After a quick ribbon-cutting to formally open the CAFS exhibit, the opening program of the week-long celebration of the CAFS 111th Foundation Day commenced last March 3 at the Seniors’ Social Garden. Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary William Dar served as keynote speaker.

Highlighting the theme, “Enhancing Agricultural Productivity of Filipino Farmers through CAFS Technologies,” CAFS Dean Elpidio Agbisit, Jr., in his opening remarks, emphasized that the technologies developed and exhibited are the College’s input to the goal of increasing agricultural productivity. He said that together, we are 1 College, 1 Agriculture, 1 Future.

Same with CAFS’ goal of increasing agricultural productivity, Sec. Dar emphasized DA’s resolve towards “masaganang ani, mataas na kita.”  In his inspirational speech, he shared DA’s new paradigm that aims to develop the livelihood of Filipino farmers and fisherfolks by increasing local food production and reducing costs. Ultimately, this will lead to food security and increased income for our food providers.

Recognizing CAFS’s role in the work towards DA’s vision, Sec. Dar promised to provide support for the College’s current and future endeavors. But the support comes with a challenge to make the technologies and developments reach more farmers and fisherfolks. He said that it should not stay within the bounds of the academe; he urged that the College make sure that their research outputs are complemented with a strong extension program.

Chancellor Fernando Sanchez, Jr., CAFS faculty, also graced the event and expressed how he finds that theme timely as UPLB is currently positioning itself to take on the role in potentially transforming our country’s agriculture. He also shared that out of the 17 sustainable development goals (SGD), UPLB is most equipped to address, head on, SDG number 2, which is zero hunger by promoting sustainable agriculture.

After the opening program, the visitors were invited to roam around the exhibit. Fresh produce like saging na saba, boiled eggs, lettuce, corn grits, etc.

Also joining the event were Department of Science and Technology Region IV-A Regional Director Alexander Madrigal; former CAFS Deans Enrico Supango and Fernando Bernando; Former CAFS Dean and Chancellor Luis Rey Velasco; National Scientist Ricardo Lantican; Academician Rey Villareal, SEARCA Executive Director Glenn Gregorio; Associate Deans Barbarala Caoili and Adeliza Dorado; and CAFS unit heads and representatives. (AKS Mojar)