Article by Marisa B. Baccol
CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines – In partnership with the Applied Communication Division of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), Samar State University conducted video shoots and interviews for the online series ‘Lakbay GALING’, featuring the project Science and Technology Community Based Farm (STCBF) on the Production of Sweetpotato Flour as a Substitute for Wheat Flour from July 24 to 25, 2024.
The documentary aims to showcase the project’s success and inspire other regions to adopt similar farming practices, highlighting the positive changes it has brought to the communities.
With the lead of STCBF Project Leader, Professor Marife Mustacisa Lacaba, the Lakbay GALING series explored the success stories of the STCBF community takers, including the United Bakeshop and Mare E Monte Restaurant in Catbalogan City, the Lucerdoni Farmers and Fisherfolk Association (LUFFA) in Brgy. Lucerdoni, Tarangnan, and the Balante Women’s Association and Balante Agriculture Farmers Association (BAGFA) in Brgy. Balante, Basey. The beneficiaries shared their experiences and the benefits gained from the project, and demonstrated the production process of sweet potato flour and its positive impact on their communities.
The STCBF project has significantly improved the income of local farmers and fisherfolk by promoting sweet potato flour. By documenting these efforts, DOST-PCAARRD hopes to highlight the effectiveness of science and technology in boosting agricultural productivity and supporting rural development. Sharing these stories aims to encourage more communities to adopt innovative agricultural solutions and improve their livelihoods.