to file their damage reports so as the OPA
could submit it to the Department of Agriculture (DA) for -possible funding and interventions.

Provincial Agriculturist Quirog urged the agri-fishery sector to be vigilant about the weather condition as another
weather disturbance “Fung Wong” to be named as “Uwan” once it would enter to the Philippine Area of
Responsibility (PAR) that seems to wreak havoc on the Philippine soil.

The fierceness of Typhoon Tino that struck Bohol with signal no. 4 in Pres. Carlos P. Garcia, Ubay, Talibon,
Trinidad, Getafe, and Bien Unido: signal no. 3 – San Miguel, Mabini, Buenavista, Inabanga, Danao, Dagohoy,
Guindulman, Pilar, Alicia, Anda, Jagna, Duero, Carmen, Sierra-Bullones, Sagbayan, Clarin, Tubigon, Batuan,
Catigbian,San Isidro, Calape and Loon; while the rest of municipalities were under signal no. 2, claimed one life
(Panglao), and caused damages to crops, fishery, livestocks, poultry, houses, and infrastructures especially in the
Second District which was badly hit considering the proximity from the eye of the typhoon Tino located in Eastern
Samar. By Atoy Cosap

15 MLGUs to participate Ubi Festival’24

There are 15 Municipal LocaL Government Units (MLGUs) confirmed to participate the Ubi Festival 2024
slated on December 18, 19, qnd 20, 2024 at the Plaza Rizal, Tagbilaran City.

It was known during the Ubi Festival 2024 final meeting held at the Arabelle Suite, New Calceta St., Cogon, this
city that the 16 MLGUs are the following: Loon, Getafe, Maribojoc, Sevilla, Carmen, Ubay, San Isidro, Tagbilaran
City, Valencia, Baclayon, Panglao, Sikatuna, Loboc, Cortes and Corella.

The 3-day Ubi Fest which carries the theme “Tatak Ubi’ng Bol-anon, Palambuon”, will be highlighted with the
Ubi Festival Queen’24 with big prizes at stake: 1 st prize (P15, 000), 2 nd prize (P10, 000), 3 rd prize (P8, 000), and the
non-winning candidates would receive P5, 000 each as consolation prizes, Best in Production Number (P2, 000),
and Best in Ubi Costume (P3, 000).

There are only six MLGUs confirmed to have their candidates for the Search for Ubi Festival Queen 2024.
Other contests and its corresponding prizes to make the festival more festive are the following: Ubi Float with
Miss Ubi candidate (1 st prize-P15, 000, 2 nd prize- P10, 000, 3 rd prize-P8, 000 and consolation prize at P5, 000 each);
Most Participative LGU (1 st – P10, 000, 2 nd – P8, 000, 3 rd – P6, 000 and consolation prize at P2, 000 each), Best
Booth/Product Display (1 st – P15, 000, 2 nd – P10, 000, 3 rd – P8, 000 and consolation prize at P5, 000 each.

Pinaka on Different Ubi Varieties (Kinampay – 1 st – P6, 000, 2 nd – P4, 000, 3 rd – P3, 000 and a consolation prize
at P1, 000 each), Baligonhon – 1 st – P4, 000, 2 nd – 3, 000, 3 rd – P2, 000 and consolation prize at P1, 000), Kabus-ok
(1sr – P4, 000, 2 nd – P3, 000, 3 rd – P2, 000). Tam-isan (1 ST – P2, 000, 2 nd – P1, 500, 3 rd – P1, 000 and consolation at
P500, Iniling (1 st – P2, 000, 2 nd – p1, 500, 3 rd – P1, 000 and consolation at P500.

Highest Ubi Volume/Sales (1 st – P5, 000, 2 nd prize – P3, 000, 3 rd – P2, 000 and consolation at P1, 000 each), Best
Farmers Rondalla (1 st – P10, 000, 2nd – P8, 000, 3 rd – P6, 000, and consolation at P3, 000 , and consolation at P3,
000 each, Best New Ubi Kakanin Products (1 st – P8, 000, 2 nd – P6, 000, 3 rd – P4, 000, and consolation at P1, 000
each).

Ubi Festival 2024 Promotional Video (1 st – P8, 000, 2 nd – P6, 000, 3 rd – P4, 000, and consolation at P1, 000 each,
Best in Reenactment/Street Dancing Contest (1 st – P18, 000, 2 nd – P15, 000, 3 rd – P12, 000, and consolation at P5,
000 each.

Governor Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado and Vice-Governor Tita Baja would lead the Provincial Govwernment
of Bohol (PGBh) to award and recognize the Ubi growers who have been sustaining the Ubi industry in Bohol.

Provincial Agriculturist Liza M. Quirog is hopeful that the Ubi industry in the province will flourish as there are
concerted efforts be done from the PGBh, Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Department of Agriculture (ATI),
and Bohol Island State University (BISU-Bilar) and Ubi stakeholders.

Quirog said the provincial government had already a Provincial Ordinance No. 2023-401, “Establishing the Ubi
Development Framework of the Province of Bohol and Appropriating Funds Therefor” which is very important in
the quest to flourish the Ubi industry.

Last Thursday at the Ceremonial Hall, 4 th Floor, New Capitol Building, Cogon, Tagbilaran City. The Office of
the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) facilitated the Ubi Policy Development Forum of which the ATI had presented
the Ubi Roadmap for Extension Services; Bohol Purple Women presented the Experiences/Encounters by BAHRR
Consumers Related to Ubi Supply, Demand, Tuber and Product Tuber Quality;

BISU-Bilar presented the Research Needs of Ubi for Food Security and Industrial Growth as the OPA presented
the Government Support for Ubi supply through Plant Material Dispersal and Ubi Promotions. By Atoy Cosap

Awarding on SUHID 24 winners on Thurs.

The Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) will
award and recognize the winners of the 22 categories of the Suhid sa Malampusong Mag-uumang Bol-anon 2024 on
Thursday to be held at the Ceremonial Hall, 3 rd Floor, New Capitol Building, Cogon, Tagbilaran City.

Carrying the theme of the tilt “Ang Katambayayong Sa Agrikultura Nga Dugukan Sa Ekonomiya; Pasidunggan
Ta“, the PGBh will award and recognize the winners of the different categories and their corresponding prizes which
are the following: Danahaw Integrated School (Secondary) from Clarin, Bohol as Outstanding 4H-Club who will
receive P15, 000 plus Garden Cultivator; Tinago Dauis Farmers Association (Dauis, Bohol) – Outstanding Farmers
Association Program Based (P15, 000 plus Garden Cultivator and Power Tiller); Ubay Fish Vendors Association
(Ubay) – Outstanding Fishermen’s Association ( P15, 000 plus 16 HP Marine Engine Mega, Chest Type Freezer);

Ubay Native Chicken Raisers Association (Ubay) – Outstanding Organic Practitioner (P15, 000 plus Garden
Cultivator, Hand Tractor); Jomer M. Balag (Batuan) – Outstanding Organic Agriculture Individual Practitioner (P10,
000 plus Garden Cultivator); Rufo B. Nuez (Ubay) – Outstanding Farmer on Integrated Rice Based-Farming (P5,
000 plus Power Tiller, Hand Tractor with Trailer); Carmelita I. Cadorniga (Ubay) – Outstanding Hybrid Corn
Farmer (P5, 000 plus Corn Sheller);

Teresita J. Gamale (Valencia) – Outstanding OPV Corn Farmer (P5, 000 plus Corn Sheller); Casino Monil
(Bilar) – Outstanding Integrated High Value Crops Farmer (P5, 000 plus Garden Cultivator); Eduardo D. Dag-um
(Carmen) – Outstanding Cacao Grower (P5, 000 plus Mechanical Pruner); Imelda G. Agbon (Carmen) –
Outstanding Cassava Farmer (P5, 000 plus Hand Tractor); Edelbrando I. Namoc (Valencia) – Outstanding Banana
Grower (P5,000 plus Garden Cultivator); Leonisa B. Buna (Ubay) – Outstanding Ubi Grower (P5, 000 plus Garden
Cultivator);

Gerry P. Bernaldez (Pilar) – Outstanding Tilapia Culture Commercial Pond (P5, 000 plus HDPE Liner/Pond
Liner 1.5mm 5.8mx50m); Cresencio Camposo (Carmen) – Outstanding Tilapia Culture Backyard Pond (P5, 000
plus HDPE Liner/Pond Liner 1.5mm 5.8mx50m); Benjamin B. Sarabosing, Jr. (Ubay) – Outstanding Bangus Culture
Cage (P5, 000 plus 16 HP Marine Engine Mega, Chest Type Freezer); Ma. Concepcion M. Bongola (Valencia) –
Oustanding Municipal Agriculturist (P5, 000 plu Garden Cultivator); Efrenia C. Holt (Calape) – Outstanding Rural
Woman (P5, 000 plus Garden Cultivator);

Guillermo M. Lucip (San Miguel) – Outstanding Organic Technician (P5, 000 plus Garden Cultivator); Ma.
Michele F. Lariza (Guindulman) – Outstanding Rice Technician (P5, 000 plus Garden Cultivator); Anecita Q.
Ybanez (Sierra-Bullones) – Outstanding Corn Farmer (P5, 000) plus Garden Cultivator); and Ma. Trisha L.
Rempillo (Ubay) – Outstanding HVCDP Technician (P5, 000 pluus Garden Cultivator).

The Local Government Unit of Ubay, Bohol got the highest numbers of winners who bagged seven out of 22
different categories.

Governor Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado together with Provincial Agriculturist Liza M. Quirog and Assistant
Provincial Agriculturist Larry M. Pamugas will lead the giving of awards and recognition to the winners of the
search. By. Atoy Cosap

Research reveals to work harder for Ubi industry

The Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) and Ubi
stakeholders need to burn out its midnight candle to flourish the Ubi industry in the agricultural province of Bohol.

This after the presentation of the Ubi Research Outputs presented by Engr. Dennis B. Jomoc, Chairperson,
College Research of the Bohol Island State University (BISU), Bilar Campus last Wednesday during the Research
Needs Assessment Forum for Ubi held at the Jj’s Seafood Village, Tagbilaran City that showed that there is a need to
connect the gaps between the government, stakeholders and Ubi growers to boost the industry.

Jomoc presented their recommendations based on actual encounters and findings of their study to bridge the gaps
which are the following: Production of an Ubi Commodity Road Map for Bohol; Investment to machinery and
equipment for sustainable upland farming and value-adding; investment to seed yam production system such as
tissue culture cum aeroponics for the production of quality planting materials; strategies and approaches for effective
enhancement of productivity and production volume;

Machine and equipment development for Ubi-based and enhanced food products; performance of Ubi under
protected and irrigated environments; Ubi stability map in Bohol for efficient and effective resource allocation and
utilization; DNA sequencing of Bohol Ubi varieties; micro-climate identification and/or characterization of soils in
the Ubi production areas;

Response of Ubi (growth, yield, and tuber properties) on different agroecological zones to organic and inorganic
nutrients supplementations; mass production of quality planting materials using the current production technologies;
and performance evaluation of the conventional method of Ubi production and farmer’s adopted practices.

He disclosed that there are only 430 Ubi growers in the province tilling the 6 hectares (has.) scattered in 16
towns which are only small when we speak about boosting Ubi industry namely: Panglao (33), Dauis (16),
Tagbilaran City (19), Baclayon (71), Cortes (24), Corella (32), Sikatuna (16), Loon (35), and Alburquerque (61) in
the First District; Ubay ((7) and Sagbayan (15) in the Second Dist.; Dimiao (4), Loay (1), Bilar (11), Pilar (12),
Carmen (48) and Jagna (25) with an average Ubi production area per grower is 138 sq. meters.

Jomoc said that generally, there is a decreasing trend of production area from 2010 to 2022 in Bohol and the
aging average age of Ubi growers is 61. He said that with regards to the status of ownership in the production area,
there are about two-thirds of the Ubi production area is personally-owned and 3 out of 10 Ubi growers have tenanted
lot for production.

Felix Tubiano, Center Chief, Department of Agriculture – Bohol Experiment Station (DA-BES) admitted that
Bohol could not produce mass production of Ubi because of the limited production areas and only one planting
season a year.

Tubiano said the BES had conducted research on Ubi especially the Kinampay variety on its characteristics,
aromatic taste compared to other provinces of the same variety using the tissue cultured derived-Ubi plantlets.

Dr. Clarissa B. Jamilo, Senior Research Specialist, DA-BES said that it was found out that based on their study
that early planting of tissue cultured derived planting materials resulted to higher number and weight of tuber
produced in Baligonhon and Kinampay varieties; average number of tubers produced as classified according to
weight ranges from 10 grams to more than 150 grams; mostly tuber production in the three varieties planted monthly
reached the 50 grams weight which could be used as planting materials in the field.

They also found out that tissue-cultured plantlet is a good alternative to Ubi setts as planting material in the
production of quality Ubi seeds and tubers; given the right cultural management practices, tissue cultured derived
Ubi plantlets produced marketable and bigger tubers.

Executive Assistant to the Governor for Agriculture Nunila M. Pinat for and in behalf of Governor Erico
Aristotle C. Aumentado in her message informed the participants of the forum that under the administration of Gov.
Aumentado, the provincial government had crafted the Ubi Development Framework.

She lauded the research study made by BISU and BES and she hoped that the Ubi production in Bohol would
expand. Pinat questioned why Boholano Ubi growers have been using Ubi planting materials from other provinces
with the fact that we have our owned production here.

According to Pinat, this is a great challenge for us to expand the Ubi industry in Bohol.
Provincial Agriculturist Liza M. Quirog earlier said that the forum serves as an initiative of the Bohol Ubi Board
in our shared mission to further elevate the Ubi industry – a cornerstone of Bohol’s agricultural identity and a key
contributor to our local economy.

The activity aims to identify research gaps and opportunities, specific research needs and research priorities for
Ubi and foster cross – disciplinary and cross-sectoral collaboration, she said.

Quirog stressed that the forum would also provide a platform to present recent research findings and
advancements, aligning with global trends and technological innovations. This exchange of knowledge would enable
stakeholders to collectively shape a dynamic research agenda tailored to the needs and aspirations of Bohol’s Ubi
industry.

She added that these partnerships are crucial to unlocking innovative approaches that address the challenges
faced by Ubi growers and processors, while also exploring opportunities for diversification, value addition, and
sustainability. By Atoy Cosap

Ubi Festival 2024 set

The Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) will once again support the high value of Ubi crop in the province
by conducting Ubi Festival and on this year is slated on December 18 – 20, 2024 at the Plaza Rizal, Tagbilaran City.
According to Provincial Agriculturist Liza M. Quirog, all Municipal Local Government Units (MLGUs) in the
province are encouraged to participate in the 3-day festival.

Quirog emphasized that MLGUs through the Municipal Agriculturists/Municipal Agricultural Officers
(MAs/MAOs) may select farmers, cooperatives or associations to handle the exhibits. The exhibitors may display
raw or processed Ubi from the famers and processors.

She said that the participants will be provided with display areas with basic amenities and will also be given food
subsistence for the duration of the festival.

During the festival, there are different contests with prizes at stake to be undertaken such as: Search for Ubi
Festival Queen 2024, Float Parade, Highest Ubi Volume/Sales, Best Booth Product Display, Best New Ubi Festival
Kakanin Products, Most Participative, Best Farmer Rondalla, Best Ubi Festival 2024 Promotional Video Contest and
among others as the Float Parade will commence to start the festival.

The awards and cash prizes will be given to the winners in every category during the awarding and closing
ceremony in the afternoon of the last day of the fest.

Ubi Festival is the yearly activity of the PGBh which considered Ubi as one of the most significant and valued –
crop whose objectives are: to showcase fresh Ubi tubers, processed products and product lines; to appreciate
farmers’ Ubi cultural rituals by re-enactment of unique planting practices; to showcase Ubi in Boholano culture
through songs and dances.

To introduce scientific updates in production and value-adding; to identify issues relative to its production,
marketing and other industry concerns; to discover local talent and beauties through the participation of the Ubi
pageant; and to ensure the availability of quality raw products and assess the farmers, the women sector, the
processors and youth of their participation in the celebration.

This year would be the second time of the annual activity that the festival be conducted in December as since the
start this would be done on every second week of January.

This too after the request of the Boholano Ubi growers had been granted that the festival be done in December
which would be the month of Ubi harvesting. By Atoy Cosap

SUHID winners to be awarded

The sweats and toils among Boholano farmers and fisherfolks in helping the province to ensure food sufficiency
and security will once again be recognized and awarded by the Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) through the
Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA).

This after the PGBh has scheduled the awarding and recognition ceremony for the winners of the Suhid sa
Malampusong Mag-uumang Bol-anon 2024 on December 11, 2024 to be held at the Ceremonial Hall, 3 rd Floor, New
Capitol Building, Cogon, Tagbilaran City.

Carrying the theme “Ang Katambayayong Sa Agrikultura Nga Dugukan Sa Ekonomiya; Pasidunggan Ta“, the
PGBh will award and recognize the winners of the 22 categories of the search who will receive cash prizes and farm
equipment.

The winners of the different categories and their corresponding prizes are the following: Danahaw Integrated
School (Secondary) from Clarin, Bohol as Outstanding 4H-Club who will receive P15, 000 plus Garden Cultivator;
Tinago Dauis Farmers Association (Dauis, Bohol) – Outstanding Farmers Association Program Based (P15, 000
plus Garden Cultivator and Power Tiller); Ubay Fish Vendors Association (Ubay) – Outstanding Fishermen’s
Association ( P15, 000 plus 16 HP Marine Engine Mega, Chest Type Freezer);

The Local Government Unit of Ubay, Bohol got the highest numbers of winners who bagged seven out of 22
different categories.

Some 106-unit farm equip turned over

Some 106 units of various rice machineries and equipment amounting to P144.77M were distributed to the 57
Farmers’ Cooperatives Associations (FCAs) beneficiaries in the province of Bohol last November 8, 2024, at the
Poblacion Public Market Covered Court, Dagohoy, Bohol.

This would be under the 2023 and 2024 fund source of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF)
Mechanization Program from Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech).

The machineries being distributed were: Four-wheel Tractor Tier II (16 units), Four-wheel Tractor Tier III (16),
PTO Disc Plow (29), Levee Maker (8), Walk-behind Transplanter (2), Rice Combine Harvester Tier II Joystick (8),
Rice Combine Harvester Tier II FDS (8), Rice Combine Harvester Tier III (6), Recirculating Dryer 6T (2), Single
Pass Rice Mill Stationary (10), and Multi Stage Rice Mill 1,5tph (1).

During the opening program, Provincial Agriculturist Liza M. Quirog who represented Gov. Erico Aristotle C.
Aumentado as the keynote speaker thanked the PhilMech for the farm machineries and equipment given to the FCAs
which are very useful for them in helping the Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) in shaping up the agricultural
landscape in our agricultural province.

Quirog congratulated the beneficiaries as she asked them to take good care of the machineries and equipment for
longer use of it.

She emphasized that the provincial government under the administration of Gov. Aris in strong collaboration
with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and PhilMech has always been looking at for the good of the agri-fishery
sector which is the backbone of our economy.

Senator Cynthia A. Villar, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Food and Agriculture in her video message
also congratulated the FCAs beneficiaries in Bohol.

Sen. Villar lauded the role of the farmers and fisherfolks in ensuring food security in the country which are
always threatened by the effects of the climate change.

Others who gave the messages were: Balilihan Municipal Kagawad Abel Llorente in lieu of First District
Congressman Edgar M. Chatto; Assistant DA-7 Director Cirilo Namoc in behalf of RED, DA-7 Angel Enriquez;
and Dionisio G. Alvinidia, Director IV, PhilMech as Dagohoy Mayor Germinio C. Relampagos delivered his
welcome remarks.

According to the DA, the rationale of the program is that the PhilMech is the lead agency in the implementation
of the RCEF Mechanization Program. Based on the approved implementing rules and regulations of RA 11203 or
the Rice Tariffication Law, 50% of the Rice Fund or P5B annually for the period of six years (2019-2024) shall be
released to and implemented by the PHilMech as grant in kind rice farm equipment such as tillers, seedes, rice
planters, harvesters, threshers, mechanical dryers, rice mills, etc. to eligible FCAs and local government units
(LGUs).

The rice mechanization component aims to raise rice farmers’ productivity, profitability and global
competitiveness through strengthen access and use of appropriate production and postproduction mechanization
technologies.

The expected direct benefits of the mechanization and postharvest facility intervention specifically for the users
and beneficiaries of the projects are: a) reduction of production cost of farmer-users by P2-3 per kilogram using
precise, effective and complete system of mechanized production technologies; and b) reduction of postproduction
losses of farmer-users by 3-5% using appropriate and efficient postproduction technologies.

These are apart from the other benefits that can be derived such as boosting the local agricultural machinery
manufacturing industry and employment, widespread adoption of mechanization technologies, promotion of locally
fabricated technologies, yield increment, increasing the cropping intensity, timeliness of farm operation and reduction of labor, and additional income that can be generated from using the machineries and equipment. By Atoy
Cosap