Provincial Research Development and Innovation Office - Agusan del Sur

Welcome back, 𝗗𝗿. 𝗢𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗿 𝗦. 𝗝𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗼! 🌱✨
With renewed dedication to soil science and evidence-based agriculture, PRDIO is thrilled to collaborate on future research and innovations that will empower farmers and communities in Agusan del Sur.

LOOK || In time with today's flag-raising ceremony at the Capitol Grounds, Engr. Oscar S. Jurado shared his commitment to serve the province of Agusan del Sur. After earning his Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science (Soil Science) at Griffith University, Australia, through the John Allwright Fellowship of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), he returns to Agusan del Sur with a renewed dedication to advance soil science and evidence-based agriculture, aiming to strengthen research-driven programs and provide practical solutions for farmers and local communities.

The fellowship is a prestigious scholarship that equips agricultural researchers with advanced knowledge and leadership skills to address real-world challenges in their home institutions.

Collaboration in Motion. 💡🌍

𝗟𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆? 🌱✨
Aside from Zumba and exercise, planting is a natural way to boost happy hormones. This Wellness Wednesday, PRDIO staff replant eggplant and capsicum in support of the 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗹 𝗚𝗼 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁—wellness from soil to soul. 🌿💚

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧! 🇵🇭🤝🇦🇺

The SLaM 2023/146 Project—supported by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) and DOST-PCAARRD—successfully concluded its Project Evaluation and Site Visitation on March 21–22, 2026.

This two-day activity marks a key milestone in strengthening the project’s implementation and direction. As part of this initiative, the Agusan Team (ADSSU, PRDIO, PAVO-Agri, and USAD) worked together to refine technical frameworks and consolidate critical field data. These efforts are essential in ensuring that all components are aligned and ready for the upcoming Midterm Review (MTR).

Guiding this process are our international partners, Prof. Chengrong Chen of Griffith University and Dr. Evan Thomas from the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI), Queensland. Their active participation and technical insights helped bridge our local research with global scientific standards, reinforcing the quality and relevance of our work.

This strong collaboration was further strengthened by the presence of Congressman Eddiebong Plaza and Governor Santiago Cane, Jr., whose support highlights the provincial government’s commitment to advancing agricultural innovation and supporting the farming communities of Agusan del Sur.

With this collective effort, the team conducted technical validations across diverse farm trial sites, reflecting the project’s wide field application:
• Bunawan, Agusan del Sur – Rice
• Brgy. Lucac, San Francisco – Rubber with Coffee
• Sta. Irene, Prosperidad – Rubber with Banana and Cacao
• San Luis – Rubber with Calamansi
• ARC-Mabuhay, Bayugan City – Rubber-Based Cropping System & Pot Trial

Establishment through this integrated approach—linking field implementation, scientific guidance, and institutional support—we continue to move forward in positioning Agusan del Sur at the forefront of sustainable and science-driven agriculture.

2023/146

𝗦𝗟𝗔𝗠 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯-𝟭𝟰𝟲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁-𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur – March 21, 2026— The Monitoring and Evaluation of the SLAM 2023-146 Projects: First-Year Accomplishments formally commenced at the PRDIO Conference Room, gathering key stakeholders, researchers, and partner institutions to assess the project’s first-year progress and strengthen collaborative efforts in advancing rubber-based farming systems.
The activity opened with a welcome message from Provincial Governor, Hon. Santi Barriga Cane Jr. , who warmly welcomed the participants and congratulated ASSCAT on its successful transition to Agusan del Sur State University (ADSSU). He underscored the importance of science and research in driving agricultural productivity and sustainability in the province.
In his message of support, Congressman Adolph Edward “Eddiebong” Plaza (Team Eddiebong) highlighted the critical role of soil science in ensuring long-term agricultural development. He also emphasized the importance of regularly discussing program progress to ensure transparency and continuous improvement.

Presenting the project rationale, Dr. Adeflor Garcia outlined the objectives of the initiative and discussed key implementation challenges, particularly on weather conditions and manpower constraints that affected field activities.

The technical session featured Prof. Chengrong Chen of Griffith University, who not only encouraged participants to avail of scholarship opportunities and share their knowledge back to the Philippines, but also provided valuable insights and expert feedback on the progress of each project component. Prof. Evan Thomas likewise delivered a message, expressing his appreciation for the warm welcome extended to the team.

The presence of ADSSU President Dr. Joy Capistrano and Vice President for Research Dr. Ferdinand Dumalagan highlighted the university’s strong commitment to research excellence and the crucial role of monitoring and evaluation in ensuring impactful outcomes. In her message, President Capistrano also conveyed her sincere appreciation to Prof. Chengrong Chen, Griffith University, and the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur led by Team Eddiebong for their steadfast support, particularly in the successful attainment of the university status of ADSSU.

During the presentation of updates, component leaders presented their respective accomplishments and progress:
Dr. Fernando L. Marzo Jr.—Rubber + Cacao Intercropping System
Beverly O. Galicia—Rubber + Banana Intercropping System
Dr. Sarah M. Ravelo—Rubber and Coffee Intercropping System
Dr. Raymond F. Gabica– Rubber + Calamansi Intercropping System
Dr. Rodrigo Jr. L. Bongolan—Rice in Rubber Farming Community
Dr. Purificacion O. Cahatian-Pest and Disease Management in Rubber-Based Systems
For the afternoon session, the following presenters shared updates on additional project components:
Leandreux D. Ocasion—Development of Yield-Calibrated Soil Health Index
Armando G. Valiente—Effective Rubber-Based Cropping Systems in USM and Agusan
Janice M. Bangoy – Assessment of Soil Health Knowledge for Capacity Building and Policy Support
Eric Lindbergh C. Inovejas – Philippine Agricultural Soil Information System (Agusan del Sur)

The Day 1 activity provided a comprehensive review of accomplishments, challenges, and ongoing initiatives under the SLAM 2023-146 project, reinforcing the commitment of all stakeholders to enhance research outputs and promote sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

This initiative also contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 (Zero Hunger), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and 13 (Climate Action) by promoting sustainable agriculture, improving soil health, and enhancing climate-resilient farming practices.

The Provincial Research Development and Innovation Office (PRDIO) proudly joined the Department of Trade and Industry – Agusan del Sur (DTI-AdS) in conducting Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Training on Coffee Farm Establishment for farmer cooperators in Bayugan City and Esperanza on March 3–6, 2026.
Through these activities, PRDIO emphasized the importance of soil sampling and analysis in determining fertilizer requirements and improving yields. The office also introduced farmers to the Biogeochemistry Laboratory Information System (BLIMS), a digital platform that enhances soil analysis accuracy and streamlines agricultural data management.
By collaborating with DTI-AdS, local government units, and farmer associations such as SAMACOFA and HEDFA, PRDIO reaffirms its strong commitment to advancing sustainable coffee production and innovation in Agusan del Sur.

𝐏𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐎 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔!🌸💜

With the theme“𝗪𝗘 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗲𝘁𝘆” and the call to “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”, we honor women’s strength, wisdom, and leadership in building an inclusive and empowered nation.

𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗯𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝘂𝘁𝘆! 🍆🌶️

Out in the field, PRDIO knows how to grow teamwork, wellness, and a little green magic! As part of the Capitol GO Project, PRDIO personnel participated in the PGAS Health and Wellness Hour through planting Red pepper (𝘊𝘢𝘱𝘴𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘮 𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘶𝘶𝘮) and eggplant (𝘚𝘰𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮 𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘢), fostering camaraderie, promoting wellness, and nurturing sustainable practices within the PGAS vicinity.

𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱𝗺𝗮𝗽: 𝗦𝗟𝗮𝗠 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀’ 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻!🤝🌱

Momentum is building for the SLaM 2023/146 Project—funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) and DOST–Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), as it successfully rolled out its Stakeholders’ Orientation in San Francisco, Prosperidad, and San Luis together with our committed farmer-cooperators from Upland Sustainable Agri-Forestry Development.

The core focus in the orientation was on Project 1: Scaling-Up of Yield and Profitability of Diverse Cropping Systems which aims to develop science-based fertilizer management programs to boost the yield and quality of cacao, coffee, banana, calamansi, and rice integrated within rubber-based systems.

This orientation was more than a meeting—it was a clear step forward. By strengthening soil fertility management and aligning local resources with research, we are paving the way for higher productivity and long-term sustainability for farmers in Agusan del Sur.

Led by Provincial Research Development and Innovation Office (PRDIO) in partnership with Provincial Agriculture and Veterinary Office (PAVO) and Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT), the journey toward smarter, science-driven farming continues!

-146Project

𝗗𝗼𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀, 𝗱𝗼𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗲! 🧪🎉

Two (2) of our cutie Laboratory Technicians are now officially board passer Chemical Technicians! 💯✨

From the lab to the oath-taking stage at Cagayan de Oro last Feb 24, 2026—dreams unlocked, futures secured! 🌟

Your PRDIO family is so proud of you both! ❤️

𝗟𝗗𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗗𝗦 𝗗𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗦 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗢 𝗦𝗢𝗜𝗟 𝗦𝗖𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗔𝗧 𝗔𝗚𝗨𝗦𝗔𝗡’𝗦 𝗕𝗜𝗢𝗚𝗘𝗢𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗬 𝗟𝗔𝗕! 🥼🧑‍🔬

Strengthening knowledge through innovation, members of the Local Development Planners League of Agusan del Sur (LDPLADS), Inc. joined a guided tour under the Provincial Research Development and Innovation Office. The activity offered participants firsthand exposure to the laboratory’s facilities and soil analysis processes, strengthening their appreciation of the province’s continuing efforts in research, innovation, and sustainable agricultural development.

Pisay Caraga visits AgSur Governor Cane and PRDIO Soil Laboratory
The Philippine Science High School - Caraga Region Campus (PSHS-CRC) in Butuan City paid a courtesy call to Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago “Santi” B. Cane Jr., and conducted a learning visit at the Provincial Research, Development, and Innovation Office (PRDIO) - Soil Laboratory on January 21, 2026.
The Pisay Caraga delegation, headed by Campus Director Engr. Ramil A. Sanchez, expressed their gratitude to the provincial government for its support, particularly during the 2024 massive province-wide Tulong Dunong for the National Competitive Examination (NCE) takers. Engr. Sanchez extended the school’s commendation to the province’s establishment of a state-of-the-art Soil Laboratory under the PRDIO, supported by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), the Australian Government, Griffith University, the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD). The Soil Laboratory highlights the province’s strong commitment to research and science-based agricultural innovation, serving as a training ground for Pisay scholars. This facility will benefit students and researchers and will inspire more youth to pursue careers in STEM, especially in agriculture.
PSHS-CRC lauds the efforts of Governor Cane, Congressman Adolph “Eddiebong” G. Plaza and Congressman Alfelito “Alfel” M. Bascug, for their advocacy in advancing science in agriculture, particularly in promoting soil research as a foundation for improving agricultural productivity in AgSur and beyond.
The visit also opened opportunities for collaboration in STEM education, capacity building, and agricultural research, particularly in soil science. Pisay Caraga engaged in discussions with Ms. Jedah Simugan, Chief of the Office of the Governor’s Education and Development Services, on strategies to increase the number of Pisay scholars and improve the province’s passing rate in the NCE through multi-stakeholder support. AgSur has more than 57 graduates and 51 current scholars in Pisay Caraga. Engr. Sanchez expressed Pisay Caraga’s interest to have Pisay scholars undergo Science Immersion Program (SIP) in the soil laboratory, as part of the school’s efforts to encourage more scholars to pursue careers in agriculture.
PSHS-CRC also thanked Governor Cane for his support of the 2026 PSHSS-WuLing Senior High School (Taiwan) International Student Exchange, by co-hosting with Sibagat Mayor Dr. Thelma Lamanilao during the Bagat Festival visit of the delegates. PSHS-CRC likewise extended Dr. Thrisha Fe R. Goloran, PRDIO Head, the Soil Laboratory staff, for the very informative laboratory tour.
The visit reinforced PSHS-CRC’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that advance research, innovation, and STEM excellence in the Caraga Region.