DA-RCPC launches Biological Control Satellite lab
The Department of Agriculture, Regional Crop Protection Center (DA-RCPC) launched the first biological control satellite laboratory in Panay at the Iloilo State College of Fisheries (ISCOF) San Enrique Campus.
The biological control laboratory will enhance production of friendly biological insects such as trichogramma, earwigs and metarhizium which will be use as biological control on insect pests in the farms.
Director Larry P. Nacionales of DA-6 stressed the importance of establishing the biological satellite laboratory right inside the campus of an agricultural school wherein collaboration between the DA, LGU and SUCs on research, extension and promotion of environment friendly technologies for agricultural development.
“I commend the persistence and initiative of ISOF campus administrator Engr. Salvador C. Ballano, Jr. for the establishment of this biological satellite laboratory.. His outmost concern in producing pesticide free products and promoting environment friendly technologies is a big help in the agriculture sector.” Said Dir Nacionales
Farmers practicing integrated pest management and organic farming in the municipality of San Enrique and other neighboring towns can now have access on biological control insects.
Meanwhile, Ms. Roselyn Curioso of RCPC said that trichogramma is useful in controlling stem borers and corn borers, while metharhizium is effective in controlling rice black bugs.
ISCOF Administrator Engr. Salvador C. Ballano, Jr. said that the biological laboratory will greatly help the students in appreciating biological pest control and will enhance their learnings and trainings on biological laboratory.
“We are task to promote environment friendly technologies as one of our response to the global climate change and mitigate agricultural problem in the future,” said Engr. Ballano, Jr.
The DA-RCPC has contributed 35 thousand pesos for the supplies and materials during the training of personnel who will manage the laboratory while the ISCOF has spent 100 thousand pesos in renovating its old building for the facility. (JEEO/RAFID 6)