DOST-CAR, BSU and PMR 88 Development Corporation collaborate on Tea and Wine Research and Innovation in the Cordillera

■ DAISY LOU QUINIO

In a significant step towards promoting research, development, and innovation in the Cordillera region, the Department of Science and Technology - Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR) have joined forces with Benguet State University (BSU) and PMR 88 Development Corporation. The collaborative effort aims to enhance the formulation of R&D proposal on tea, and wine products through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the involved parties.

The MOU signing, held on January 26, 2023, paves the way for a fruitful partnership that will leverage the expertise and resources of each organization involved. The primary objective is to develop innovative and high-quality products derived from tea, coffee, and strawberries, which are prominent agricultural commodities in the Cordillera region.

This collaborative project is hoped to be subsequently be submitted for this year’s DOST Call for Proposal, with the anticipation of securing funding to support its implementation.

During the MOU signing ceremony, key figures from the participating organizations were present to express their commitment and support for the collaboration. Notable attendees included DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang; DOST-CAR Regional Director, Dr. Nancy Bantog; BSU President, Dr. Felipe Salaing Comila; and Dr. Prudencio M. Reyes, Jr. of PMR 88 Development Corporation.

Former City Councilor Atty. Richard Carino, Dr. Imelda O. Degay and Mr. Lesley Dale G. Umayat from BSU, Mr. Francisco Pagayon of the Filipino Inventors Society Producer Cooperative, and Dr. Pita Picpican and Engr.

The project holds promise for the Cordillera region, as it not only aims to develop new and improved products but also to explore various value-added opportunities for tea, coffee, and strawberry farmers. The research and development efforts will focus on improving cultivation techniques, enhancing product quality and packaging, and exploring novel applications for these commodities.

Moreover, the collaboration between academic institutions like BSU and industry partners such as PMR 88 Development Corporation will foster knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and capacity building. This multidisciplinary approach will lead to comprehensive and impactful research outcomes, benefiting farmers, entrepreneurs, consumers, and the region as a whole.

Participants from Filipino Inventors Society-CAR (FISCAR) present their inventions during the INVENTouring: a Regional Proposal Enhancement Writeshop for Pinoy Inventors on March 8, 2023 at Newton Plaza Hotel, Baguio City.