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Forester Cecille Q. Marquez of the Laboratory and Experimental Services Division (LESD) of ERDB took her oath as member of the Philippine Society for Microbiology, Inc. (PSM) on March 24, 2018 at the University of Santo Tomas (UST), Manila. The oath-taking ceremony was held after the symposium with the theme “Gearing up towards a globally competitive, accredited, and certified Microbiology”.

Fifty (52) stakeholders comprising representatives from the academe, the local government unit (LGU), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) in Baybay, Leyte participated in the activity dubbed as, “Client-based Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Technology Needs Assessment (TNA)” last March 23, 2018. Said TNA event conducted in separate locations in Baybay, Leyte, aimed to identify ENR technologies and prioritized them to address target stakeholders specific needs.

On April 25, 2018, a forum entitled “Pollution Absorbent Plant Species (PAPs) for Vertical/Urban Greening and Other ENR Technologies” was held at the Conference Hall, Barangay Lower Bicutan, Taguig City. The activity is part of the IEC Campaign for the Promotion of ENR Technologies for adoption of its stakeholders in urban areas. The forum was held to create awareness among stakeholders regarding the importance of the recommended-pollution-resistant plant species in urban greening and other technologies. Moreover, it aimed to determine the stakeholders’ information and training needs which will serve as basis in designing strategies for further technical assistance.

As part of the center’s mandate on the promotion of ENR technologies, UTHRC conducted an exhibit on recommended pollution-absorbent plant species (PAPS) for vertical/urban greening and other ENR related technologies on April 23-27, 2018 at TLC Park, Brgy. Lower Bicutan, Taguig City. The activity was undertaken to raise awareness and participation of stakeholders in the adoption of the technologies being promoted.

Thirty-four students (34) taking up Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of San Carlos (USC) in Cebu sought assistance from the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) in the conduct of vegetation and faunal assessment within the secondary forest of the Experimental Forest Station in Camp 7, Minglanilla, Cebu on February 11, 2018. Joining the biology class were two (2) students also from USC taking up Masters of Science in Biology major in Entomology. Prior to field work, students attended a brief orientation on the mandate of the ERDB-BCWERC including the safety measures in the conduct of field assessment.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Lake Sebu Upland Development Association (LaSUDA) for the establishment of a charcoal briquetting facility on April 12, 2018 at Brgy. Lamlahak, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. The MOA was sealed as part of the Bureau’s aim to eradicate Piper aduncum L. or commonly known as buyo-buyo within the Allah Valley Protected Landscape (AVPL) in Lake Sebu by utilizing it as a raw material in the production of charcoal briquettes which will provide a sustainable source of income for the members of LaSUDA.

In order to promote ERDB and reach out to a greater number of viewers, ERDB has launched its new facebook page on April 6, 2018 at the ERDB Auditorium. The new facebook page address is www.facebook.com/ERDB.gov.ph. The page will be using 2 hashtags: #ERDB BEST and #ERDB online. The new social media page will give the chance to the users to interact with ERDB with “likes” and “comments”.

The Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC) formally turned over its MSPL Clonal Nursery to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 1 (DENR-1) at Manleluag Spring Protected Landscape (MSPL), Brgy. Malabobo, Mangatarem, Pangasinan on February 23, 2018.

The Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC) participated in the training on Mangrove and Beach Forest Rehabilitation and Conservation: Convergence and Stock-Taking among Provincial Government – Environment and Natural Resources Officers (PG-ENROs) and Provincial Environment and Natural Resources (PENROs) which was held on February 5 – 9, 2018 at Hotel Stotsenberg, Clark, Pampanga. The training was initiated by the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) for Regions 1, 2, 3, 4A and CAR. WWRRC participants include Dr. Carlos S. Arida, Sr. (Center Head), Dr. Camilo C. Domingo, Jr. (Chief, Special Projects), Luciano C. Bato (Supervising SRS), Chita A. Hidalgo (SRS II), Darwin Ablang (SRS I) and Angelito G. Gagto (SRA).

In pursuant to Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order No. 2010-11requiring the establishment of Forest Tree Seed Centers in strategic locations in the country, the Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) has now started the operationalization of its Forest Tree Seed Center, which is named as the Northern Luzon Forest Tree Seed Center (NLFTSC).

Nine contestants from ERDB took the challenge in wearing gowns made from recyclable materials during the ERDB’s “Rampasura 2018” competition held on March 19, 2018 at the ERDB auditorium. The ERDBGADFPS (ERDB Gender and Development Focal Point System) headed by Dr. Marilyn Q. Landicho spearheaded the event as part of the activities for the month-long celebration of ERDB Women’s Month 2018. Dr. Lynlei L. Pintor conceptualized the activity.

The 2nd Extended Monthly Technical Seminar Series (MTSS) which is being facilitated by ERDB-TTD was held on February 26, 2018, at the ERDB auditorium. This activity serves as a venue in presenting research results/information on developed ENR technologies. Moreover, it provides a good opportunity for enhancing the researchers’ communication and presentation skills.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) in coordination with the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) organized a ‘Trainers Training on Vulnerability Assessment of Watersheds to Climate Change’ held at the Dohera Hotel in Mandaue City, Cebu last February 19-23, 2018. Eighteen (18) technical staff from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Regions 6, 7 and 8 participated in the activity, which comprised the DENR Regional Vulnerability Assessment (VA) team in the Visayas. The Luzon and Mindanao team also had a similar activity coordinated likewise by the ERDB and the assigned research centers.

The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) turned over the reins of protecting and managing the Babatngon Clonal Nursery Facilities to DENR Regional Office 8 in a turnover ceremony held at the Eastern Visayas Regional Tree Propagation Complex and Training Center (EVRTPCTC) in Busay, Babatngon, Leyte on February 22, 2018. The event was hosted by BCWERC headed by Center Head Dr. Alicia L. Lustica and attended in by DENR Region 8 Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services, For. Morakie P. Domanday. The two signed as witnesses in the Document of Transfer and Acceptance. Present in the event were BCWERC’s For. Emma Germano and staff, Office of the Regional NGP Coordinator headed by PENRO Ricardo Tomol, DENR-CDD Chief, Dr. Eugenia Bautista, and representatives of the Regional Public Affairs Office and General Services Section/Supply Unit. DENR Region 8 Regional Director, Atty. Crizaldy Barcelo and ERDB Director Dr. Henry Adornado, principal signatories of the Turnover Certificate will still affix their signatures to confirm legitimacy of the transfer.

"Smile and silence," these are the two words that Dr. Alicia L. Lustica emphasized in her message to the 34 senior high school students of Camp 7 National High School in Barangay Camp 7, Minglanilla, Cebu as they culminate their 30-day work immersion. The culminating program attended in by BCWERC staff, students, and teachers was held at the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) Training Hall at Camp 7, Minglanilla, Cebu on February 19, 2018.

BCWERC senior researcher, Reynaldo L. Lanuza, served as resource person during the Vulnerability Assessment Trainers Training Module Preparation Workshop at ERDB, College, Laguna on January 23-26, 2018. The training team composed of researchers from the ERDB Main Office and the Research Centers participated in the workshop.

The Mag-uugmad Foundation, Incorporated (MFI) and the Foundation for the Philippine Environment (FPE) in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 7 organized the Conservation Management Planning Workshop for the Southwestern Cebu Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) on January 11-12, 2018 at the Cebu Business Hotel, Cebu City. The said KBA covers the upland and forest areas of Alegria, Badian and Malabuyoc, including Matutinao Watershed.

The year 2017 marked the 30^th Anniversary of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB). The ERDB was created in June 1987 under the Executive Order 192 that merged the function of the then Forest Research Institute (FORI) and the National Mangrove Committee. Through the years, it has developed relevant researches and extension services, provided appropriate technology and information to enhance productivity and sustainability of natural resources and protection of the environment for the improvement of quality of life of the Filipinos.

The ERDB Senior Citizens sponsored the 1^st seminar on health empowerment “Fighting Sickness Natural and Herbal Ways” through its new focal person and Chief of the Administrative, Financial and Management Division (AFMD), Mr. Angelito B. Exconde. The seminar was held at the ERDB Auditorium, College, Laguna on February 19, 2018. It aimed to increase the level of awareness and knowledge of the ERDB employees on the different ways to prevent and protect themselves from different illnesses. A total of 173 employees composed of 72 males and 101 females attended this activity.

Through its research arm – Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) holds simultaneous Trainors’ Training on Vulnerability Assessment (VA) of Watersheds to Climate Change for a total of 45 regional VA focal on February 19-23, 2018 in Baguio City, Cebu City, and Davao City and on February 26 - March 2, 2018 in Laguna and Cagayan de Oro City. This activity is an offshoot of the recently concluded VA Technology Transfer Workshop and Strategic Planning last January 16-19, 2018 at the Bayview Park Hotel, Manila.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau convenes mandamus government agencies to determine all available information about the status of Manila Bay. The stock-taking review workshop was held last Feb 1-2, 2018 at Richmonde Hotel, Eastwood, Quezon City and was attended by representatives from 27 government agencies.

The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) Station in Region 8 led by Forester Emma Germano participated in the ‘Mangrove Tree Planting and Growing for Green City’ in Brgy. 83-A, Paraiso, San Jose, Tacloban City last February 4, 2018. The community-based mangrove planting event was sponsored by the Organization for Industrial, Spiritual and Cultural Advancement (OISCA)-Japan, in cooperation with the Brgy. Local Government of Paraiso and the Paraiso Tacloban Fisherfolks, Mangrove & Eco-Tourism Development Association (PAFMET) to commemorate the final year of OISCA Mangrove Rehabilitation Project in Tacloban City.

To mark the start of the new year, the 1^st ERDB’s Annual General Assembly Meeting for CY 2018 was held on January 11, 2018 at the ERDB Auditorium.

Dir. Henry A. Adornado, with the members of the ERDB’s Executive Committee and heads of Research Centers (RCs) were present in the meeting.

The UTHRC through its Technology Packaging and Promoting Unit conducted its 4^th Quarter ELTAG meeting for CY 2017 on Nov. 17, 2017 at the Public Library of Parañaque. Representative/s from the Environmental Livelihood Technology Advocates Group (ELTAG) of LGU-NCR participated in the meeting. A total of 20 (11 males and 9 females) participants representing 4 cities in Metro Manila comprised the attendees with 10 staff (2 males and 8 females) from UTHRC.

In line with its mandate in promoting and disseminating technologies for sustainable ENR Management, the ERDB-UTHRC held an educational tour cum hands-on training to increase the level of appreciation of the interested parties. On Oct. 20, 2017, UTHRC facilitated a one-day CBT hands-on training in response to the request of the DENR-NCR Conservation and Development Division (CDD) held in Brgy. Bagumbuhay, Project 4, Quezon City. The main objective of the training was to provide awareness on how to minimize waste and learn to convert waste into valuable products. Participants of the training included (15 males and 7 females) Barangay Secretary of all Barangays in Malabon City, CENRO Staff of Malabon City and Mr. Manuel Francisco, a private individual.

In line with the ERDB’s 30^th Anniversary Celebration, the Symposium on ENR Technology Adoption was conducted at the Air Quality Conference Room, Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), Visayas Avenue, Quezon City on December 11, 2017. This activity was attended by the DENR staff bureaus, ERDB and Research Centers’ employees and guests of stakeholders/adopters from different regions.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) thru the Technology Transfer Division (TTD) celebrated its 30th Anniversary Celebration with a series of activities on December 11-12, 2017. On December 11, an exhibit and a symposium were held at the DENR while on December 12, ERDB recognized its 30 ENR technology adopters with the theme “Teknolohiyang Makakalikasan: Handog ng DENR-ERDB para sa Mamamayan”. The activity aimed to showcase the Bureau’s successfully adopted technologies from 1987 to present by the different stakeholders/adopters from the seven research centers located all over the country.

In an effort to promote and inform the elderlies and the employees the rights and privileges under the law, the ERDB spearheaded the Seminar on the Senior Citizen’s Laws on December 7, 2017 at the ERDB Auditorium. The three laws are: Republic Act No. 6713 ( An Act Establishing a Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees), Republic Act No. 7432 (An Act to Maximize the Contribution of Senior Citizens to Nation Building, Grant Benefits and Special Privileges) and Republic Act No. 9994 (An Act Granting Additional Benefits and Privileges to Senior Citizens). A total of 161 employees composed of 68 males and 93 females attended this activity.

Laoag City, Ilocos Norte – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in cooperation with the National Organizing Council (NOC) concludes the week-long Forum on Urban Resilience to Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management Strategies. More than 150 participants coming from the countries of Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Philippines as well as Japan, India, and Bangladesh, convened together from December 4-7, 2017 to exchange information, experiences and strategies related to urban resiliency.

ASEAN member countries convene to talk about three important themes: urban resilience to climate change, disaster risk reduction, and attainment of green economy. More than 150 participants coming from the countries of Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Philippines as well as Japan, India, and Bangladesh gathered in Laoag City on December 5, 2017 for the Forum on Urban Resilience to Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Management Strategies.

In an effort to increase awareness on the importance of scientific publishing among DENR regional officials and personnel, Sylvatrop held the “Seminar on Publishing for Sylvatrop, the Technical Journal of Philippine Ecosystems and Natural Resources” in six regions across the country.

In celebration of the National Biotechnology Week for CY 2017, the ERDB team conducted the “Seminar on the Application of Biotechnology in the Environment” at the Kapayapaan National High School in Barangay Canlubang, Calamba City on November 09, 2017. For this year the theme of the NBW is “Bioteknolohiya para sa Kalikasan, Kalusugan, Kagandahan, Kabuhayan, at Kaunlaran Lamang ang Masa at Magsasaka sa Limang “K” ng Bioteknolohiya’.

A Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to validate the results of the project, Interphasing of Vulnerability Assessment and Carrying Capacity Determination of Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape (RSPL) was recently conducted by the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) last November 13, 2017 at Magsaysay Park, Bilar, Bohol.

To mark its 30^th anniversary celebration, ERDB has prepared activities for the 2-day event.

On December 11, 2017, a ribbon cutting of the exhibit will be held at 8:45 AM at the DENR lobby. DENR Secretary Roy A. Cimatu will cut the ribbon during the opening of the exhibit. The exhibit will feature the history of ERDB from the time that it was established in 1976 up to present.

The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) recently conducted the ‘Year-End Assessment of Seed Production Area/Individual Plus Tree (SPA/IPT) Accomplishments for CY 2017’ at the Alpa City Suites, Mandaue City last November 8-10, 2017. The participants comprised of SPA Focal Persons and Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officers (PENROs) from the 16 provinces in the Visayas region.

Now on its 13^th year, the 2017 National Biotechnology Week (NBW) organizers sponsored the Forum on the Application of Biotechnology in the Environment at the Fisher Mall Expo Hall 3 in Quezon City.

Presidential Proclamation PP 1414 declares every last week of November as the National Biotechnology Week (NBW), This also signals the opening of the 13th National Biotechnology Week which was held on Nov. 20, 2017 at the Fisher Mall Expo Hall in Quezon City.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau conducted a three-day assessment of the BPDP being implemented by DENR of the Visayas Cluster (Regions 6,7 & 8) held at Seda Hotel, Iloilo City last October 24-26, 2017. The event was well participated in by representatives from the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC), different Regional Offices (ROs), Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Offices (PENROs), Community Environment and Natural Resources Offices (CENROs), and the partner stakeholders for the National Greening Program-Bamboo Plantation Development Project (NGP-BPDP), the People’s Organizations (POs), and Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs).

Situated in the century old Osmeña Reforestation Project (ORP) at Camp 7 Minglanilla, 15 kilometers from Cebu City is the Cebu Experimental Forest (CEF), currently supervised by the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB). This biodiversity-rich area offers opportunities for nature and ecotourism. However, ecotourism activities are relatively minimal due to inadequate infrastructures, insufficient marketing and promotional campaigns, and accessibility problems.

The ERDB researches particularly those in the forestry profession attended the Society of Filipino Foresters (SFF) 69^th National Conference at the SMX Convention Center in Lanang, Davao City on Oct. 19-21, 2017. For this year, the host region was the Society of Filipino Foresters, Inc. (SFFI) Davao Region Council with the theme “Forest is Life”.

The province of Samar, albeit abundant in natural resources teeming with wonders such as caves, falls, and river systems, remains disadvantaged and named as one of the poorest provinces in the country. It has vast amount of water but ironically, many of its people are still mired in poverty and for years are struggling with supplies of potable water. These are the sentiments of Samar’s top officials, Governor Sharee Ann Tan who is musing over why progress in Samar has been so slow compared to smaller provinces in the country whose economies are expanding.

As part of the National Biotechnology Week (NBW) celebration in November, the ERDB through the Technology Transfer Division conducted a capacity building on Hi-Q Vam 1 for high school students from Grades 7, 8, 9 and 12 on Nov. 7, 2017 at the audiovisual room of the Felicisimo San Luis National High School in Sta. Cruz, Laguna.

The Seminar on Congenital Abnormalities of Motor Function or Cerebral Palsy was spearheaded by the ERDB Senior Citizens held at the ERDB Auditorium, College, Laguna on October 19, 2017. It aimed to increase the level of awareness of the ERDB’s employees of their knowledge on Cerebral Palsy and how to protect related sicknesses or illnesses. A total of 90 employees composed of 30 males and 60 females attended this activity.

Out of the sixteen (16) research papers under the Natural/Biological research category that were presented during the 27th Regional Symposium on Research and Development Highlights of the Western Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research Development and Consortium (WESVAARRDEC), the research paper entitled “Biodiversity Profiling and Carrying Capacity Determination of Priority Nature-based Ecotourism Areas in Gigantes Group of Islands, Carles, Iloilo” by Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, Dr. Emmelyn D. Peñaranda, Ms. Lovejoy V. Tejido which was presented by Ms. Dinah P. Favila, landed 1st place in the research presentation and 3rd place in the poster competition. The symposium was held at the Research Building of West Visayas State University, La Paz, Iloilo City on August 25, 2017.

The WESVAARRDEC FIESTA 2017 (Western Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium – Farmers and Industry Encounters through Science and Technology) was held at the Municipality of Cabatuan, Province of Iloilo on August 21-24, 2017. This year’s theme is “Advancing Science and Technology towards Inclusive Growth (ASTIG) in Region 6”. The DOST-PCAARRD’s FIESTA is an event-based promotional modality that aims to convey the message of abundance and prosperity in the agricultural industry science and technology (S&T). As a community affair, FIESTA engaged various stakeholders to create linkages, partnerships and opportunities. The four-day event aims to showcase the top R&D accomplishments of the consortium member institutions (CMIs) from 2012 to 2017 and likewise to introduce and/or sell their S&T products and/or banner commodities. Specifically, it highlights the four banner commodities in Region 6 which are as follows, Mango, Darag Native Chicken, Bamboo and Muscovado Sugar.

Construction of new facilities and renovation of existing ones in the Los Baños Experiment Station (LBES) have been conducted last November 2016 and were finished on April 2017. Said facilities include the tree house, view deck, office building, modern “kubo”, central nursery, wild pig enclosure, two satellite nurseries, and three concrete bridges. Be that as it may, LBES still gets dark during the night due to lack of electricity.

The ERDB once again joined the traditional parade to celebrate the 99th UPLB Loyalty Day and Alumni Homecoming last October 10, 2017. With the theme, “UPLB Alumni: Creating Innovative Change for a More Competitive Philippine Agriculture”, the ERDB contingent came in with green umbrellas.

Recognizing the importance of protecting and preserving the Wawa Dam and the Pamitinan Protected Landscape, a bamboo planting activity was organized by Fr. Benigno P. Beltran on Oct. 4, 2017 in Brgy. San Rafael, Rodriguez, Rizal. The activity aimed to plant bamboo along the riverbanks of Pamitinan Protected Landscape (PPL) in order to minimize soil erosion and as well as provide livelihood opportunities to communities in the area in the future.

Thirty-four participants (25 males and 9 females) from the LGUs and POs of Real, Infanta and General Nakar (REINA), Quezon participated in the “Training cum hands-on demonstration on clonal propagation techniques and the Hi-Q VAM 1” on September 20-22, 2017 at the ERDB , College, Laguna. The training or the Capacity building of ERDB Clients is one of the activities under the ENR Technology Extension project of the program “Client-based Technology Transfer and Extension Services for Environment and Natural Resources (ENR)”.

In an effort to promote youth engagement and to enhance the young minds’ awareness, knowledge and skills in environmental protection as they are believed to be the backbone of the nation, the Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC) facilitated a 2-day training on bamboo and forest trees clonal propagation on September 28-29, 2017 at MDARRC Research Station 1 in Amas, Kidapawan City, Cotabato.

Trees provide products and services necessary for human existence and survival. However, many of the trees are subjected to stress factors and are often neglected especially those century - old trees which could have historical and cultural values. If not checked earlier, defects in trees could turn into menace. Health assessment and rehabilitation are important to extend tree life and bring back its beauty and form.

The Technology Transfer Division (TTD) of the ERDB spearheaded the conduct of the 2017 Workshop on Client-Based Technology Transfer of ENR Technologies last September 11-15, 2017 at Splash Mountain Resort, Los Banos, Laguna.

The activity aims to come up with an extension and communication strategy that explores the use of new, innovative, and participatory methods and techniques in coming up with communication initiatives that are based on the actual needs, opportunities, and constraints of the stakeholders in rural communities.

A 5-day training titled “Training-Workshop on Outcomes-Based Research Monitoring and Evaluation of Industry Strategic S&T Programs/Projects (ISPs)” was held at the DOST-PCAARRD Innovation and Technology Center, Los Baños, Laguna on 4-8 September 2017. Ms. Janine F. Cortiguerra of the ERDB-Laboratory and Experimental Services Division (LESD) attended the said training which was hosted by the DOST-PCAARRD. The overall objective of the training-workshop was to deepen the skills and improve the practices of stakeholders in managing outcomes-based M&E in ISPs/R&D programs and projects.

In order to disseminate and increase awareness on the threats of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) to the environment and natural resources (ENR), food and national security, the Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) conducted a Regional Technology Forum on September 27, 2017. An exhibit which showcased the different IAS through posters was likewise installed to provide information about IAS.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) in coordination with the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) conducted a ‘Trainer’s Training on the Production of Quality Planting Materials (PQPM) for the Enhanced National Greening Program (E-NGP) last September 11-15, 2017 at the Marbezen Inn and Multi-Purpose Hall in Poblacion Sur, Carmen and at the Bohol Island State University (BISU) in Bilar, Bohol. The event was organized in preparation for the turn-over of responsibility in the management and operations of the clonal nurseries and seed production areas, from the ERDB to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Provincial Environment and Natural Resource (PENR) regional and field offices. Training participants were focal persons of the Seed Production Area (SPA) and NGP staff of the participating Regional and field offices of the DENR Visayas cluster, comprising DENR Regions 6, 7, 8 and the Negros Island Region (NIR). ERDB and BCWERC officials and staff were also present to fully support the goal of said event.

The 20^th Meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Working Group on Forest Product Development (AWG-FPD) and related meetings were held in Marriott Hotel, Putrajaya, Malaysia last July 24-29, 2017. The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau’s (ERDB) OIC-Assistant Director, Dr. Bighani M. Manipula, in behalf of the Director Henry A. Adornado, attended the Philippine delegation. He represented the Country Progress Report on Herbal and Medicinal Plants (HMP) in the Philippines pertaining to the Research and Development activities, production and marketing of HMP Products, involvement of private sectors, and conservation initiatives on HMP.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau -Main Office and its Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC) in collaboration with the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) conducted tree surgery at the MMSU campus in Batac City, Ilocos Norte during the tree health assessment of the gall-diseased agoho trees along the pathways of the Administration Building.

The Laboratory and Experimental Services Division (LESD) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) aims to have a State-of-the-Art laboratory facilities with ISO 9001 accreditation. AT present, ERDB has ten (10) existing laboratories which include Botany Laboratory cum Herbarium, Chemistry, Entomology, Forest Molecular, Microbiology, Pathology, Seed, Soils, Tissue Culture and Zoology Laboratory. Part of the activities of the different laboratories under the project titled “Quality Development and Management Project for Laboratory Services in Support to RDE Programs, Activities and Projects of ERDB Main Office and Research Centers” of the program titled “Sustainability of Laboratory and Experimental/Demonstration Services in Support to RDE Programs, Activities and Projects of ERDB Main Office and Research Centers” of LESD is to cross visit other research laboratory facilities to gather information and improve its existing operation and facilities.

Science Immersion Program (SIP) is one of the educational programs of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System which primarily aims to increase the awareness and knowledge of the scholars on Science and Technology (S&T) and provide them opportunities to interact and learn directly through internship and mentorship from individuals involved in S&T such as scientists, engineers, researchers and technologists in various academic and research institutions.

In line with the 402th Foundation Anniversary Celebration of Los Baños, ERDB joined the parade held on September 15, 2017 at the Old Municipal Covered Court, Barangay Baybayin, Los Baños, Laguna This year’s theme is “Los Baños: Mananatiling Matatag sa Hamon ng Makabagong Panahon ”.

Seventy-five (75) ERDB employees participated in the said activity. The different barangays of the municipality, government and non-government agencies, students from different schools and universities/colleges and organizations also joined the parade. The parade started at 6 o’clock in the morning from Olivarez Town Mall to the Ecological Park of Los Baños.

Manila, Philippines – With more than two hundred participants from Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, along with partners from USA, UK, India, and Bangladesh, the 2^nd ASEAN Mangrove Congress commenced on September 5, 2017 at the Forbes Hall of Conrad Hotel in Pasay City.

The second gathering of ASEAN researchers, government officials, policy makers, NGOs, and other environment managers aims to enhance public awareness on current pressing issues, impacts and threats to mangroves such as climate change. The event is spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (DENR-ERDB) with funding support from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

The Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC) conducted an In-House Review of On-going and Completed Projects/Studies on July 5-6, 2017 at Molave Hotel, Tagum City, Davao del Norte to evaluate all on-going and recently completed projects/studies of the Center which was attended by its twenty-one technical and support staff.

Children with disabilities from SPED Center, Baguio City visited the Learning Ecopark for Advocating Resources and Nature (LEARN) Ecopark in celebration of the 39th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week on July 17-23, 2017. The visit was made possible through the joint effort and guidance of DENR-CAR and the Watersheds and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC). A total of 22 hearing and learning-impaired students (14 males and 8 females) were welcomed at the research center.

The month of July is commemorated as National Disaster Consciousness Month, reframed recently as the National Disaster Resiliency Month. This year’s celebration observes the theme, “Kamalayan sa Kahandaan, Katumbas ay Kaligtasan”.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) in its support for this year’s disaster consciousness advocacy theme organized a day-long learning event on fire and disaster risk preparedness and management for BCWERC personnel last July 28, 2017 at the DENR-7 Conference Hall, Banilad, Mandaue City. The event, designed to the needs of its employees aims to educate the BCWERC staff on the basic knowledge as well as provide important tips on how to prepare, manage, and respond during fire, earthquakes, and other hazards. The essence is to promote awareness on the natural and anthropogenic hazards and to disseminate information on the procedures or measures to be undertaken to address and reduce the adverse effects of such hazards.

As part of the Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center’s (MDARRC) initiative to widen its scope and to capacitate its technical personnel in the project implementation which focuses on the generation and transfer of technologies to rehabilitate mined-out and degraded areas, the Center visited three mining sites in Claver, Surigao del Norte on July 18-22, 2017. The activity was also in accordance with the Center’s effort to provide first-hand observation of the mining sites and know the current condition of the mining environment that will serve as inputs in developing appropriate Research, Development and Extension (RDE) activities and proposals for mined-out areas.

The Los Baños Science Community (LBSC) conducted the techno forum titled “Maka-kalikasang Talakayan tungo sa Sustenableng Supply ng Tubig sa Los Baños” on August 3, 2017 at the W. Dar Hall in PCAARRD, Los Baños, Laguna.

The LBSC Techno Forum is one of the yearly activities of the LBSC which aims to increase the awareness of the Los Baños constituents on selected topics on the environment.

ERDB won anew an award from the Los Baños Science Community Foundation Inc. (LBSCFI). This time the ERDB received the F. O. Tesoro Technology Transfer Award through its Hi-Q Vam 1 technology which is a biofertilizer which has wide application for agricultural, horticultural, mangrove and forest species. The inventor of the technology is Dr. Evangeline T. Castillo, retired Supervising Science Research Specialist of ERDB with Ms. Carmelita Mojica, Senior Science Research Specialist of ERDB who continued doing research on the said technology.

The PARRFI R and D Award Research Category was given to the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) on the “Iron and Zinc Biofortification Project in Indica Rice”.

It was a Saturday morning when the newly-appointed DENR Secretary Roy A. Cimatu made his first official visit to the ERDB office on July 29, 2017. Sec. Cimatu was warmly welcomed by ERDB Director Henry A. Adornado as well as the members of the ERDB Executive Committee, ERDB Employees’ Association and all the permanent and contractual employees.

Secretary Cimatu was accompanied by Undersecretary for Administration, Finance, Human Resource and Knowledge and Information Systems, Atty. Ernesto D. Adobo, Jr.; OIC Undersecretary for Field Operations and Staff Bureaus, Marlo D. Mendoza; Undersecretary for Climate Change Service, Atty. Ana Liza R. Teh; Undersecretary Demetrio Ignacio, Jr., Assistant Secretary for Policy and Planning, Corazon C. Davis; Assistant Secretary for Field Operations and Staff Bureaus, Nonita S. Caguioa; Biodiversity and Management Bureau (BMB) Director Mundita Lim, and Forest Management Bureau (FMB) Assistant Director Mayumi Quintos-Natividad and Director Rolando Castro.

The Department of Science and Technology Region- IV will be having the Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) with the theme, “Science for the People: S&T in Harmony with Biodiversity,” on August 2-4, 2017 in Los Baños, Laguna. This year’s Regional STW will feature back to back activities with the Los Baños Science Community Foundation, Inc. (LBSCFI) Syensaya dubbed as the Los Baños Science Festival.

Major part of the celebration is Syensaya’s Wonderama Exhibit, an interactive urban, marine, agriculture and environment related S&T exhibits. This will be located at the Copeland Gymnasium, University of the Philippines, Los Baños and is open to public during the entire duration of the celebration.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) of the Republic of the Philippines will host the 2^nd ASEAN Mangrove Congress on September 4-8, 2017 at the Conrad Hotel, Manila, Philippines. The congress aims to strengthen mangrove research and development in the ASEAN region and enhance inter-agency and inter-sectoral coordination at the regional and international levels. ERDB sees this opportunity to convene researchers and environment managers to strengthen the region‘s technical and institutional capacities towards sustainable mangrove management in the face of climate change.

Once again the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) joined the Philippine Science Community together with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in celebrating the 2017 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) on July 11, 2017 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. This year’s theme is “Science for the People”.

The celebration served as an opportunity for the public to understand how science and technology can help in generating livelihood opportunities especially in the countryside.

To show their strong support to Cebu’s various environmental advocacies, the Cebu Garden Club (CGC) recently collaborated with the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) to provide its members relevant information on recent environmental issues, thus enable them to actively promote greener and healthier environments inside and outside their home.

In line with the IEC campaign for the promotion of ENR technologies, UTHRC conducted an activity entitled “Forum on Recommended Pollution-Absorbent Plant Species for Vertical/Urban Greening” on July 14, 2017 at the Conference Hall, Brgy. Sucat, Muntinlupa City. The said activity is envisioned to raise awareness on ENR technologies among stakeholders vis-à-vis an avenue for priming a harmonious working relationship with prospective technology adopters in the region. Participants on the said forum include Barangay Sucat officials, officials of Senior Citizen Group and Homeowners’ Association, and youth leaders. The UTHRC staff conducts trainings not only on the above technology but also on other ENR technologies related to livelihood options i.e. recycling, vermicomposting, charcoal briquetting and seedling propagation through clonal technology.

Forest guards, extension officers, and technical personnel from the Cebu Provincial Environment and Natural Resource Office (PENRO) and the Community Environment and Natural Resource Office (CENRO) in Cebu and Argao participated in the ‘Integrated Pest and Disease Management, Prevention and Control Training’ last June 22, 201 at Camp 7, Minglanilla, Cebu. Said training spearheaded by PENRO Cebu aimed to capacitate field personnel in the guidelines on surveillance, monitoring, prevention and control, and reporting of forest pests.

Youth personnel from ERDB as well as residents and youth groups in selected barangays engaged in a clean-up initiative on June 23, 2017 in Laguna de Bay, Barangay San Antonio, Bay, Laguna. After which, a brief lecture on Solid Waste Management was delivered by For. Raymund Mercurio, the DENR R4A Youth Coordinator. Residents were grateful for the conduct of the said activity. Accordingly, proper waste management should be enhanced in the area and nearby barangays in order to create and maintain a healthier environment for the community.

The activity was conducted as part of the celebration of Philippine Environment Month every June. For the year, more will be done thru the ERDB Youth Program to boost awareness and practices of the youth and their communities towards a green environment. For. Ma. Kristina P. Orpia (OD) and Ms. Donnabel A. Elpedes (FERD); photos by Mr. Randel V. Aragones

As part of the ERDB Youth program and internship process, 20 college students taking different courses underwent the Youth for Environment Schools (YES) Campaign and Ecotour on July 13, 2017. Through the YES Campaign and Ecotour, they had a glimpse of the Bureau’s wide array of research endeavors in all ecosystems including the forests, coastal zone, freshwater and marine, and urban. They were also equipped with information on the youth environmental advocacies of the DENR, biotechnology, and gender roles in research. Further, they toured at the ERDB’s bamboo and rattan gallery showcasing various uses of these non-timber forest products. From these activities, the ERDB Youth Program Coordinators and the Human Resource Development sought to stimulate their interest on environment-related researches as future environmental stewards of the country.  Donnabel A. Elpedes (FERD) and For. Ma. Kristina P. Orpia (OD); photos by Mr. Adriane Patrick G. Villegas

In pursuit to capacitate the ERDB technical personnel in managing laboratory wastes, the LESD-LSS conducted a two-day training on lab waste management at the ERDB Auditorium, College, Laguna last 21-22 June 2017. The training aimed to introduce the participants to the proper disposal of laboratory reagents and consumables, familiarize with current undertakings on the process of treating and disposal of the said wastes by transport system and labelling of waste containers and visit at the ERDB Material Recovery Facilities (MRF). Twenty (20) participants from the ERDB Main Office and six (6) research centers who devote most of their time in the laboratory attended the said training.

The Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) presented a poster during the R&D Congress on Sustainable Urbanization in the Course of ASEAN Economic Integration held at Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Metro Manila, Philippines on June 26-30, 2017. The poster is entitled “Urban Development in Baguio City, Philippines”. The poster was highlighted with a discussion on the socio-economic and physical transformation of Baguio City, the research method used, result of the analysis done on the information gathered and recommendations made to further improve urbanization in Baguio City.

ERDB-WWRC hosted the CLAARRDEC (Region 3 Consortium) Experts’ Pool 2nd Quarter Meeting on June 2, 2017 at the WWRRC Conference Room, Loakan Road, Baguio City. It was the Center’s turn to host the meeting for the consortium after five (5) years since a hosting rotation agreement was made among the Consortium’s Member Institutions (CMIs). The meeting was participated by 13 CMIs from state colleges and universities in Region 3, different government agencies namely DAR, BFAR, PCC, LGUs of Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Aurora, PhilRice, NIA, and WWRC-ERDB.

Urbanization, economy, and environment – these three words practically sum up why the Department of Environment and Natural Resources thru the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau organized the three-day Research and Development (R and D) Congress on Sustainable Urbanization in the course of ASEAN Economic Integration from June 27-29, 2017 at the Sofitel Hotel in Pasay City.

In line with the Environment Month Celebration in June, some employees who are senior citizens and PWDs participated in the learning event conducted on June 16, 2017 at the Pagbilao Mangrove Experimental Forest (PMEF) in Pagbilao, Quezon.

Conventional practices employed in the establishment and maintenance of seed source sites in the Visayas regions were the highlight of the discussion during the recently conducted the ‘Training on Tree Stand Improvement; Seed Collection, Handling, Storage, and Documentation of Seed Source Activities’ last June 7-9, 2017 at the Hotel Asia, Cebu City. The participants dominantly composed of the sixteen (16) focal persons from the seed source sites either as Seed Production Area (SPA) or Individual Plus Trees (IPTs) of the Visayas provinces together with the regional seed source coordinators are expected to boost and ensure that quality seeds are collected, handled, and stored to ensure the production of quality planting materials.

Thirty - (30) technical personnel from the Community and Environment and Natural Resource Offices (CENROs) and the Provincial Environment and Natural Resource Office (PENRO) in Talibon and Tagbilaran, Bohol participated in the ‘Learning Event on the Analysis of Watershed Characterization Data and Vulnerability Assessment of Loboc Watershed.’ Said activity held last May 31 - June 2, 2017 at the Reynas Haven Hotel in Tagbilaran City, Bohol aimed at providing technical assistance to the Community Development Units of PENRO/CENRO Bohol for the proper implementation of the project, “Watershed Characterization and Vulnerability Assessment of Loboc Watershed.”

Standard procedures in the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of mangrove projects under the Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Project (MBFDP) and the Expanded - National Greening Program (E-NGP) were discussed during a levelling-off meeting held in Iloilo City and Guimaras Island, Iloilo last May 26-27, 2017. The meeting involved key officials of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), who have expressed desire to see how mangrove rehabilitation is being done in the field.

This year’s World Environment Day (WED) themed, ‘Connecting People to Nature,’ encourages us to go outdoors, appreciate the beauty and importance of nature, and take forward the call to protect the earth. The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) took the challenge and launched the Cebu Experimental Forest Community Recycled Waste Product (CEFCRWP) Display Center last June 7, 2017 at the Old Forest Research Institute (FORI) building in Camp-7, Minglanilla, Cebu.

ERDB took part in putting up an exhibit in the celebration of 119^th Independence Day held in Rizal Park on June 10-12, 2017. Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Project (MBFDP) was featured in the exhibit. Posters and different mangrove species were displayed and IEC materials were given away.

The Laboratory and Experimental Services Division (LESD) particularly the Laboratory Service Section (LSS) organized the Training on Bird Identification and Survey Techniques on May 29 to June 1, 2017 to capacitate the ERDB technical personnel in the field of avifauna. Twenty (20) representatives participated from the ERDB Main Office technical divisions and Regional Centers. The purpose of the training is to introduce the participants to the basic concepts on Ornithology, enhance skills in common bird identification by sight and sound on field and conduct hands -on training on methods of field collection techniques and data recording.

In line with the project of the Technology Transfer Division (TTD) on Client-based Technology Transfer and Extension Services for ENR Management, under Activity 2 – Capacity Building of ERDB Clients, monitoring activities were conducted to ensure that ERDB’s introduced technologies were properly disseminated and utilized by stakeholders. As such, 2 Technology Transfer Division (TTD) staff composed of Ms. Ma. Vienna O. Austria and Ms. Lea B. Domasig visited the Taganito HPAL Nickel Corporation in Barangay Taganito, Claver, Surigao del Norte on May 23-25, 2017. THPAL processes millions of tons of low-grade nickel ore using high pressure acid leach (HPAL) technology. The team monitored the progress of the action plan prepared by 5 technical staff of the company during the “Training cum hands-on demonstration on Clonal Propagation and Hi-Q VAM 1” on May 18-20, 2016 at ERDB, Los Baños, Laguna.

Despite their busy schedule on different research activities, the ERDB players took time to join the DENR Inter-Bureau Sportsfest 2017 and placed second in overall rankings. The said sportsfest was held on May 8 to June 9 in the DENR Central Office. Other awards received by ERDB players were: champion in badminton, 2nd place in men’s basketball and women’s volleyball, 3^rd place in men’s volleyball, women’s table tennis, and darts, 4^th place in men’s table tennis and 6^th place in chess.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) and Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) took part on the training course for regulatory officers titled “Biotechnology 101: Basic Biotechnology Tools for Crop/Animal Improvement” sponsored by the DA-BPO and ISAAA in the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PRRI) at Maligaya, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija last April 17-21, 2017. The 4-day training aims to enhance understanding on the status of modern biotechnology application and its tools and techniques specifically on genetic engineering which is the subject in the DA-DENR-DILG-DOH-DOST Joint Department Circular on plants and plant products derived from modern biotechnology. The participants in the training were comprised of regulatory officers coming from the five departments involved in the implementation of the JDC.

The Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC-ERDB) kicked off the celebration of the Environment Month with its successful inauguration of the Forest Tree Seed Center building on June 1, 2017 at its office in Loakan Road, Baguio City.

A total of twelve (12) Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) studies - seven (7) ongoing and five (5) completed were presented and evaluated during the ‘Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) Annual In-House Review of the On-Going and Completed Research Studies for CY 2017.’ Papers presented include topics on Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Project; Vulnerability and Carrying Capacity Assessment of Priority Nature-Based Ecotourism Areas; Biodiversity Profiling; Biodiversity Conservation towards Ecotourism; Clonal Nursery – Production of Quality Planting Materials (PQPM); Maintenance of Seed Production Areas and Individual Plus Trees; and other RDE studies which address BCWERC’s areas of excellence on biodiversity, coastal, wetlands, and the promotion of ecotourism.

A ‘Local Tour Guiding Training’ was recently organized last May 18, 2017 to capacitate twenty three (23) members of the People’s Organizations (POs) in Olango Island, Lapulapu City, Cebu particularly, the San Vicente Fisherfolks Association (SVFAI); the Olango Island Eco-Tour Association (OIETA); and the San Vicente Kapunungan sa mga Kababaihan (SVK). The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Region 7 facilitated the said training which was held at the Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary (OIWS) Nature Center in Lapulapu City. The activity primarily aimed to enhance the capability of the People’s Organization (POs) in the conduct of ecotourism activities for its sustainability development and livelihood community in the sanctuary.

During the 17^th Senate Congress on its first regular plenary session held on May 31, 2017, the Senate Bill No. 1478 otherwise known as Philippine Bamboo Industry Development Act or PHILBIDA was introduced to the Honorable members of the Senate by way of a sponsorship speech delivered by Honorable Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri. The privilege speech in power point presentation of Senator Zubiri reported the Committee report No. 116 on Trade and Industry where he serves as the Chairperson. In his speech, he highlighted the characteristics of bamboo as a wonder grass, poor man’s timber, and a grass of hope. He also emphasized the fast growth performance of bamboo.

The Sylvatrop Editorial Board, in coordination with DENR CAR and Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC), spearheaded the conduct of the first seminar for publishing in Sylvatrop Journal. The activity was participated by 102 participants coming from different offices of DENR CAR (e.g, PENRO and CENRO offices, and CAR EMB, RPAO, HRDS) and State Universities.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) through the Technology Transfer Division (TTD) in coordination with the Local Government Unit of General Nakar, Quezon designed a capability building cum hands-on demonstration on the three (3) ENR technologies for the livelihood of the local community of Batangan, General Nakar. These trainings were: (a) Refresher Course on Bamboo Propagation, Plantation Establishment and Management; (b) A Sustainable Agroforestry Technologies; (c) Clonal Propagation of Indigenous Forest Tree Species - Non-Misting Technology. This activity was done on May 16 to 18, 2017 at the Brgy Chapel, Purok Waling-Waling in Barangay Batangan, General Nakar, Quezon.

“Working with ERDB made me realize that tree planting or tree growing is not enough, it is actually tree caring,” this was the statement shared by Lt. Gen. Ferdinand F. Quidilla, the commander of the Southern Luzon Command (SoLCom), Philippine Army during their visit in ERDB last May 15, 2017. Lt. Gen. Quidilla has been a part of the previous reforestation project of ERDB. According to the commanding officer, he found the science of taking care of the environment in the Bureau.

On May 10-12, 2017, a 3-day workshop entitled “Capacity Building Writeshop for Junior Researchers” was held at the CRD Conference Room, CS Annex, Adamson University, Manila. Such workshop was undertaken to enhance and upgrade the capacity of the participants in terms of quality research proposal development, packaging and presentation. This activity was sponsored by the Metropolitan Manila Industry and Energy Research and Development Consortium (MMIERDC) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

In line with the BCWERC-Technology Transfer and Extension Unit’s target for the second quarter, a training was conducted last May 10 and 11, 2017 at the Bantayan Beach Resort in Barangay Tindog, Medellin, Cebu. Resource persons of the said training were the Regional Director of DENR 7 who is an expert on mangrove, Ms. Emma M. Melana, the MBFDP consultant of PENRO Cebu who is also a former ERDS staff, Mr. Solon Bagalihog and the Center Head, Dr. Alicia L. Lustica.

The Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC) conducted a one-day training on bamboo and macro-somatic clonal propagation on May 3, 2017 at MDARRC Research Station 1, Amas, Kidapawan City. The training was conducted to capacitate stakeholders from the municipalities of 1^st congressional district of Cotabato Province, namely: Pigcawayan, Alamada, Libungan, Midsayap, Aleosan, Pikit and Banisilan (PALMA PB), to support their thrust in the conservation and rehabilitation of Libungan-Alamada Watershed through nursery establishment and tree growing activities.

In an effort to determine the stakeholders’ level of awareness and knowledge about invasive alien species (IAS) specifically on buyo-buyo (Piper aduncum L.) in the area, the Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC) conducted the Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and Stakeholders’ Forum on April 19, 2017 at Brgy. Lamlahak, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. The said activity was in consonance with the center’s aim to increase awareness on the threats of IAS especially the buyo-buyo (locally known as ‘sguya unge’ by the T’bolis) to the biodiversity in the area which causes depletion of native flora and fauna and low crop productivity among farmers.

The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC), with support from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) in Region 7 and the University of San Jose Recoletos (USJR) conducted a capacitation training on solid waste technologies at the BCWERC Training Center in Camp 7, Minglanilla, Cebu last April 19-20, 2017.

As part of the continuing effort of UTHRC to capacitate clients on ENR related technologies, the office conducted the “Appreciation Tour cum Hands-on Training on Plant Propagation” among the seven (7) participants (3 males, 4 females) from Bgy. NBBS, Navotas City on April 27, 2017. The activity consisted of two parts. The 1st part was a field visit at the BMB project area on vertical planting structure planted with recommended pollution-absorbent plant species located inside the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center, Quezon City.

In support to the DENR’s vision for a clean and healthy environment, the ERDB –UTHRC implements projects/studies which would help rehabilitate polluted waterways and wastes reservoirs in selected urban areas. In CY 2015, UTHRC applied the phytoremediation scheme thru the establishment of floating gardens. Different plant species i.e pennywort, bandera española, and marian were planted in these floating gardens.

Dr. Alicia Lustica, Center Head of the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) urged local government units (LGUs) to implement firmly responsible tourism to save and protect tourist destinations in the country. Said statement came after learning that sacks of garbage were collected during the Isla Music Festival in Santa Fe Bantayan Island, northernmost island of Cebu Province last April 12-15, 2017.

In line with the Earth Day Celebration with the theme “Environmental and Climate Literacy”, the ERDB joined the activity held on April 22, 2017 at the La Mesa Eco Park, Quezon City.

Secretary Regina Paz “Gina” L. Lopez of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) visited the municipality of Buluan in Maguindanao on April 5, 2017 for the launching of the Sustainable Integrated Area Development (SIAD) initiatives or known as Peace Site for the Liguasan (Ligawasan) Marsh area. Also with the Party of Sec. Lopez were Undesecretary Deosita Andot of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP); DENR Undersecretary Sylvia Ordoñez; Director Theresa Mundita S. Lim of the DENR-Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) and Director Henry A. Adornado of the DENR-Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB).

DENR Secretary Gina Lopez has designated Dr. Bighani M. Manipula as its new ERDB OIC Assistant Director through DENR Special Order No. 2017-229 effective March 03, 2017.

On March 24, 2017, the UTHRC facilitated a one (1) - day Orientation on Pag - IBIG Program held at the UTHRC Office, Quezon City. The activity was undertaken in line with the ERDB Senior Citizen’s Committee program and to disseminate to the ERDB personnel the benefits of the Pag-IBIG Fund being offered.

In support to the implemention of the Enhanced National Greening Progam (ENGP) in the Province of Abra, one technical staff of WWRRC in the person of Mr. Diosdado A. Estigoy was tapped as resource person and facilitator during the hands-on training on bamboo propagation conducted at PENRO Abra on February 21-22, 2017. The training was attended by all the PENRO’s regular and contractual staff involved in the ENGP, which include among others NGP site Coordinators, Extension Officers, Assisting Professionals, Area Managers, as well as PENRO/CENRO Management staff. Various PO representatives such as officers and members also participated in the said training.

Two (2) staff from the Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) were trained on the use of a new model for strategic planning during the strategy building planning workshop sponsored by the Highland Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium (HAARDEC) held at the Grey Sand Resort and Beach in San Fabian, Pangasinan on February 15-18, 2017. This new model is called SOAR- Strength Opportunities Aspirations and Results. It was used in the crafting of a strategic plan for HAARDEC for CY 2017-2022.

In relation to the enhanced-National Greening Program (e-NGP), the Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC) extended technical assistance to DENR–PENRO Nueva Ecija through the conduct of trainings on Bamboo Propagation, Plantation Establishment and Management. The training was initiated by PENRO Nueva Ecija wherein two staff of WWRRC were invited as resource speakers during the trainings held at the Science City of Muñoz and Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija on February 6-7 and February 14-15, 2017, respectively. The participants were leaders of People’s Organization (PO), Local Government Units (LGU) and extension officers of NGP in the province. A total of 30 participants attended the training held in Munoz while 41 participants in Gabaldon Nueva Ecija, mostly male at 73 % and ages ranged from 20 years - 66 years old.

ERDB Director Henry A. Adornado paid a visit to the Watershed and Water Resources Research Center’s (WWRRC) ongoing WWRRC building rehabilitation project and its facilities on March 10, 2017 in Baguio City. Director Adornado, who is also the national coordinator of the nationwide bamboo project of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), inspected the Philippine Bambusetum and the germplasm bank of indigenous and exotic bamboo species which was established in 1988.

Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) was recognized by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) during the 2017 Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management (PRIME-HRM) last March 8, 2017 at Novotel Hotel in Quezon City. The event was organized by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to recognize outstanding offices in their effort to institutionalize meritocracy and excellence in Human Resources Management. There were more than 170 government offices that participated and were evaluated by the CSC. Only 63 offices were qualified for the award.

In observance of the Women’s Month 2017, the ERDB has lined up a series of activities for the whole month of March through the ERDB’s Gender and Development Focal Point System (GADFPS) headed by Dr. Marilyn Q. Landicho. The national theme for this year’s celebration is “We Make Change Work for Women” which aims to give due recognition to the contributions of Filipino women in our society.

Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has put up a tree seed center (TSC) within the 123-hectare Cebu Experimental Forest (CEF) in Minglanilla, Cebu to ramp up support for long term reforestation until 2028.

This TSC is the first in Visayas and follows setting up of a similar TSC in Bislig, Surigao del Sur. Both were established by the ERDB, the staff bureau of the DENR.

The Climate Change Commission, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (DENR-ERDB), together with the Environment and Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) held the two-day Symposium on Mangroves for Climate-Adaptive and Resilient Communities from December 19-20, 2016 at the Waterfront Hotel in Cebu City.

This climate change event involved around 200 participants which consist of representatives from the local government units, civil societies, People’s Organization, private entities, government offices, mangrove experts and the academe, mostly from the Visayan Region.

In celebration of its 29th year anniversary this 16^th of December 2016, the ERDB held its annual event for all its employees. Representatives from the 6 ERDB regional centers flew in to Los Baños to join in all the festivities held at the Botanic Gardens in UPLB.

Father Luis Tolentino, parish priest of the St. Therese Chapel in UPLB led everyone in a prayer of blessing for the anniversary celebration during the Thanksgiving Mass at the ERDB Auditorium.

The Planning Management and Information Services Unit – Management Information Services (PMISU-MIS) Section conducted an orientation-workshop to facilitate the rollout of the newer version of the ERDB Document Tracking System (DTS) on December 12, 2016 at the ERDB auditorium.

A total of 29 participants from the ERDB Main Office attended the one-day activity. The workshop aimed to inform the participants on the new features of the updated version of the Document Tracking System, which is being used by selected staff in transferring and submitting documents among the different units/divisions in the office.

True to its tagline “Bringing MDARRC Closer to the Community”, a technical assistance on the application, adoption and management of ENR technologies dubbed as “MDARRC Sa Barangay” was conducted by the Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC) on November 23, 2016 at Datu Agod, Antipas, Cotabato. The activity was part of the Center’s unique strategy in reaching out various clienteles under the Pro-Active Response Towards Nurturing Environmental Relations: A Barangay Outreach Project Based on Community Needs and Demands (PARTNER-BOND) Project to promote the adoption of technologies identified by the partner barangays.

The hard labor of IP communities bore fruit as the 246.2-ha land of Fort Ramon Magsaysay Military Reservation (FRMMR) in Nueva Ecija is successfully planted with indigenous forest tree species.

A total of 86 workers benefitted from this project initiated by the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), 7th Infantry Division (ID), Philippine Army, and Bacao Ecological Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BESTI) in compliance with EO 26, the implementation of the National Greening Program (NGP) whose implementation is extended until 2028 under EO 193. It is a means to attain biodiversity conservation and protection, poverty reduction, and climate change mitigation and adaptation.This initiative is also in line with DENR Secretary Regina Lopez’s vision of expanded and enhanced NGP to create meaningful impact to the lives of communities through involvement of different civil societies, strengthening food security, and provision of livelihood. After completing the plantation establishment, the ERDB thru BESTI will encourage the IP communities to do intercropping to support their food requirement.

The ERDB National Greening Program (NGP) conducted its year-end assessment of SUCs’ performance as partners in the production of quality planting materials. The event was held on Dec. 6-9, 2016 at the Southern Luzon State University in Lucban, Quezon. It also highlighted three activities that include launching of exhibit and symposium, presentation of Annual Accomplishments of partner SUCs and open forum.

Special awards were given to 10 selected SUCs for their highly satisfactory performance in the production of Quality Planting Materials (QPM) from 2011-2016 through cloning and conventional methods. The five universities that produced the most number of cloned planting materials were: Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU), University of Southern Mindanao (USM), Ramon Magsaysay Technological University (RMTU), Southern Luzon State University (SLSU), and Southern Phillippine Agribusiness, Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST).

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) participated in the opening of the 12th National Biotechnology Week (NBW) celebration on November 21 at the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) in Quezon City. The theme of the weeklong celebration was Bioteknolohiya: Kaagapay sa Pangkalahatang Kaunlaran. Yakapin ang pagbabago, Biotek na tayo!”.

In connection with the celebration of the 12th National Biotechnology Week (NBW), the ERDB conducted the “Forum on phytoremediation of mined –out areas” which was held at the Bureau of Soil and Water Management (BSWM) Auditorium on Nov. 23, 2016. The annual weeklong celebration had the theme “Yakapin ang Pagbabago, Biotek na Tayo, Bioteknolohiya: Kaagapay sa Pangkalahatang Kaunlaran”.

The capacity building cum writeshop on ENR technology assessment and post evaluation of transferred technologies was conducted on November 8 – 11, 2016 at the Boy Scouts of the Philippines Hotel, College, Laguna. The said activity was attended by the ERDB-Main and Research Centers technical staff. The workshop aimed to: (1) provide participants with the basic framework of technology assessment, monitoring, and post-evaluation procedure; (2) introduce participants to basic tools and methods of technology assessment, monitoring, and evaluation; and (3) assist participants in writing technology characterization and post-evaluation reports. The expected .outputs were: (a) enhanced competency of ERDB staff on the use of tools and methods of technology assessment, monitoring and evaluation; (b) enhanced technology assessment, monitoring and evaluation tools; and (c) technology characterization report and post-evaluation reports of transferred ENR technologies.

The local government unit (LGU) of Luisiana, Laguna visited the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) and its facilities on November 4, 2016 as part of the Bureau’s research and development extension activities. The study tour was also conducted as a preliminary activity for the PARTER BOND project in collaboration with the municipality.

In an attempt to reach a wider audience specifically, the young generation, the ERDB exhibited the Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Project (MBFDP) in the Market Market Mall, Taguig City on November 8, 2016. The event was part of the Clean Air Act Concert spearheaded by the Earthday Jam Foundation, Inc. in partnership with the Ayala Malls, Market Market and the DENR. Its target audience was the youth to encourage them in protecting and preserving the environment.

The ERDB staff headed by Mr. Russel A. Olan together with Dr. Aleli M. Luna, retired ERDB-UFERD Chief attended the 2^nd Annual Roselle Festival 2016 held on November 13, 2016 at the Shumei Natural Agriculture Farm in Barangay Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal.

Capacity building under the PARTNER BOND activity is a strategy being undertaken in relation to the promotion/dissemination of ENR technology. Relatively, a group called ENR Livelihood Advocates Group (ELTAG) composed of representatives from the Local Government Units of Metro Manila was organized in CY 2012 by then ERDS-NCR and quarterly meetings are being regularly spearheaded. The ELTAG is a partner of DENR in the advocacy campaign towards promotion of ENR technology. On November 16, 2016, the UTHRC-TPPU facilitates the 4th ELTAG Quarterly Meeting held at Valenzuela City Social Hall. Attendees of the activity include a total of fifteen (15) representatives from the seven (7) cities of Metro Manila. The participants are composed of 5 males and 10 females.

To further promote the Bureau and its technologies, ERDB joined the Philippine Army 2nd Infantry Division’s Oktoberfest celebration. The event was held in Camp Capinpin, Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal on October 26-28, 2016.

As part of the commitment of the Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC) to disseminate and promote technologies to address issues on mining and land degradation and to provide relevant information about these technologies, a Regional Technology Forum on Degraded Areas Rehabilitation was conducted on October 14, 2016 at JC Leisure and Business Place, Lanao, Kidapawan City, Cotabato.

The Phillippine-Wealth Accounting and the Valuation of Ecosystems Services (Phil-WAVES) conducted a seminar on October 18, 2016 at the ERDB Auditorium.

Forty participants attended the seminar which were composed of the members of the ERDB Executive Committee, technical staff representative from the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), World Bank and Wageningen University in Netherlands.

As part of the 2016 Elderly Filipino Week celebration, the ERDB conducted the seminar titled “Pagmamahal, Respeto ng Kabataan Kaligayan ng Nakakatanda” on October 17, 2016 at the ERDB Auditorium.

The resource speaker was Pastor Gavino” Vïns” Santiago of Bagong Ilog Christian Fellowship in Pasig City. Pastor Santiago, a transgender testified how God worked on him. He cited the Bible verse on the book of Ephesians verse 6:1 “Children, obey your parents in the Lord for this is right ; Honor your father and mother” (which is the first commandment with a promise); so that it may go well with you may live long in the land, Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up on the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

Around one hundred ERDB employees participated in the Seminar on “Knowledge on the GSIS Benefits and other Related Concerns for the New Employees and Pre-Retirement Age” conducted on August 22, 2016 at the ERDB Auditorium.

The first part of the seminar was the “New Employees Orientation” which was discussed by Mr. Angelo E. Hombrebueno, a special insurance specialist. The participants were the new ERDB regular employees aged 54 and below. The seminar addressed some questions on GSIS membership, benefits, coverage, compilation and other concerns raised by the participants.

The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center Region 6, Cebu City celebrated victory after sending two participants namely: Jenny B. Lacorte and Lovejoy V. Tejido in the orientation on Statistics and ENR Statistical Quiz Contest conducted on October 17, 2016 at 9 o’clock in the morning at the DENR Activity Center.

Sustainable development making statistics count was the theme of the 13th National Convention on Statistics held on October 3-4, 2016 at the ISLA Ballroom of EDSA Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City. The convention was attended by more than a thousand participants from the national government, academe, private sector, and international community.

The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center through its Tacloban Research Station in Region 8 distributed IEC posters on Invasive Alien Species (IAS) to the concerned Local Government Units and Peoples Organizations in Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park in Burauen, Leyte last October 7, 2016.

As part of the celebration of the 31st founding anniversary of the Manila City Youth and Development Welfare Bureau (YDWB), a Nilad planting activity titled “NILAD KALINGA” was conducted on October 12, 2016 at the ASEAN Garden, Intramuros, Manila. It was an effort to propagate more Nilad plants in Manila and to relive its historic value to the city.

One hundred ten (110) UPLB alumni who are ERDB employees joined the loyalty day parade on Oct. 10, 2016 at the UPLB grounds.

The theme of this year’s celebration is “Rekindling the UPLB Spirit in the Service of Humanity”.  Execom members led by Asst. Director Antonio M. Daño and the ERDB UPLB graduates were in attendance during the parade.

Twenty-nine BS in Forestry students from the University of the Phillippines Los Baños (UPLB) were introduced to the different extension programs of the bureau on October 5, 2016 at the ERDB Auditorium. The group was led by Ms. Felisa L. Malabayabas, Faculty-in-Charge on the Forestry Extension course. The course aims to orient the students on the theories and practices in extension education as applied in forestry; and analysis of forest extension programs in the Phillippines.

In support to the LGU of Los Baños, twenty two (22) ERDB employees participated in the 13^th year of Pista ng Kapaligiran in Hen. Paciano Rizal Park on September 03, 2016. This year’s theme is “Tungkulin ng Bawat Mamamayan na Pangalagaan ang Kalikasan at Likas Yaman ng Bayan”.

The program was attended by LGU members of Los Baños headed by Hon. Mayor Caesar Perez, barangay captains from the barangays, senior citizens, students, teachers, Dep Ed , Sangguniang Barangay, market vendors and women’s brigade.

To validate the results of the Carrying Capacity Models before submission to ERDB, a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was conducted last Sept. 20-122, 2016 in Region VII, Central Visayas.

The FGD was participated in by the concerned stakeholders (PO Presidents, members and secretaries, tourism officers, APASU, DENR CENRO representatives and MLGU representatives) from the municipality of Sibulan, Negros Oriental and Anda, Bohol. Likewise, a total of 15 participants attended the FGD for the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park and 26 participants for the Lamanok Island Mystic Tour and Mangrove Tour.

In line with the development and scheduled roll-out of the information systems under the ENRIS (ENR Information System) Project of DENR, a 3-day orientation-workshop on ENR RDE Information System (ERDIS), ERDB Technology Generated Information System (ETGIS) and Monitoring and Evaluation System (M&E) was conducted on 31 August to 2 September 2016 at the ERDB Auditorium.

A total of 37 trainees from ERDB Main Office and Research Centers participated in the learning event sponsored by the DENR Central Office-Knowledge and Information Systems Service (KISS) and spearheaded by the Planning Management and Information Services Unit-Management Information System (PMISU-MIS). KISS and Pointwest Technology Corporation (PTC) representatives, headed by Director Bresilda M. Gervacio were present during the occasion. The PMISU-MIS staff served as trainers for the three information systems.

In line with the celebration of the Elderly Filipino Week with the theme “Pagmamahal at Respeto ng Nakababata, Nagpapaligaya sa Nakatatanda”, the ERDB joined the “Walk For Life 2016” held on October 1, 2016 at the SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City. This activity aimed to recognize the vital role of the elderly in the society and their contribution to nation-building. It also highlights awareness and promotes advocacy on elderly abuse prevention. The battle cry for this year is “All for Health Towards Health for All”.

The said activity was spearheaded by Department of Health (DOH). The different government agencies joined the parade. After the parade, a short program was conducted.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) together with the 7th Infantry Division (ID) of the Philippine Army and Bacao Ecological Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BESTI) inked the tripartite agreement for the establishment of the 240-ha NGP plantation using indigenous forest tree species inside the Fort Ramon Magsaysay Military Reservation (FRMMR) on September 6, 2016.

The reforestation activity is in compliance with EO 26, the implementation of the National Greening Program (NGP). It is a means to attain biodiversity conservation and protection, poverty reduction, and climate change mitigation and adaptation.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) research team headed by Dr. Simplicia A. Pasicolan, Chief of the Urban Ecosystems Research Division (UERD) and the project staff composed of For. Wencelito P. Hintural, Ms. Jamella M. de Castro, Ms. Girlie H. Rueda and Ms. Jewel B. Labita was awarded the F.S. Pollisco Award during the LBSCFI (Los Baños Science Community Foundation Incorporated) Awarding Ceremonies and 2016 NSTW (National Science and Technology Week) closing activity. It was held on July 29, 2016 at the E. O. Tan Hall of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research Division - Department of Science and Technology (PCAARRD-DOST).

This year’s theme Is “Juan Science, One Nation”. The LBSCFI Outstanding R and D Awards gives due recognition to excellent research and development projects conducted in the community in support to national development.

Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella visited the ERDB’s Bamboo Plantation Project in Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija last August 8, 2016. He was accompanied by Lt. General Glorioso V. Miranda, Vice Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Phillippines (AFP); Dr. Henry A. Adornado, Director of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB); Forester Gregorio E. Santos, Jr, Project Coordinator of the DENR-DND (Department of Environment and Natural Resources- Department of National Defense) Bamboo Project; and Ms. Analyn Pasagdan, Technical staff of the project.

Before the visit, an initial briefing/coordination meeting was held at the Armed Forces of the Phillippines (AFP) Reserve Command Center in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. Secretary Abella immediately briefed the group on the purpose of the trip which is to assess the facilities of the 7^th Infantry Division to house the 2,000 drug users/drug dependents who have surrendered and presently undergoing rehabilitation.

The group visited the proposed housing site for drug dependents including the bamboo plantation. Secretary Abella was very impressed to see/witness the plantation especially in the area where cassava is intercropped with the giant bamboo (Gigantochloa asper). Likewise, he requested Director Adornado to look into the possibility of raising livestock (e.g free-range chicken) in the formulation of the Agroforestry Plan.

Technical assistance regarding basic processes and applications of tissue culture was provided at the ERDB Tissue Culture Laboratory under the Laboratory and Experimental Services Division (LESD) in June to July 2016. Participants involved were B.S. Biology and Forestry students from Southern Luzon State University (SLSU) and technical staff from Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC), Loakan, Baguio City.

The learning session aimed to impart to the participants knowledge and skills on plant tissue culture; provide participants hands-on experiences and practical exercises on plant tissue culture; and provide a venue for sharing of experiences and networking among participants and host institutions for developing collaborations in the future.

In line with the celebration of the 36^th Anniversary of the Christian School International (CSI) in Los Baños, Laguna, ERDB was invited to display an exhibit at the lobby of the Christian School International from August 1-5, 2016.

To make the affair more educational, the ERDB featured its technologies for the improvement of the students’ environmental awareness. Among the ERDB’s featured technologies were on mangrove, migratory birds and indigenous forest trees.

In line with the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau’s (ERDB) continuous program for the senior citizens, a forum on health and wellness for the elderly was conducted on July 18, 2016 at the ERDB auditorium.

ERDB Assistant Director Antonio M. Daño opened the program. He stressed the importance of conducting such activities for the wellness of the older employees of the Bureau.

Ms. Ma. Cristina L. Raymundo, Senior Health Program Officer from the Department of Health (DOH), served as the resource speaker of the forum which was attended by around 35 ERDB employees aged 50 and above. Ms. Raymundo, a nurse by profession, discussed about different national policies and programs for the senior citizens including health care, 20% discount for basic commodities and services, and PhilHealth benefits among others.

“One of the most significant tasks of a researcher is to disseminate relevant research findings and outputs to its intended clientele.” Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, Center Head of the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) said in a workshop conducted titled, “Training on Technical Writing and Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Materials Preparation” held at the Department of Education Ecotech Center in Cebu City last August 3-5, 2016.

Twenty (20) BCWERC researchers attended the activity which primarily aims to enhance the capability of participants in organizing well-written and relevant scientific articles on RDE projects and related activities.

The resource persons of the training were Ms. Liberty E. Asis and Ms. Adreana S. Remo, editors and science communication experts from the ERDB which is BCWERC’s mother unit. The topics were the: various techniques, pointers and approaches in technical, semi-technical and popular writing.

The best employee award under the Line Bureau Category given by DENR-CAR in July 18, 2016 during the culmination of the 29th Anniversary and Environment Month celebration was garnered by a technical personnel of the Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC). Forester Hipolito S. Baldo got the award in recognition of his exemplary performance in the execution of his duties and responsibilities, faithful compliance to office policies/directives and good relations with his superiors/peers. He has initiated innovations, not only in the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) of which he is an expert, but also in sharing his knowledge generously with clients. He is a well-loved WWRRC personnel, appreciated not only for his skills, but also for his kindness.

Apayao State College (ASC) and Kalinga State University (KSU) were among the guest awardees of DENR-CAR during the culmination of the 29^th DENR Anniversary and Environmental Month celebration held at the Training Hall, DENR-CAR compound at Gibraltar Road, Baguio City on July 18, 2016. The two SUCs were lauded for being committed partners of the Research Sector in the Production of Quality Planting Materials under the National Greening Program of the government for five years.

ASC NGP-PQPM Coordinator, Dr. David A. Rodolfo, received the Certificate of Award for ASC in behalf of ASC President Nieves C. Dacyon. A video presentation showed that ASC was a consistent and outstanding producer of quality planting materials and the highest producer of quality planting materials among all ERDB-WWRRC SUC partners region-wide (CAR) in CY 2014. ASC has also empowered communities in the locality through trainings of their PO-cooperators on nursery and plantation establishment.

Fifteen men and women vegetable growers in Cervantes, Ilocos Sur who are members of Barangay Malaya Farmers’ Association were trained on bamboo basket weaving and crafting in line with the livelihood training program of the DENR-R1 under the on-going Eco-Tourism development Project of the Bessang Pass aimed to capacitate stakeholders towards helping in the promotion of its ecotourism potential.

Bessang Pass which is an iconic landmark between the Tagudin-Cervantes road connecting the Municipality of Mankayan, Benguet and other parts of Mountain Province, is being visited by an average of 1,500 visitors per month. For. Biado, OIC-PASU of the protected area said “It is hoped that through the training, the PO will be able to develop and establish an alternative livelihood from bamboo weaving and crafting wherein their products will be displayed and sold at the Information Center of Bessang Pass”.

The National Capital Region as a global power city and premier center for finance and commerce has undergone developments that greatly affected its environment. One of the approaches to improve negative conditions or reduce recurring expenses is the adoption of Green Technology (GT) which is environmentally friendly. It is developed and used in such a way that it does not disturb our environment, otherwise, it helps to conserve natural resources. In line with the implementation of the study entitled “Adoption/Application of Green Technology to Brace Communities against Impacts of Urbanization in the National Capital Region” to determine the application of green technologies in different cities in NCR, a consultative meeting is conducted on July 28, 2016 at Icon Hotel in Quezon City.

The Chestnut-winged Cuckoo (Clamator coromandus), a rare migrant bird, was recorded in April 2016 in the little known Potipot Island, an island off the coast of Candelaria, Zambales. This species has a large range and stable population. It is found in China, Bangladesh. Burma. Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Phillippines, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh. However, in the Phillippines, previous records reveal that the bird species is widespread but rather rare.

The Chestnut-winged Cuckoo was sighted by Ms. Veronica Mercado, a bird watcher and a Science Research Analyst of the Urban Ecosystem Research Division, along with the research team led by Dr. Carmela Taguiam along with its members, Ms. Anne Lapie, and Mr.Rafael Sibal.

The theme “Greening the Future with QPM” stirred the National Greening Program-Production of Quality Planting Materials (NGP-PQPM) exhibit, symposium, and launching of the coffee table book at Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) on June 28-30.

Attended by almost 400 audience from the PSAU, partner State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), and ERDB and its Research Centers, the opening program, launching of the coffee table book, and symposium commenced on the 28th of June. The coffee table book also titled as Greening the Future with QPM showcases the rigors of the PQPM, an activity of the ERDB together with the DENR field offices and partner SUCs in support of the NGP. A glimpse of the coffee table book was manifested in the six galleries of the exhibit—barking up the right tree, rearing the trees of the future, give it a shot, united for forest conservation, it takes time, but it works, and defense against climate change—displayed at the PSAU multi-purpose center until the 30th of June.

The National Greening Program Operations Center (NGP OpCen) in partnership with the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) successfully conducted the 2nd Discussion on NGP with Partner SUCs for CY 2016 last 29 – 30 June 2016 at the PSAU Farmers Training Center.

It was participated by representatives from 23 SUCs wherein 4 University Presidents were present, one representative from Forest Management Bureau – NGP Central Office, ERDB research centers and ERDB officials and staff. The discussion’s main objective was to conduct a mid-year assessment of project implementation specifically the operations of clonal nurseries and facilities as well as the cloned seedling production performance of each SUC.

In line with the celebration of the Disaster Preparedness Consciousness Month from July 1-31, 2016, a one-day seminar on disaster preparedness was held on July 20, 2016 at the ERDB auditorium. This year’s theme is “Kahandaan at Pagtugon sa Sakuna Tungkulin ng Bawat Isa”.

A total of 318 participants attended the seminar from various divisions/units of ERDB. Representatives from the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity were also invited in the seminar.

ERDB Assistant Director, Dr. Antonio M. Daño gave the welcome remarks. He thanked the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) for giving the briefing on disaster preparedness. He encouraged everyone to participate in the simulation exercises during the seminar.

Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, Center Head of the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands, and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) recently met with the Regional Director of the Negros Island Region (NIR), Al O. Orolfo to discuss future collaborations on potential Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) projects that will focus largely on biodiversity conservation and protection. Negros Island supports a unique biodiversity that includes many endemic plants and animals, including wetlands and its rich biodiversity known to be the vanishing treasures, hence the need for immediate conservation action.

On June 24, 2016, Sylvatrop Associate Editors Ms. Liberty E. Asis and Ms. Adreana Santos-Remo urged students from the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) to publish their research outputs at Sylvatrop, The Technical Journal of Philippine Ecosystems and Natural Resources.

Sylvatrop Editors took part during the 4th Face-to-Face of the Master of Public Management-Rural Development of the National Convergence Initiative for Sustainable Development held at SEARSOLIN, Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro City. More than 80 scholars coming from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Agricultural Reform (DAR), and Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) attended the said event.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) held a week-long celebration of Sylvatrop’s 40^th anniversary at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) central office on June 6-9, 2016 with the theme, “Sylvatrop: 40 years of sharing scientific knowledge on environment and natural resources.”

The week-long event kicked off with the opening of Sylvatrop’s exhibit led by DENR Secretary Ramon Paje at the DENR lobby. The exhibit featured history, facts, and the people behind Sylvatrop. All Sylvatrop issues from 1976 to present were displayed for the visitors to read and get to know the journal. In his speech, Secretary Paje highlighted Sylvatrop as part of the 28 out of the 777 journals that are listed in the Thomson Reuters master list. “It is the Sylvatrop that somehow chronicles the development and environment sector and we really have to support it. I hope other sectors would do the same, other sectors would continue to develop the science in their respective sectors, just like what ERDB is doing,” said Secretary Paje.

In celebration of the World Environment Day and Philippine Environment Month 2016, ERDB participated in an exhibit on combating biodiversity loss and beating climate change centering on the theme “Go Wild for Life. Combat Biodiversity Loss #GreenEnvironmentGawingForever” on June 6-8, 2016 at the Activity Center of Robinsons Galleria, Mandaluyong City. The World Environment Day is celebrated every 5th of June. The event was hosted by the Environment and Management Bureau.

During the opening program, Executive Director of ACB Atty. Roberto V. Oliva, NGP Region 4A Coordinator Dr. Antonio C. Manila, ERDB Director Dr. Henry Adornado, and Undersecretary for Environment and International Environmental Affairs Atty. Jonas R. Leones imparted messages on the importance of biodiversity in the country and the challenges of climate change.

A team of 4 researchers from the Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI) composed of Ms. Mildred M. Fidel, Chief, Technical Services Division, Ms. Grecelda A. Eusebio, Chief, Technology Business Development Section (TBDS), Ms. Wency H. Carmelo, Senior Science Research Specialist, Technology Innovation Division and Mr. Carl Anthony O. Lantican, Science Research Analyst, visited Talim Island on June 21, 2016. The team was accompanied by the ERDB project team headed by Ms. Vienna O. Austria.

The purpose of the visit was to conduct a site assessment of the area prior to the extension of technical assistance in the design of a bamboo stick dryer in the community.

With the theme “Emerging Fields in Mycology”, the Mycological Society of the Philippines, Inc. (MSP) in collaboration with the Batangas State University (BSU) held its 18th Annual Scientific Meeting and Symposium on 14 April 2016 at BSU, Rizal Avenue, Extension, Batangas City. This was participated by Ms. Cynthia Marquez and Forester Cecille Marquez of the Coastal Zone and Freshwater Ecosystems Division (CZFERD) and Laboratory and Experimental Services Division (LESD), respectively.

The MSP annual scientific and symposium focused on topics in the new fields in mycology and fungi in extreme environments. Various researchers from different organizations shared their expertise. Likewise, it held the undergraduate thesis competition through the Tricia H. Quimio (THQ) Best Undergraduate Thesis Award, the Best Paper and Poster Competition and the non-competing paper presentations.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs) celebrated the annual Philippine Environment Month on June 24, which also happened to be the 445^th celebration of Araw ng Maynila.

The group went to the Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden to visit the nilad planted by the ERDB team in 2000 along the banks of the lagoon inside the zoo. Ms. Veronica O. Sinohin, ERDB senior citizens focal person, also gave a brief lecture on the plant’s significance in the history of Manila, including the fact that the city’s name was coined from the Filipino terms “may nilad” due to the plant’s diversity in the city.

The University of Santo Thomas (UST) in cooperation with the International Society of Limnology (SIL) hosted the 1st Philippine Symposium on Freshwater Biodiversity and Ecosystems (PSFBE) last June 7-10 2016 at the Buenaventura Garcia, Paredes, OP Building, UST, Manila. Participants were a mix of young professionals, academicians and researchers from government and non-government institutions that deal with freshwater biodiversity and ecosystems research. The ERDB represented by Ms. Cynthia C. Marquez and Ms. Yves Christian Cabillon of the Coastal Zone and Freshwater Ecosystems Research Division (CZFERD) also took part in the symposium by presenting a poster titled “Phytoplankton as indicators of water quality of three river systems in NCR and Southern Luzon, Philippines.”

The course was composed of lectures in the plenary and parallel sessions, round table discussions, graduate student oral competition and poster viewing, and also covered diverse topics including Conservation Management and Policy, Philippine Freshwater Ecosystems, Freshwater Ecosystems of Tropical Asia/Taxonomy and Systematics and Biodiversity in Taal Volcano Protected Landscape.

In line with the proposed implementation of the Integrated Pest Management development in forest nurseries and plantations, the ERDB spearheaded the conduct of a 4-day training on “Standardization of IPM activities and deliverables” on June 11-16, 2016 at the ERDB Auditorium.

ERDB Director Henry A. Adornado who graced the opening program along with other key officials of the Research Bureau stated that the training is imperative considering the country’s problem on pest infestations because of monoculture forest plantations like that of the Benguet pine in Baguio City.

Small islands were of high risks on the effects brought by climate change. Sea level rise, coastal erosion and extreme climatic events such as tsunamis and typhoons are the most prevalent in small islands and coastal areas. The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) of the ERDB is geared towards enhancing resilience of wetlands and coastal areas to support biodiversity conservation and ecotourism development in the Visayas Region. The Center is implementing a program entitled “GIS-Based Resource Inventory, Vulnerability Assessment and Impacts of Climate Change to Small Islands with Ecotourism Potentials in the Visayas Region”.

For this year, the BCWERC in Region 6, identified Malalison Island in Culasi, Antique as its project site. Malalison Island has been a destination for family outings mostly by the locals due to its blue-pristine water and spectacular sceneries of sea and mountain views. However, it is now making its name as a prime tourist destination in the Western Visayas Region, it was after some media-men, bloggers and volunteers discovered the alluring view of the island during relief operations after typhoon Haiyan devastated the area. Aside from the rewarding view, the Island is a sanctuary for different flora and fauna endemic in the area such as, wild ferns, tropical sundews, wild pineapple and pitcher plants. Truly, Malalison Island has great potential to be the next sought-after ecotourism destination.

Top officials from Cebu and Los Baños, Laguna converged at Camp 7, Minglanilla, Cebu last June 1, 2016 to mark the centennial celebration of the Osmeña Reforestation Project (ORP). Gracing the event were Cebu’s top government officials led by Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III; Cebu City mayor-elect, Tomas R. Osmeña; and Minglanilla Mayor, Elanito Peña.

The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) hosted the said event in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Region 7. DENR 7 Regional Director, Isabelo Montejo and BCWERC Center Head, Dr. Alicia L. Lustica with the support of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB). Assistant Director, Dr. Antonio M. Daño, led the celebration which was participated in by more than 150 participants comprising of DENR 7, EMB, MGB, BCWERC staff, business partners, stakeholders, and representatives from various government agencies, NGOs, and People’s Organizations (POs).

The study “Biodiversity Profiling and Carrying Capacity Determination of Priority Ecotourism Areas in Visayas Region”, conducted an underwater assessment of Gigantes Island, Carles, Iloilo on April 20-29, 2016. The assessment aims to establish baseline information of the marine ecosystem or underwater resources of the designated areas after the occurrence of typhoon “Yolanda” and detect changes in its condition.

Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, BCWERC Center Head and Project Leader of the abovementioned project, directed the BCWERC Region 7 licensed divers namely, Ms. Hanna Lou Castillo, For. Celeste Rallos, For. Gerry Saludo III, and Mr. Jon Alfonso Horvidalla to conduct the assessment. With the technical supervision of Mr. Excalibur Seterra also a licensed diver and at the same time an aquaculturist of the Iloilo Provincial Agriculture Office spearheaded the assessment together with the assistance of Ms. Lovejoy Tejido of BCWERC 6, Mr. Larry Joie Alag of Philippine Life Saving and Mr. Julieto Manggasang, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer of Carles.

Director Henry A. Adornado of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) and President Honorio M. Soriano of the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the joint implementation of the study entitled “Application of Propagation Protocols Developed in the Growth and Survival of Superior Indigenous Forest Tree Species” under the ERDB’s Genetic improvement Project last April 22, 2016 at Abe’s Farm and Resort in Magalang, Pampanga.

The ERDB delegation was composed of Dr. Carlos S. Arida, Sr, Center Head of the Water and Watershed Resources Research Center (WWRRC); Forester Kristine Marie S. Amatus, the Study Leader; Forester Romana A. Mauricio and Mrs. Fe Cortiguerra. For PSAU, the MOA signing was witnessed by Dr. Darwin E. Totaan, the Project Coordinator for the study, Auditor Melvic T. Parel and Accountant Maria Pia D. Dinio.

As the DENR rationalization plan was fully implemented, the revised functions of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau and its newly created centers put the bureau into direct dealings with its clients. A one-day Symposium on RA 6969 otherwise known as the “Toxic Substances and Hazardous Wastes and Nuclear Wastes Control Act of 1990 and other related information is an effective activity to have a deeper understanding of the salient features of the said law. Notably, RA 6969 is the main focus of the newly created Urban, Toxic Substances and Hazardous Wastes Research Center (UTHRC). Hence, an IEC activity was conducted last May 19, 2016.

The Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC) in cooperation with the Provincial Science and Technology Center (PSTC)- Davao del Norte of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Region XI conducted a training-workshop on Nursery Management and Tree Propagation for the members of Davao del Norte Person with Disability Association (DAVNOR PWD Association) on April 11-14, 2016 at MDARRC Research Station 1, Amas, Kidapawan City, Cotabato.

There were thirty (30) participants from DAVNOR PWD Association who attended the training-workshop. They were accompanied by the staff of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Davao del Norte.

Trees provide great benefits to people that is the reason why health assessment and rehabilitation are important to extend tree life to bring back its beauty and form. Thus, the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) team composed of Forester Cecille Quiambao-Marquez, Mr. Jose Aniciete, Mr. Jay Senson, Mr. Gilbert Buenaobra and Mr. Jester Ralph Mangilin of the Laboratory and Experimental Services Division conducted an initial tree risk assessment and rehabilitation to record the health and condition of eight trees from February 22 to March 10, 2016 within the ERDB premises.

Based on ocular inspection, 62.5% of the target trees have normal overall health status; while 37.5% of the target trees have low overall health status. Presence of ants, termites, scorpion, earthworms, beetles, and epiphytes were also observed.

As a strategy to generate an updated database on the implementation of solid waste management being undertaken both by government and private sectors in resettlement areas in Metro Manila, a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was undertaken. The Urban, Toxic Substances and Hazardous Wastes Research Center (UTHRC) held the said activity on March 18, 2016 in Disciplina Village, Brgy. Ugong, Valenzuela City. Thirty-six residents consisting of 12 males and 24 females from the relocation area actively participated in the discussion. Ecological Solid Waste Management Practices within the area have been discussed as part of the IEC campaign on RA 9003. Salient features of RA 9003 form part of the agenda in the FGD. Engineer Teresa S. Salanguit presented the said topic.

In the end, observation during the discussion clearly defined the strength and weaknesses, opportunities and threats with regard to the implementation of the solid waste management project in the area. Hence, results are vital inputs in the establishment of a baseline information for the study entitled “Settlement Processes and Determination of ESWM Schemes in Selected Resettlement Areas in NCR” which is currently being implemented by the UTHRC. UTHRC

Twelve librarians and administrative staff from the Manila City Library and its branches visited the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) on April 14, 2016. The visit was conducted as a part of the Bureau’s ongoing activity, “Lakbay Aral sa ERDB”.

            Technology Transfer Division (TTD) Chief Ms. Veronica Sinohin welcomed the participants upon their arrival. She also briefed them on the Bureau’s structure, functions, and activities. Likewise, ERDB Librarian Ms. Maricel Villaruel presented her lecture titled “ERDB Library: Moving Forward to the World of Research” that discussed the organization and management of the ERDB Special Library, as well as its services and publications.

            The participants also toured around the ERDB facilities such as the Library, Circulation Unit, Bamboo and Rattan Gallery, and the Research and Development Demonstration Zone (RDZ) for Clonal Propagation and Charcoal Briquetting Technology. They also visited the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) Main Library upon prior coordination.

On March 16, 2016, the personnel from UTHRC (Urban, Toxic and Hazardous Waste Research Center) and other DENR offices such as DENR-NCR, FMB attended a one-day ERDB Multipurpose Cooperative pre-membership seminar at the UTHRC Office located at the DENR-NCR Compound, North Avenue, Quezon City.

The seminar aimed to orient and encourage employees of the Research Center to join and enjoy the benefits of being a cooperative member. Seventeen UTHRC staff attended the orientation-seminar. Ms. Alyn Altoveros, Cooperative Manager, Ms. Bienvenida Sanchez, Chairman of the Board and Board of Directors, Ms. Alice Calderon and Mr. Manolito Sy, of the said cooperative conducted the seminar.

In line with the IEC campaign of the Urban, Toxic Substances and Hazardous Wastes Research Center (UTHRC), hands-on training is being used as one of the strategies for technology promotion. In response to the request of the members of the Metro Agri Community Association (MACA), Quezon City, Technology Packaging and Promotion Unit (TPPU - UTHRC) facilitated a Hands-on Training on Charcoal Briquetting Technology (CBT) at the SAMAKAT CBT Project, Taguig City on April 2, 2016. The Samahan ng May Kapansanan (SAMAKAT) sa Taguig continues to adopt the Charcoal Briquetting Technology (CBT) project in Brgy. Bagong Kalsada, Taguig City. Hence, it is now being used as the demo area for the said project.

A total of 11 members of the Metro Agri Community Association were given an actual training on the said technology. Mr. Mario Galvez, President of the SAMAKAT gave a short lecture before the actual demo of the process. On the other hand, Ms. Salvacion Samson, a UTHRC staff showed the necessary equipment that is used in the production of briquettes as well as the proper setting up of the equipment. After the actual demonstration, Ms. Diana Gernandiso, President of the MACA pledged her support to the CBT project. Accordingly, she believes that CBT is an outstanding practice to support the recycling process under the solid waste management. UTHRC

As part of the IEC campaign for technology promotion, the Technology Transfer and Packaging Unit of the Urban, Toxic Substances and Hazardous Wastes Research Center (TTPU-UTHRC) conducted a Forum on ENR Technologies on March 10, 2016 at the Cocoon Boutique Hotel, Quezon City.

A total of 43 representatives from the 13 cities in Metro Manila attended the occasion. Five (5) ENR technologies were presented on Charcoal Briquetting, Recycling, Composting, Nursery Establishment, Clonal Propagation Technique and Vertical Planting. Several considerations on technology adoption were discussed in the open forum. Queries include the technical aspects like maintenance in the establishment of a vertical planting within the LRT-MRT areas specifically on water consumption.

Spearheaded by Dr. Carlos S. Arida, WWRRC Center Head, employees plant seedlings every Friday to meet the 43,000 cloned seedlings target by the center under the National Greening Program (NGP). It is estimated that each person can pot an average of 500 seedlings a day. With this, the target seedlings are expected to be ready for delivery within the third quarter.

Each employee carries pots to the seedling beds, prepares the planting materials, waters the seedlings, removes the weeds, and helps in other nursery activities. These weekly nursery activities created opportunities for work relationships to be built and developed as everyone is mobilized towards a common goal.

WWRRC participated in the three-day exhibit of Ramon Magsaysay Technological University (RMTU) Botolan Campus at RMTU Main Campus in Iba, Zambales on February 10-12. This is in celebration of the RMTU’s 18th Founding Anniversary with the theme “#RMTU@18: Embracing Changes, Transcending Challenges, Pursuing Greatness”.

The WWRRC exhibited the projects of ERDB-DENR and Natural Resources Development Corporation (NRDC) on Clonal Nursery and Mycorrhiza. Different information, education, and communication (EC) materials produced and packaged by WWRRC were also displayed and distributed to students and teachers. This is to increase the awareness on caring for our environment and importance of our natural resources. A total of 700 IEC materials were distributed during the 3-day exhibit. Among the IEC materials were foldable fans, flyers on bamboo, climate change, nipa, Seed Production Area (SPA), waste management and vulnerability assessment.

A seminar was conducted on April 1, 2016 for the ERDB’s newly appointed and contractual employees. Mrs. Veronica O. Sinohin, Chief of the Technology transfer Division (TTD) gave a brief introduction of ERDB including its brief history, functions, ERDB organizational structure, functions of the ERDB main office and the regional centers.

ERDB Director Dr. Henry A. Adornado, gave the opening message during the seminar while Mr. Angelito A. Exconde, Chief of the Administration, Finance and Management Division (AFMD) introduced the speaker.

Technical and support staff of the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) have recently convened to review the status of all Research, Development and Extension (RDE) projects including updates on financial status and administrative operations last March 17-19, 2016 at the Samar Island Natural Park (SINP), Paranas, Samar. The activity called as “1st Quarter BCWERC Learning Event on RDE Operations and Management for 2016” was primarily organized to re-evaluate the center’s various RDE activities and to harmonize strategies and approaches utilized in project implementation.

The event highlighted the presentation of RDE reports, which focused on the 1st quarter updates, issues, and concerns. OIC, Center Head of BCWERC, Dr. Alicia L. Lustica emphasized the need to provide researchers an avenue to share, discuss, obtain additional inputs, and evaluate research methodologies based on the initial status of RDE project implementation for the 1^st Quarter of 2016.

Eight (8) BCWERC technical staff from the project “Benchmarking and Impact Assessment of Mangrove and Beach Forest Rehabilitation in Disaster-Affected Areas” revisited the benchmarked site in Lava Island, Barangay Day-as, Cordova last March 8-9, 2016 to monitor any significant improvement from last year’s findings as well as to gather additional data on the condition of the mangrove ecosystem.

Three transect lines were established during the assessment having seaward, middle-ward and landward plots where six (6) mangrove species were identified such as: bakauan bato (Rhizophora stylosa), bakauan lalaki (Rhizophora apiculata), bungalon (Avicennia marina), pagatpat (Sonneratia alba), tabigi (Xylocarpus granatum), and malatangal (Ceriops decandra). Among the six species, R. stylosa was found to be dominant in each transect and also has a greater stem diameter than all other mangrove species in the area. In general, the mangrove forest is healthy as there are only few occurrences of individual trees with pest and disease. Macrobenthic organisms dwelling below the water column which are visible to the naked eye were also collected and mostly composed of gastropods (snails).

Girded for CY 2016 and beyond, ERDB and partner State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) convened for the 2016 1st SUC Discussion on NGP on 14-17 March 2016 at the Visayas State University (VSU), Baybay City, Leyte.

ERDB-NGP Operations Center (NGP OpCen) and 22 of 27 partner SUCs attended the said event. The previous year’s accomplishments, issues, and concerns, the CY 2016 action plans, and the CY 2017 – 2028 forward plans and criteria for SUCs involvement in the expanded NGP were discussed.

ERDB researchers, Ms. Karen Rae M. Fortus and Ms. Donnabel A. Elpedes, participated and presented a technical paper on “Documentation of Folk Culture of Selected Indigenous Communities in the Philippines: An Initial Assessment” during the workshop on Traditional Knowledge for Ecosystems Services in ASEAN Countries on March 2-4, 2016 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

With the greater goal for sustainable forest management (SFM), researchers from the academe and government offices from Korea, Peninsular Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines and Sabah exchanged research outputs and experiences by presenting their papers on folk culture related to ecosystems services. They believe that traditional knowledge is a valuable input to improve and strengthen existing SFM strategies and policies in Asia.

ERDB participated in the exhibit, sungka tournament, and fun run as part of the celebration of the World Water Day. The celebration aims to promote the importance of freshwater and sustainable management of freshwater resources with the theme “Water and Jobs”.

ERDB featured its study on climate change vulnerability assessment of coastal and marine areas in priority watersheds at the exhibit in Trinoma, Quezon City on March 22. On the same day, Ms. Florita E. Siapno and Marie L. Joy Zuraek joined the Sungka tournament. Thirty- one ERDB personnel participated in the fun run in Marikina Sports Complex on March 20. Mr. Paul Baguhin and Mr. Almiro Oltiveros won the first and third place, respectively in the 3,000-kilometer run.

ERDB joined the SIPAG FIESTA exhibit on March 2-4 at PCAARRD Headquarters, Los Baños, Laguna. Forest tree macropropagation techniques, HI-Q VAM 1 application, and production of DENR charcoal briquettes were featured at the exhibit.

Visitors of the exhibit were informed about the ERDB technologies. All queries were answered by the ERDB exhibitors. Most of the visitors were interested with HI-Q VAM 1 and bought kilos and sacks of the products of the said technology.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), through the Planning and Management Services Unit spearheaded the 1st Management Conference on March 8-11, 2016 at Camp John Hay, Baguio City. This activity has given the research sector the leeway to convene regularly to address attendant issues and concerns in the implementation of the ENR RDE Framework as well as its commitment and deliverables. It also serves as a venue to further discuss and agree on the direction of the research agenda to fulfill the Bureau’s vision of improving the quality of lives of the Filipino people.

This conference aimed to: (1) present the updates on the agreement made in the 4th Management Conference; 2) discuss the performance-based and monitoring of mangrove and Beach Forest Development Project and National Greening Program-Production of Quality Planning Materials (NGP-POPM) concerns (SPAs, IPTs, Clonal Facilities and SUC Partnership) and Strategic Plan for CY 2016; 3) discuss the minimum standards for Individual Performance Commitment and Review (IPCR); 5) present the RDE Roadmap of MDARC, UTHRC and BCWERC; 6) present and discuss the final RDE Framework 2017-2022 and; 7) provide other information through the Director’s Hour.

The ERDB in partnership with the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army steered a three-day training on Bamboo Propagation, Plantation Establishment and Management (BPPM) to further reinforce the DENR-DND Bamboo Plantation Project in the Fort Ramon Magsaysay Military Reservation (FRMMR) dubbed as Oplan Bambusa in military term.

This year’s training on BPPM is the fourth training since its launching in 2014. It was held at Kaugnay Officers Clubhouse, Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija on March 1-3. Fourty-seven participants attended the training—military personnel from Special Forces Regiment (Airborne), Headquarters, Special Operation Commands (SOCOM), Real Estate Program and Economic Welfare Center (REPEWC), Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion (HHSBn), 7th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army and ten (10) civilians. It equipped the implementers with different bamboo propagation techniques, particularly proper selection and cutting of planting materials as well as step-by-step procedures on plantation establishment and management. Ground application of HI-Q VAM 1 technology developed by the ERDB was also discussed.

A tribute was given to ERDB senior citizens during the flag ceremony as part of the celebration of Grandparents’ Week on March 14. They were serenaded by the ERDB employees led by Ms. Marilou C. Arcillas. This is the first time that the Bureau celebrated the said event in compliance to RA 7432.

Seminar on Proper Ways to Keep our Kidneys Healthy was also held for the senior citizens on March 22 at the ERDB Auditorium. Dr. Lafayette R. Ang-Santo, a urologist, discussed the prostate, urinary tract infection and kidneys. Queries of the attendees were answered by Dr. Ang-Santo. Some of the senior citizens also had a personal consultation with the doctor after the seminar.

In a special Kapihan on Watersheds and Water Resources, recently conducted at the Le Monet Hotel, Camp John Hay, Baguio City, Dr. Henry Adornado, Director of Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), and Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan signed a Memorandum of Agreement March 10, 2016 signaling the start of partnership on Water Harvesting Technologies (WHT). This MOA spells out the participatory extension of ENR technologies through the Pro-Active Response Towards Environmental Relations Based on Needs and Demand (PARTNER-BOND) program of ERDB to the City of Baguio.

Under the MOA, the ERDB’s Client-based Technology Transfer and Extension Services shall impart ENR technologies through trainings, technology forum, and technology exhibits to the City. In turn, the City will showcase water harvesting technologies to encourage visitors and LGUs to adopt these technologies. It is hoped that the partnership will promote and facilitate the application of WHT in ecological parks and in water deficient areas.

In line with the celebration of the Women’s Month 2016, the ERDB GAD Focal Point System conducted the kick-off program on March 8, 2016 at the ERDB grounds. This year’s theme is “Kapakanan ni Juana, Isama sa Adyenda”. Ms. Veronica O. Sinohin, Chief of the Technology Transfer Division led the opening prayer.

ERDB Director Henry A. Adornado gave the opening message. He said, “The Philippines is very privileged because 5% of the budget of government offices is allotted to women.” He welcomed and thanked everyone for participating in the event.

The ERDB GAD (Gender and Development) Focal Point System prepared different activities in connection with the celebration of the 2016 Women’s Month. This year’s theme is “Kapakanan ni Juana, Isama sa Adyenda”. The activities started with the uploading of the GAD logo in the ERDB website. Likewise, the GAD tarpaulin was hanged at the ERDB poster area. In addition, Ms. Nida Reyes and Esperanza Talero participated in the women courses offered by the TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority) at the DENR Social Hall.

The ERDB GAD focal point system members hosted the flag ceremony on March 7, 2016. The group also gave away raffle prizes during the ceremony.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), as a member of the Philippine CITES (Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) Scientific Authority (CSA), was represented by the Bureau Director, Dr. Henry A. Adornado, in paying a visit to the crocodile farm in Teresa, Rizal last February 26, 2016. The visit was part of the evaluation for the Coral Agri-venture Farm, Inc. (CAVFI)’s application for CITES Registration for the breeding operations of Saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus).

Before the tour around the farm, Director Adornado, along with Dr. Simplicia A. Pasicolan (Chief Science Research Specialist) and Ms. Girlie H. Rueda (Science Research Analyst) had an initial meeting with the CAVFI Biologist, Mr. Rainier Manalo and Farm Manager, Mr. Brian Sibongga. During the meeting, the Director inquired about the CAVFI’s farming permit, sources of parental breeding stocks, individual identification of crocodiles, storage for the processed meat and export of crocodile products, among others.

The meeting cum workshop on Program Expenditure Classification (PREXC) Organization Outcome 3: Adaptive Capacities of Human Communities and Natural System Improved hosted by the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) was held at Training Center, Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB), Quezon City on February 3, 2016. The activity aimed to identify the activities and indicators under the Program Expenditure Classification (PREXC) Organization Outcome 3: Adaptive Capacities of Human Communities and Natural System Improved.

The ERDB team was composed of Assistant Director Antonio M. Daño, Dr. Aurora S. Jose, Mr. Juan B. Ebora, Ms. Mylene O. Aparente, Ms Marie Abbie Gail L. Dela Cueva and Mr. Jonathan Alexander Galang who attended the said activity. The agencies who participated-in were the DENR bureaus and its attached agencies (RBCO, FASPO, LLDA, WB, PPD, NASMRIA, FMB, EMB, LMB), Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and focal persons on the concerned projects: PHIL-WAVES, B+WISER and PROFOR. There were more than 60 participants in the said activity.

Three (3) staff from the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands, and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) participated in the training, ‘Open Water SCUBA Diving Course’ held at the SCUBA Diving Institute-Subiza Resort, Olongapo City, Zambales last February 15-21, 2016.

The training which was organized by the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), primarily aims to capacitate technical personnel for the underwater survey of marine ecosystems in line with the Coastal Zone and Freshwater Ecosystems Research Division’s (CZFERD) implementation of the Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment of Coastal and Marine Areas Study.

For the first time in ERDB, senior citizen employees gathered to discuss their programs and activities at ERDB Conference Room on February 12. Ms. Veronica O. Sinohin, Technology Transfer Division Chief presided the meeting.

“It is good that we are gathered by the Bureau, for us to be aware of our rights and benefits as senior citizens,” said Ms. Sinohin. The highlight of the meeting was the celebration of the grandparents’ week on March 11-18 in pursuant to Proclamation No. 757 series of 1996. The proclamation states that each year, a special week should be devoted to the senior citizens to honor and recognize their importance in the society.

Forester Emma M. Germano, station head of the BCWERC- Babatngon, Leyte was the resource person during the orientation on ‘Eco-tourism and Mangrove Plantation Program in Eastern Visayas’ last February 2, 2016 held at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Region 8 Conference Hall in Tacloban City. The said activitywas in coordination with the Department of Tourism (DOT) in the region, the Visayas Response Team (VRT), and Barangay LGU 83 Paraiso in San Jose, Tacloban City. Said orientation was for the benefit of visiting students of Kansei Gakuin University, Osaka, Japan and the IC-NET Limited Program.

Forester Germano discussed the salient facts of the mangroves ecosystems, its importance, and role in protecting coastal communities from natural disasters and other calamities. She also provided an overview of the Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Project (MBFDP) implementation under the National Greening Program in Eastern Visayas. Supervising Tourism Operations Officer Trina Dacuycuy of DOT also presented the Eastern Visayas Tourism Situationer while Forester Josephine Agustin of DENR Region 8 briefed visiting students on the National Greening Program implementation in the region.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 7 was adjudged as 1st place winner during the Regional Presentations of Post-project Assessment Report of the Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Project (MBFDP) held at the Waterfront Manila Pavilion Hotel, Ermita, Manila last February 4-5, 2016.

Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) as the national coordinator of MBFDP, organized the event participated in by some senior officials of DENR Central Office, DENR Regional Directors as presenters, Research Center Heads, MBFDP Coordinators, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officers (PENROs), and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Officers (CENROs). Ms. Emma E. Melana, MBFDP Region 7 Coordinator presented the report in lieu of DENR 7 Regional Director Isabelo R. Montejo. Included in the report presentation is Region 7’s contribution of about 10% of the MBFDP national target of 50,000 hectares. DENR 7 has planted 4,947.41 ha out of its 4,728 ha target or a 105% accomplishment.

The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) became the first of the six (6) research centers to benefit in the series of capacity building initiatives conducted by the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau - Gender and Development Focal Point System (ERDB-GADFPS). The 2-day event dubbed “Gender Sensitivity and Gender Responsive Training for Research Centers and Workshop on the Application of Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG) in Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Research Programs and Projects,” was held at the Conference Room of DENR Region 7, Cebu City last February 10-11, 2016. ERDB-GADFPS officers Ms. Rowena Payuan, Ms. Salvacion Orobia, and Ms. Gliceria de Guzman served as resource persons in the said event.

In lieu of BCWERC Center Head Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, Supervising Science Research Specialist Reynaldo L. Lanuza, in his capacity as OIC of the Office, expressed high hopes in GAD as a significant dimension in the design and implementation of RDE projects. He encouraged participants to take advantage of the learning event to improve research and technology transfer activities of BCWERC.

The team of CENRO Rene G. Abordo of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office in Kabankalan, Negros Island Region assessed the 10-hectare NGP site of mangrove plantation where approximately 200 sq. m. was infested by Poecilips fallax Eggers last February 1, 2016 in Barauga I Poblacion, Hinoba-an, Negros Island Region. The team was composed of CENRO Rene G. Abordo, For. Ascension Santocildes, FEO Ricky Lademora, FEO George Tolentino, Marine Biologist David Dehaan, MENRO Joseph Benedict Velasco, Forest Ranger Antonio Caspillo and Jessie Talaban.

The infestation was discovered on January 20, 2016 which caused the mortality of the saplings of Bakauan lalaki and babae or Rhizophora apiculata and Rhizophora mucronata. It was observed that the stem of the one year old propagules of the said species was the most affected part and its leaves totally fell off. Tunnels were discovered inside the stems created by a tiny beetle pest called Poecilips fallax Eggers.

Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) Director, Dr. Henry A. Adornado attended the ‘Visayas Cluster Regional Strategic Planning Workshop for CY 2016 Implementation of the National Greening and Forest Protection Program’ held last January 20-23, 2016 at the Cebu Grand Hotel, Escario St., Cebu City. The 3-day activity participated in by officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the National Greening Program (NGP) focal persons and coordinators discussed the NGP implementation for CY 2016, implications of the budget cut and measures to accomplish the NGP target, and the Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Project (MBFDP).

Director Adornado reported on the Status of MBFDP Implementation in the Visayas Region. Highlights of his report also include the 2015 Accomplishments of the NGP implementation, particularly on the activity ‘Production of Quality Planting Materials’ (PQPM) on seed collection, plantation development, and the seedling produced by the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands, and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) and its counterpart, the State, Universities, and Colleges (SUCs) in the Visayas regions.

Senator Cynthia A. Villar, who is known as Mrs. Hanepbuhay served as keynote speaker in the celebration of the World Wetlands Day on February 2 at the ERDB Auditorium. The event was titled “A Forum on Wetlands for our Future: Sustainable Livelihoods.” 

In her speech, Senator Villar shared her advocacy, “Do not give a man a fish but teach him how to fish.” According to the Senator, the projects of the government should be sustainable and would support the livelihood of the community. This is to assure that the people would be encouraged to join government projects especially the environment-related ones.

The approximately 2-hectare mangrove area infested by the larva of ‘tide watching mangrove moth’ was monitored by the team of Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center–Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region VI (BCWERC-DENR 6) last January 22, 2016. The worms of ‘tide watching mangrove moth’, Aucha velans were found responsible for the drying out and turning brown of mangrove trees that was detected and assessed on November 12, 2015. The area was later verified to be part of Brgy. Ingore, La Paz, Iloilo City.

After almost two months, the mangroves particularly the Avicennia species were observed by the BCWERC team to have recovered from the damages brought by the infestation. Mangrove trees were green and lush again. Some of them were still recovering especially those in the inner part of the mangrove area. No interventions were applied, they survived on their own.

ERDB’s project on “Estimation of Carbon Sequestration Rates and Carbon Density of Forest Plantation Species in Mindanao won in the “Best Poster” contest during the 12th Symposium and General Assembly of the Forests and Natural Resources Research Society of the Philippines, Incorporated (FORESPI). Forester Manolito U. Sy and Mr. Nelson Levi M. Lantican who authored the study received P2,000 as cash prize. The awarding ceremony was held on December 16, 2015 at the Nicholas P. Lansigan Auditorium, College of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of the Philippines, Los Baños, Laguna.

During the symposium, nine (9) papers from the different research agencies were presented while for the poster presentation, five (5) presenters confirmed their participation.

The Land Management, Agroforestry and Upland Farming Technology Research Center(LAUFTeRC) held its first-ever Year End Assessment and Forward Planning Workshop last December 9-13, 2015. Simultaneously, it also held a Human Resource Intervention for Rank-and-file Personnel from December 9-12.

The Forward Planning Workshop was first undertaken on December 10, with the following agenda: refinement of Project/Program Operational Plans (POP) for the coming year; presentation of the Work and Financial Plans of each Research Station; the designation of study leaders and co-workers; DPCR workshop for the periods July-December 2015 and January-June 2016; drafting of initial IPCRs for the periods July-December 2015 and January-June 2016, and refinement of the LAUFTeRC organizational structure.

In an effort to ensure smooth connection and facilitate a dynamic Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) functions of the newly established DENR Negros Island Region (NIR), Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, OIC Center Head of the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands, and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) paid a courtesy visit to DENR NIR office last January 15, 2016. NIR is the 18th region in the Visayas Island composed of the provinces of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, which includes the highly urbanized City of Bacolod. NIR RDE functions will now be directly under the BCWERC, which comprises Regions, 6, 7, and 8, respectively.

Dr. Lustica met with the newly installed Regional Director of DENR NIR, Al O. Orolfo to discuss the potential RDE respective structure, functions, and logistics for the full implementation of the newly established region. Discussion focused on how BCWERC will be providing technical assistance on the RDE needs of NIR, known as the pioneering region in terms of “One Island – One Diversity.”

Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC) conducted a one-day Regional Technology Forum on ENR Technologies on December 8, 2015 at JC Leisure and Business Place, Lanao, Kidapawan City. The forum aimed to disseminate and promote ENR technologies regarding the mining and degraded areas rehabilitation generated by the research sector.

Forty-six participants from different local government units in Cotabato Province and South Cotabato, other government line agencies and academe attended the said forum. MDARRC Center Head Dr. Bighani M. Manipula welcomed the participants and assured them to provide science-based information and technologies to rehabilitate mined-out and degraded areas through the forum.

The Forest Ecosystem Research Division (FERD) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) conducted the 2015 Year-End Assessment of its R & D Program on Forest Ecosystems Resiliency and Sustainability last January 8, 2016 at the ERDB Auditorium.

Looking back and looking forward — For. Florita E. Siapno, OIC-Division Chief, led the activity by presenting the overview of the program as well as the 2017-2022 road map of the Division. Then, study leaders and staff presented the highlights of CY 2015 accomplishments and CY 2016 targets. An open forum followed to help identify and address major issues and concerns of the studies.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) Team headed by the Urban Ecosystem Research Division (UERD) Chief, Dr. Simplicia A. Pasicolan had successfully conducted two separate (2) events of Information Education and Communication (IEC) regarding the conservation of peatland in Lalaguna Marsh in Lopez, Quezon and Agusan Marsh in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur on October 28 and December 3, 2015 respectively. Various offices both from the public and private sectors in the said areas were represented to participate in these activities.

In Lopez, the program was officially started by For. Joselito Barros of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) who welcomed the guest speakers and participants, as well as the ERDB Team. Afterwards, a brief introduction regarding the importance of supporting the peatland conservation efforts was given by the Tourism Officer and Deputy Administrator of Technologicalcal University of the Philippines, Mr. Jever Ladines. According to Mr. Ladines, protecting the Lalaguna Marsh is globally significant as it is one of the followed routes of the protected migratory waterbirds.

The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau – DENR conducted the Year-End Assessment of BCWERC RDE Projects and Programs last December 20-23, 2015 at the Bohol Plaza Resort and Restaurant, Mayacabag, Dauis, Bohol. The event was an offshoot of the BCWERC’s 3rd Quarter Assessment held last October, 26-29, 2015 in Iloilo City.

BCWERC OIC-Center Head, Dr. Alicia L. Lustica emphasized that assessing the operational systems, reviewing existing staffing patterns, and creating specific tasks that include administrative and finance functions are crucial to fully operationalize a solid set-up at the center and institute a coherent regulatory system. Dr. Lustica shared some updates, issues, and concerns recently discussed during the 4th Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) RDE Management Conference held at Tagaytay City last December 15-16, 2015. She likewise introduced the research bureau’s implementation of the Individual Development Plan (IDP), a scheme to identify learning based on the competency of each personnel. Measuring employees’ competencies through job knowledge tests, interviews, cognitive abilities, social skills and so on is very important to assess if employees are competent enough to do certain jobs in the field, Dr. Lustica said.

Director Henry A. Adornado led the 32 newly appointed employees who took an oath of office which was followed by the general assembly of ERDB employees on January 4 at the ERDB Auditorium.

Division Chiefs Dr. Marilyn Q. Landicho, Dr. Carmelita I. Villamor, Dr. Simplicia A. Pasicolan, Dr. Aurora S. Jose, Ms. Florita E. Siapno, Ms. Veronica O. Sinohin and Mr. Angelito B. Exconde gave messages for the event. They all inspired the ERDB employees especially those who were promoted to work hard and aim for excellence in 2016.

In time for the holiday season, the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) held its year-end employees’ assembly on December 18, 2015 at the ERDB building. All the ERDB division chiefs, staff, and personnel as well as representatives from ERDB’s six Research Centers (RCs) attended the event.

The Director Henry Adornado, with the members of ERDB’s Executive Committee and RC heads, spearheaded the opening of the exhibit at the ERDB lobby to officially start the event. The exhibit featured all the ERDB divisions and centers, focusing on their roles and functions. In his opening message, Dr. Adornado said that he hopes that through its activities and programs, ERDB would be more recognized as a part of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). He also commended the Technology Transfer Division (TTD), headed by Ms. Veronica Sinohin, for the successful launching of the exhibit.

The newly renovated research station building of the Watershed and Water Resources Research Center’s (WWRRC) research station in Region 2, the Cagayan Valley Ecosystems Research Station (WWRRC-CVERS) at Lower Magat, Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya was inaugurated on December 22, 2015.

The program of the inauguration started with the opening remarks from Center Director, Dr. Carlos S. Arida, Sr. and was immediately followed by the welcome remarks from CVERS Station Head, Mr. Noel S. Soriano. Former Regional Technical Directors (RTDs) and the foundation of Research, For. Henry Patricio, For. Wilfredo Malvar, and Ms. Lilia dL. Abel shared their memorable experiences and stories during their stay in the said research station.

The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC), Region 6, tasked with the implementation of “Biodiversity Profiling and Carrying Capacity Determination of Priority Ecotourism Areas” project, conducted a vegetation and faunal survey in Gigantes Island, Carles Iloilo. The survey aims to identify vulnerable and threatened species/resources in the area.

Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, BCWERC Center Head/Project Leader requested the BCWERC Region 7 Biodiversity Profiling and CarCap Team, headed by Chona M. Tura and the project staff For. Ancelmo Aurestila, For. Bernardo Redoblado, and Ms. Hanna Lou Castillo to lead and supervise the said activity. The team conducted the survey which focused on mangroves, timberland, birds and bats together with the assistance of the BCWERC R6 staff, Ms. Lovejoy Tejido and Ms. Jenny Lacorte, support of CENRO Normandy K. Lebelo of Sara, Iloilo and Barangay Captains of Gigantes Island. Transect and quadrat methods were utilized to quantify the relative abundance of mangroves and timberland in the area. For the identification of bird and bat species, mist nets were established near their habitats.

Twenty-three (23) residents of Gumaca, Quezon visited the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) and its facilities on December 9, 2015 as a part of their lakbay aral in Los Baños, Laguna.

Quezon province’s Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) coordinated the said study tour as part of its Bottom-Up Budgeting scheme. The activity aimed to provide environment-friendly and sustainable livelihood options to the residents that are feasible to adopt in their municipalities.

Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, OIC Center Head of the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands, and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) and Dr. Maria Lourdes Quiatchon-Moreno, Science Research Specialist of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau participated in the East Asian Seas Congress 2015 and Fifth Ministerial Forum held at Da Nang City, Vietnam last November 17-21, 2015. They were among the more than 500 coastal and economic managers, national and local government officials, policymakers, and scientists who attended this triennial event.

The theme of this year’s congress, "Global Targets, Local Benefits: Setting the Sustainable Agenda for the Seas of East Asia,” primarily aimed to provide a dynamic platform for knowledge sharing, collaborative action, partnership building, and a forum to advance commitment and cooperation in achieving the shared vision of a sustainable East Asian Seas.

The Pro-Active Response Towards Nurturing Environmental Relations: A Barangay Outreach project based on community Needs and Demands Partner-Bond) project conducted the Capacity Building on Bamboo Propagation on November 24, 2015 at the Disaster and Risk Reduction Management Council (DRRMC) building in Liliw, Laguna.

Hon. Mayor Ericson J. Sulibit of Liliw, Laguna gave the welcome remarks during the training. Ms. Marla V. Cambay, Project leader of the Partner Bond project was the emcee and gave the rationale, objectives, mechanics and expected output of the project. Ms. Leah Domasig introduced the participants of the training.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) featured its mycorrhizal technology, Hi-Q VAM 1, in the 11th National Biotechnology Week (NBW). The NBW was held on November 23-28 at SM City Dasmariñas, Cavite with the theme “Bioteknolohiya: Kaagapay ng Mamamayan sa Pambansang Kaunlaran”.

Plant samples were displayed in the exhibit to highlight the difference between plants with and without Hi-Q VAM 1. This mycorrhizal technology aids plants in coping with various environmental stresses, and thus, shows promise in rehabilitation of degraded and marginal lands. In addition, sample Hi-Q VAM 1, several publications, IEC materials, and other freebies were also given to those who visited the booth.

A total of 266 attendees participated in the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau’s (ERDB) Technology Forum on Environment and Biotechnology held at SM Dasmariñas Event Center on Nov. 25, 2015. The activity was conducted as a part of the weeklong celebration of the 11th National Biotechnology Week.

ERDB Director Dr. Henry A. Adornado welcomed the participants to the forum which are mainly composed of high school and college students, teachers, instructors and professors, local government unit (LGU) members, and other government and non-government employees. Some ERDB staff and officials were also in attendance for the forum.

The Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) Region 6 brought home awards and prizes in paper and poster presentations from the Symposium on the Transfer and Adoption of ENR Technologies held last November 5, 2015 held at the ERDB Auditorium, Los Baňos, Laguna. The entry of BCWERC Region 6 which is entitled, “Talaba Culture in the Midst of Mangrove Forestation: The Balaring Experience,” won 2nd place in the paper presentation with a cash prize of P20,000. It was presented by the Balaring Mangrove Planters Association’s (BAMPA) representative Ms. Nombria Dooma.

The Talaba-inspired entry in poster presentation got the 3rd place with a cash prize of P5,000. A total of nine (9) entries coming from different ERDB Satellite Offices participated in the event namely: regions 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11 and the National Capital Region (NCR). The four (4) panellists who judged the contest were Prof. Rommel A. Daya, professor at the College of Development Communication in UPLB; Dr. Aleli M. Luna, former Chief of the Upland Farms Ecosystems Research Division (UFERD); Mr. Eliseo M. Baltazar, former Chief of the Technology Transfer Division (TTD) and For. Celso P. Diaz, former ERDB Director.

The team from the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center–Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region VI (BCWERC-DENR 6) assessed the approximately 2 - hectare mangrove area which was detected to be infested by the larva of ‘tide watching mangrove moth’ last November 12, 2015 in Brgy. Loboc, La Paz, Iloilo City.

As observed, the worms were feeding on the Avicennia species’ leaves causing a considerable number of mangrove trees to dry up and turn brown. The pupa of ‘tide watching mangrove moth,’ Aucha velans were found on dried wrinkled leaves of the mangroves, particularly the Avicennia species.

Preparing for 2015 National Convergence Initiative (NCI) meeting. DENR and Department of National Defense representatives, headed by Dr. Antonio M. Daňo of ERDB (left) and Major General Angelito M. de Leon of 7th Infantry Division, met on November 5 at Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija to review the agenda for the upcoming NCI meeting. The meeting scheduled in late November will convene the heads of departments of environment and natural resources, national defense, agrarian reform, agriculture, and interior and local government. It will focus on the accomplishments and important issues on the collaborative implementation of the National Greening Program projects: the 3000-hectare bamboo plantation in Fort Magsaysay Military Reservation and 500-hectare coffee plantation at Camp Kibaritan in Bukidnon. (Photo and Text by Media Group, NGP-PQPM)

WWRRC (Watershed and Water Resources Research Center) - Region 2 in Tuguegarao, Cagayan bagged 2 awards during the "Symposium on the Transfer and Adoption of ENR Technologies" which was held on November 5, 2015 at the ERDB Auditorium.

The winning entry was the Seedling Production and Clonal Propagation Technologies of the CELYO Rizal Kooperatiba, a Rizalista sect of Barangay Buntun, Tuguegarao, City, Cagayan which was assisted by WWRRC- Region 2. They won the 1st place in both paper (P30,000) and poster (P10,000) presentations.

Forty (40) participants from the towns of Plaridel, Padre Burgos and Sampaloc, Quezon joined the Lakbay Aral on October 28, 2015 at the ERDB.

The participants were composed of the Municipal Agricultural Officers (MAOs) of Sampaloc, Plaridel and members of the Association of OFW of Padre Burgos, Quezon. Mayor Emmanuel Jesus S. Torres of Sampaloc, Quezon also joined the tour.

In an effort to capacitate Extension Service Providers (ESPs) about bamboo, the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), through the Technology Transfer Division (TTD), organized the Capacity Building of ESPs on Bamboo Utilization on October 12-15, 2015.

The learning event conducted at Maria Paz Royale Garden Resort, San Pablo City was developed to equip extension workers with technical knowledge on bamboo propagation from ERDB and its research centers, namely, Watershed and Water Resources Research Center (WWRRC), Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC), Land Management, Agroforestry and Upland Farms Technology Research Center (LMAUFTRC), Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC), and Forest and Timber Resources Research Center (FTRRC).

ERDB shared its knowledge on bamboo through exhibit at Oktoberfest 2015 in Camp Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal on October 23-25. The said event was hosted by the 2nd Infantry Division (2ID), Philippine Army with the theme, "Winning Partners for Peace and Development."

Three bamboo species such as Bolo, Kawayang tinik, Buho, and Giant Bamboo were featured at the exhibit. Soldiers and civilians who visited were informed on the ecological and economical benefits of bamboo. Information, education and communication (IEC) materials were also displayed and given away.

The ERDB through the Pro-Active Response Towards Nurturing Environmental Relations: A Barangay Outreach project based on Community Needs and Demands. (Partner Bond) conducted the capacity building on DENR Charcoal Briquetting, Bamboo and Forest Tree Propagation at the Field Agricultural Extension Services (FAES) of the Department of Agriculture on Oct. 20, 2015 in Sta. Cruz, Laguna.

Fifty six (56) participants comprising of 4H club members, coordinators and LGU members attended the training. They came from Magdalena, Sta. Maria, Cavinti, Nagcarlan Calamba, Pakil, San Pablo, Liliw, Kalayaan, Pangil, Siniloan, Pagsanjan and Lumban towns in Laguna.

ERDB joined the 1st National Conference on Food and Nutrition Security in Crimson Hotel, Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa on October 12-13. The conference aims to present the current status of food production, trade, food security information, nutrition security, RDE, and governance policies on food security in the Philippines.

Atty. Jonas R. Leones, Undersecretary for Environment and International Environmental Affairs delivered thekeynote message in behalf of DENR Secretary Ramon JP Paje. He reminded the participants for being fortunate to have breakfast while others cannot remember their last meal. He also stated the problem of environmental degradation and having more mouths to feed. With this, he emphasized the importance of research to develop technology that will help to address the problem of food security and be shared to the public.

In pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 647 declaring the month of October of every year as the National Statistical Month (NSM) enjoining all government agencies to participate in the celebration of the 26th National Statistics Month in October 2015 with the theme "Pagyamanin at Gamitin ang Estadistika, Kalusugan para sa Lahat ay Abot-Kamay Na". This year's host is the Department of Health (DOH).

In line with this celebration, the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau spearheaded by the Planning and Management Information Unit Services-Office of the Director (PMISU-OD) conducted a lecture on "Mga Halamang Gamot" on October 8, 2015 at Sto. Nino Elementary School, Marikina City. The resource speaker was Forester Monnete Mauricio of the Forest Ecosystem Research Division.

In line with the celebration of the 97th UPLB Alumni Loyalty Day on October 10, 2015, 88 ERDB personnel headed by the Acting Director, Dr. Henry A. Adornado participated in the foot parade from the Oblation Park to the D. L. Umali Hall.

This activity was attended and participated in by the different institutions, agencies and other members of the UPLB Los Baños community. It was also attended by the UPLB alumni and jubilarians (classes ending in 0 and 5).

The Ecosystems and Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) and Land Management, Agroforestry and Upland Farming Technology Research Center (LAUFTeRC) conducted a Stakeholders' Capacity Building on "Bamboo Propagation and Plantation Establishment" on September 24-25, 2015 at the Municipal Conference Hall, Gloria, Oriental Mindoro. The activity is part of ERDB-LAUFTeRC technology transfer to support the Local Government Unit (LGU), augment livelihood options and resources conservation.

The capacity building aims to: a) provide participants with updates and trigger their interest on bamboo industry; b) enhance knowledge of stakeholders' on the importance and versatility of bamboo to environment and various industries; c) capacitate the participants on improved technologies on bamboo propagation; and d) develop/improve skills of participants on bamboo plantation establishment and maintenance.

As part of the implementation of the DENR Rationalization Plan, ERDB Acting Director Henry A. Adornado administered the oath taking ceremony for the 41 newly promoted ERDB main office and regional offices personnel with Salary Grades 18 to 24 on August 7, 2015 at the ERDB Auditorium.

Dr. Henry A. Adornado assured everyone that the ERDB Promotion and Selection Board is doing its best to consider everyone for appointment and promotion as long as they are qualified for the positions.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) spearheaded the 3rd ERDB Management Conference for CY 2015 on September 28 - 29, 2015 at the Waterfront Insular Hotel, Davao City. This activity was participated in by the six Research Center Directors together with their planning and technical staff, ERDB Acting Director Dr. Henry A. Adornado, OIC-Asst. Director Dr. Antonio M. Daño and his Executive Committee and senior technical staff, guests from the DENR Undersecretary for Planning, Policy and Foreign Assisted Project, Assistant Secretary for Field Operations, Director for Administration and Information System and Director for Finance Services, OIC-Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Division, and Regional Director of DENR XI, and representatives from the Budget and Finance Services Unit.

This conference aimed to: (1) present and discuss updates on the status of targets and deliverables of Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Program (MBFDP), NGP-PQPM, ENR Technologies, DAO and other MOAs/MOUs of ERDB's Operation and Management and Administrative and Finance concerns; (2) discuss the outputs of the Research Centers' In-House Review; (3) discuss the Proposed Program Expenditure Classification (PREXC); (4) present and discuss the Integrated Roadmap on the RDE Framework for 2017-2022; and (5) present the Guidelines on Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS).

To assess and evaluate the progress and status of implementation of the different research and development programs/projects/studies of the entire ERDB vis-à-vis the submitted work and financial plans, the ERDB conducted an annual in-house review for all on-going and completed researches implemented for CY 2014-2015 on Sept. 21-22, 2015 at the ERDB Auditorium.

The activity aimed to: (a) assess and evaluate the RDE programs and other priority projects in terms of status of implementation, activities undertaken and the attainment of objectives, targets, deliverables and outcomes of the projects and studies; (b) identify problems met during the project implementation and recommend specific courses of action such as continuation, extension, modification of planned activities and methodology, suspension, and termination in accordance with the recommendations of the panel of evaluators; (c) identify technologies generated requiring field testing, verification and piloting; and (d) identify mature technologies and/or significant results ready for packaging, dissemination, as well as formulation of policy, guidelines, bulletin and as inputs to development/action planning.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) held a two-day training on Environmental Risk Assessment of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) on September 14 to 15, 2015 at the SEARCA Residence Hall.

In partnership with the Program for Biosafety Systems (PBS) Philippines, a program based at the BIOTECH in the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) and is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), around 25 staff and personnel from ERDB and its six research centers, Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB), and the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) participated in the training.

BS Forestry students from Bicol University College of Agriculture and Forestry (BUCAF) conducted educational tour at the Land Management, Agroforestry and Upland Farms Technology Research Center (LMAUFTRC) on August 18. The 65 second year and third year students, led by Prof. Alberto B. Gonzales, visited the LMAUFTRC as part of their learning activities and laboratory exercises in Taxonomy, Morphology, Dendrology, and Nursery Establishment and Management.

LMAUFTRC OIC-Center Head Lucena U. Mercado welcomed the BUCAF's BS Forestry students and Ms. Ruby M. Macasinag gave a brief orientation about the office and surveyed about learning in an alternative venue.

Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), Assistant Director Antonio M. Daño in lieu of Director Henry A. Adornado delivered the keynote address to students and alumni during the recently held symposium organized for the "40th Anniversary Celebration of the College of Forestry and Environmental Science (CFES)" on September 17 at the Visayas State University (VSU) Convention Center, Baybay, Leyte. Director Daño discussed the topic, 'Research, Development and Extension (RDE) Direction in Response to the Challenges in Forestry and Environment Sector.' The event was participated by VSU alumni, students, professors, and other invited officials.

This years' CFES anniversary theme, "Facing the challenges in forestry and environmental management forty years of existence and beyond," brought together alumni and students in the symposium to provide opportunities for exchange of views and plans on possible collaboration on various researches and development undertakings. The symposium likewise sought to facilitate career development among students and networking across the field of forestry and environmental science. Director Daño in his speech assured to support and to continuously collaborate with VSU in their RDE efforts. He however posed a challenge to professors to constantly guide students to aspire more and be of service to their colleagues and make possible adjustments in the curriculum to catch up with the needs of the present times. "With the Yolanda experience, we need to fortify our efforts and work double time to accomplish our targets," Director Daño said.

OIC-Center Head for the Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research (BCWERC), Dr. Alicia L. Lustica likewise informed the group that both ERDB and BCWERC will offer supplemental information through the distribution of information, education and communication (IEC) materials to support the VSU not just in technology generation but also in facilitating access to science-based information and knowledge. "It was a great opportunity for all of us here to be greatly aware of our respective roles and we look forward to continuously collaborate with you in several future RDE undertakings," Dr. Lustica said.

The College of Forestry and Environmental Science at the VSU, a center of excellence in forestry and similar fields in Visayas, has been generating appropriate technologies for forest resources and environmental management and conservation through relevant research undertakings for years. Ann F. Jumawan, BCWERC

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) took part in the week-long celebration of the 14^th Bañamos Festival and commemoration of the 400^th founding anniversary of the municipality of Los Baños last September 17, 2015.

Around 45 staff and personnel represented by all the divisions of ERDB joined the thousands of individuals in lining up for the parade at 5:30 in the morning, stretching from Olivares Mall to the former municipal hall of Los Baños in Barangay Anos. More than a hundred of organizations and institutions in Los Baños including the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), and Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) participated in the parade.

The ERDB has started operating under the new organizational structure . The new organizational structure is composed of the ERDB main office (ERD-MO) and six Research Centers (RCs).

The ERDB-MO is composed of five research divisions, namely: Forest Ecosystems Research Division (FERD), Coastal Zone and Freshwater Ecosystems Research Division (CZFERD); Urban Ecosystem Research Division (UERD), Technology Transfer Division (TTD), and Laboratory and Experimental Services Division (LESD). In addition to these, two non-technical divisions are: Planning and Management Information Services Unit (PMISU) and the Administrative, Finance and Management Division (AFMD).

The Capacity Building on Bamboo and Forest Tree Propagation was held on September 3, 2015 in Dolores, Quezon through the ERDB's Pro-Active Response Towards Nurturing Environmental Relations: a Barangay Outreach project based on Community Needs and Demands (PARTNER-BOND )Project. The program started with the invocation and singing of the national anthem.

Dolores Vice Mayor Mario Milan, Jr. delivered the opening remarks, followed by the PARTNER-BOND Project Leader, Ms. Marla V. Cambay's explanation of the training rationale.

The Pro-Active Response Towards Nurturing Environmental Relations: a Barangay Outreach project based on Community Needs and Demands (PARTNER-BOND) Project of ERDB conducted a bamboo planting activity on August. 28, 2015 in Barangay Batangan, General Nakar, Quezon along the Sierra Madre Mountain.

The ERDB through the project donated 200 seedlings of kawayan tinik and giant bamboo. The group was met by Mr. Rolly Velasco, President of the Peoples Organization Batangan General Nakar Fish Farmers' Association Inc. (BGNFFAI) and its members. The site is located at the Abaca creek which is being managed by PO with 90 members. The area has been declared as an Alienable and Disposable Land of the Municipal Government of Gen. Nakar. The planting area is more than 100 hectares. Aside from the 200 seedlings of bamboo, the group also gave eight seedlings of different ornamental bamboos for their bambusetum near the dumpsite.

ERDB Acting Director Henry A. Adornado (left) and Caraga State University President Anthony M. Penaso in the National Greening Program confab held on August 4-8 at Grande Royale, Kalibo, Aklan. Also in the confab were representatives of 23 state universities and colleges (SUCs), including presidents of Aklan State University, Bohol Island State University, Capiz State University, Southern Luzon State University, and University of Antique. Personnel from ERDB headquarters and Research Centers were also there. Recent accomplishments and challenges in producing quality planting materials for the NGP, and plans to sustain the operations of SUC clonal nurseries after 2016 were tackled in the activity. (Photo and Text by Media Group, NGP-PQPM)

Twenty-one Local Government Unit (LGU) members from Lian, Batangas participated in Lakbay Aral in Los Baños Experimental Station (LBES) and other ERDB facilities last August 06, 2015.

The participants, headed by Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer (MENRO) Alvin Jonson, were welcomed by Ms. Veronica Sinohin, OIC-Chief of ERDB's Technology Transfer Division, upon their arrival at the ERDB office. To orient the participants, Ms. Sinohin briefly discussed ERDB's history and its functions. She also explained the objectives and mechanics of the Lakbay Aral.

Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC) went on field for a four-day Educational/Observation Tour cum Capability Building at Carmen Copper Corporation (CCC) Toledo City, Cebu on July 28-31. A total of 24 staff led by its Center Head, Dr. Bighani M. Manipula visited the company's mining sites.

CCC is one of the country's largest copper mine companies, making it a principal producer and exporter of copper concentrate in the country. Though new to its rehabilitation undertakings, the company continues to exert efforts in rehabilitating its mined-out areas as part of its commitment to bring back of what was lost during the course of mining operations.

ERDB joined SyenSaya 2015 which opened on August 12 at Copeland Hall, University of the Philippines Los Baños. Twenty-three science and technology institutions and organizations participated in the event with the theme "SyenSaya at Kabataan: #WOWTLG."

ERDB exhibited the four economically important bamboo species in the Philippines, Bolo, Kawayang tinik, Buho, and Giant Bamboo. Ecological and economical benefits from bamboo were presented to the visitors with different information, education and communication (IEC) materials.

Biodiversity, Coastal, Wetlands and Ecotourism Research Center (BCWERC) participated in the celebration of Visayas State University (VSU) Founding Anniversary on August 5-11 and won the Best Booth award received by Center Head Alicia L. Lustica. The celebration's theme was "Reinvigorating Agriculture for Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development" held at the VSU Oval Grounds, Visca, Baybay City, Leyte.

Forestry students from 24 countries who are members of International Forestry Students' Association (IFSA) were at the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) on August 4 for a tour in ERDB facilities.

IFSA in collaboration with ERDB aims to inform the students of current issues in environment and natural resources in local and international perspective and explore and gain knowledge about the Philippine forest, environment and society.

ERDB in partnership with 7^th Infantry Division (7ID), Philippine Army spearheaded the planting of indigenous forest tree seedlings on July 18. Non-government and private organizations, policemen and students joined the planting of 2,000 seedlings at the selected 670-hectare planting site in Brgy. Caballero, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija. The said activity is also a part of celebration of 27th year anniversary of the 7ID.

LEGAZPI CITY-The Land Management, Agroforestry and Upland Farms Technology Research Center (LMAUFTRC) held its Second Quarter Technical Meeting and Workshop last July 13-15, 2015 at the Center's main office here.

During the activity, the participants crafted the 2nd Quarter Division Performance Commitment Rating (DPCR) as a guide for determining its performance achievement and setting the target schedule for the In-House Review. A pre In-House Review has also been set on August 10-15 at Pagbilao, Quezon.

To add deeper meaning to the celebration of Labor Day, the kids of the employees of the Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Center (MDARRC) Satellite Office No 12 in Amas, Kidapawan City joined the tree planting activity inside the 100-hectare Experimental Forest last May 1, 2015. With the theme: "Tulungan ang Kalikasan, Magtanim ng Puno Para sa Kinabukasan", the May 1 "first of its kind" tree planting activity was participated in by 35 MDARRC-Satellite Office employees together with their kids and representatives from the Special Action Force (SAF) and Cotabato Provincial Public Safety Forces (CPPSF) in the Province of Cotabato.

ERDB Acting Director Henry A. Adornado, Ph.D. led the inauguration of the P5 million worth of buildings initiated by the then Ecosystems Research and Development Service (ERDS) now Mining and Degraded Areas Rehabilitation Research Center (MDARRC) Satellite Office XII on January 28, 2015.

Built out of the funds to support the National Greening Program of the government, the four new buildings include the Seed Laboratory, Tissue Culture Laboratory, 40-head capacity Dormitory and a 50-head capacity Training Hall.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau participates in the celebration of the 2015 National Science and Technology Week spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology. With the theme, "Philippines: A Science Nation Innovating for Global Competitiveness", over 100 exhibitors composed of different government agencies, State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), private entities, were present during the event. The exhibit officially opened last July 24, 2015 at SMX Mall of Asia and will last until July 28, 2015.

Thirty-eight (38) ERDB employees who were appointed and promoted took their oath of office on July 13, 2015 at the ERDB Auditorium. The appointees belong to salary grades 17 and below.

ERDB OIC Assistant Director Antonio M. Daño congratulated the new ERDB regular employees and assured them that the people that they have chosen are the ones that they know will contribute to the achievement of goals and objectives of the bureau.

The ERDB participated in the celebration of the 28^th DENR Anniversary on June 10, 2015. The event was participated in by the different DENR offices, bureaus, attached agencies and regional offices. The program started at 7 AM in front of the DENR Main Building followed by the thanksgiving mass. Afterwards, the connecting road of the DENR Central Office to the MGB Office, North Avenue, Quezon City was inaugurated.

DENR Secretary Ramon JP. Paje expressed his deepest appreciation and thanks to all the DENR employees for working hard to execute the plans, programs, projects and activities of the Department. He acknowledged all the staff of the departments from the rank and file employees to the officials who contributed to the success of the DENR's 28th Anniversary Celebration.

The 2^nd ERDB Management Conference was conducted at the Mansion Garden Hotel, Subic Bay Freeport, Subic, Zambales on June 23-26, 2015. This activity was participated in by the six Research Centers Directors together with their planning and technical staff, ERDB Acting Director, Dr. Henry A. Adornado, OIC-Asst. Director, Dr. Antonio M. Dano and his Executive Committee and senior technical staff. Some representatives from the Planning and Policy Service Office and guests from the DENR Assistant Secretary for Field Operations, Directors from Administration and Finance, and Administration and Information System and General Service and Regional Director of Region 3 and CENRO Olongapo were also present in the conference.

The ERDB Partner Bond Project of the Technology Transfer Division (TTD) conducted the "Training-Workshop Cum Hands-On Demo on DENR Charcoal Briquetting and Bamboo Propagation" held on June16-17,2015 at the Department of Agriculture Demo Farm in General Nakar, Quezon as part of its technology transfer activities.

There were 30 participants in the training composed of 25 males and six females. They were farmers and fisherfolks from the different barangays who are members of the four cooperatives. The cooperatives were the: Conservation Farming Village, Batangan General Nakar Fish Farmers Association Inc., Fisherfolks Association and BLET Group.

"Earth Day Everyday Everywhere for Everyone"- this was the theme of the 2015 Earth Day celebration. The event was highlighted with a youth camp participated by 21 schools from the National Capital Region (NCR). The activity was held on April 21-23, 2015 at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center (NAPWC).

One hundred thirty-six participants (99 grade 9 students and 37 teachers) joined the camp. Of the 21 participating schools, the Carmona National High School in Cavite represented the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) (6 students and 2 teacher -interpreters), while the Bicol University through Holcim Cement sent their five on-the-job training (OJT) students.

The Management Information Section of the Planning and Management Information Services Unit (MIS_PMISU) of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) facilitated the upgrading of the Bureau's internet connection to cater to the growing demand in internet access and to speed up its network utility.

For. Gregorio Santos, Jr. served as one of the resource persons at the Environment and Natural Resources Technologies cum Stakeholders' Training Needs Assessment (TNA) on May 19, 2015 at the DENR Bldg., Ecology Center, Diliman, Quezon City. The forum, which is coordinated by ERDS-NCR, served as an avenue for the stakeholders to learn about the application of different Environment and Natural Resource (ENR) technologies and for them to have a basis of the technologies they prefer to adopt in their communities.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) conducted the Capacity Building on Batikuling Nursery and Plantation Establishment on December 5, 2014 at Paete, Laguna in close coordination with the local government unit of Paete. The whole-day event was graced by Paete Mayor Rojilyn Q. Bagabaldo and Vice Mayor Aurelio P. Paraiso.

The GAD-IEC (Gender and Development - Information and Education and Communication) team conducted the Gising Diwa on Nov. 20, 2014 in Bukal National High School, Brgy. Bukal, Cavinti, Laguna. The activity was conducted in partnership with the National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR).The lecturers in ERDB were composed of For. Romana A. Mauricio, Salvacion T. Orobia, and Marla V. Cambay. The other ERDB staff were Ms. Janice Cabuscabus and Mr. Richard Villarin who assisted in the conduct of the activity. The two staff from Napocor in Lumban, Laguna were For. Jesse Carlo P. Fajardo and For.Divina Lachica.

In order to create public consciousness on the role of biotechnology in food production, food security, and hunger alleviation, the 10th National Biotechnology Week had its opening ceremony on November 24, 2014 at the Commission on Higher Education in Diliman, Quezon City. The annual weeklong celebration had the theme, "Edukasyon sa Bioteknolohiya Pagyamanin para sa Kinabukasan Natin".

The DENR, through its Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), and Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC) further reinforced their clonal facility project with a training on macro-somatic clonal propagation held in BASC, San Ildefonso, Bulacan on November 18-19, 2014.

Twenty-four fishermen from Barangay Ginoong Sanay and Pinagdilawan conducted a cross-visit at the ERDB's bamboo and rattan demonstration areas on October 3, 2014. The fishermen are cooperators of ERDB's Partner-Bond Project which is being implemented in Talim island. The project is headed by Vienna O. Austria with Marla V. Cambay and Ma. Theresa M. Valencia as co-activity leader and project staff, respectively. The cooperators represent the 2 POs, Samahang Mangingisda ng Barangay Ginoong Sanay and Samahang Mangingisda ng Barangay Pinagdilawan.

In celebration of the 399^th Foundation Day of the Municipality of Los Baños, the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) joined the 140 delegates in the civic parade held on Sept. 17, 2014. The delegates came from government offices, NGOs and private individuals.

In an effort to promote the importance of bamboo and rattan in the Philippines, the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) established the bamboo and rattan gallery. The gallery serves as a repository of relevant research outputs, literatures and information including photos of various species and products of bamboos in the Philippines and neighboring countries.

The Los Baños Science Community (LBSC) hosted the Techno forum: Handa KNB sa Oras ng Kalamidad? on Sept. 11, 2014 at the NCAS (New College of Arts and Science) Auditorium, UPLB.

The DENR's Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), Forest Management Bureau, and 21 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) gathered in a midyear discussion at Kimberly Hotel, Manila on August 10-11 to fortify their quality seedling commitment for the National Greening Program (NGP).

Dinalupihan, Bataan, a town which specializes in the manufacture of "sawali" or bamboo mats, was the venue of bamboo training assisted by the DENR's Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) on August 5-6.

The DENR Youth Desk Training Team spearheaded the First Division Youth for Environment Summit (YES) in Basco, Batanes on May 15-17, 2014. The team was composed of the youth coordinators from DENR SCO, ERDB, MGB, LMB, NAMRIA, Regions 2 & 4A. The summit was held at the Batanes National Science High School, Basco, Batanes for the secondary level and at the Batanes Central School for the elementary level.

Striving to produce more relevant and timely issues of Sylvatrop, the Sylvatrop Editorial Board, the governing body on Sylvatrop, convened last July 3-4, 2014 at Lewis Grand Hotel in Angeles City, Pampanga to thresh out its issues and concerns.

The 2014 Celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity was held on May 22-23, 2014 at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center (NAPWC) in Quezon City. The celebration was highlighted with a youth summer camp with the theme "Island Biodiversity".

A four-day training on clonal propagation, nursery establishment, seed technology and mycorrhizal application was recently conducted by the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) Los Baños Laguna in collaboration with the Ecosystems Research and Development Service (ERDS) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 6 among State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the region.

The Department of Education-National Capital Region (DepEd-NCR) visited the Ecosystems Research Development Bureau's (ERDB's) research facilities for clonal nursery propagation and charcoal briquettes production last April 11, 2014. It is a kick-off activity to the 3-day strategic planning workshop spearheaded by DepEd-NCR in partnership with the Technology and Livelihood Education-Edukasyong Pantahanan and Pangkabuhayan Supervisors and Coordinators Association, Inc. (TLEEPPSCAI).

"Nueva Ecija intends to intercrop vetiver and napier in bamboo plantations", Governor Aurelio M. Umali said during the bamboo training held in this town on March 20-21.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) joined the Kick-off of the 2014 World Water Day held on March 17, 2014 at Angat Watershed in Norzagaray, Bulacan. As part of the kick-off program, ERDB showcased its first Interactive Exhibit featuring five vulnerable watersheds in the Philippines. Veering away from conventional forms of exhibits, ERDB took a light turn in making the topic more understandable and interesting to its viewers. Entitled "Watershedelikado: Building Resilient Communities through R&D", the vulnerabilities of Aringay Watershed in Benguet and La Union, Baco in Oriental Mindoro, Buhi in Camarines Sur, Gian in Sarangani and Davao Del Sur and Mt. Makiling in Laguna and Batangas were unveiled.

The ERDB GAD-IEC (Gender and Development - Information, Education and Communication) headed by For. Romana A. Mauricio successfully conducted the Gising Diwa on March 7, 2014 in Sta. Rosa Central III Elementary School. The participants were composed of selected Grade V students.

"What if I skip the nursery and plant bamboo cuttings directly into my two-hectare land?" asked Estrella B. Aucena, 49, a farmer, in the recent bamboo training assisted by Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-ERDB).

More than 10,000 "Juanas" and "Juans" from various government and private sectors convened at the Quirino Grandstand as early as 5:00 A.M. on March 8, 2014 (International Day of Women) to join the formation of woman human symbol. This is in line with the celebration of Women's Month for 2014 with the theme "Juana, ang Tatag Mo ay Tatag Natin sa Pagbangon at Pagsulong".

Recognizing the importance of writing media release as a means to promote ERDB as a research institution, the Technology Development Division (TDD) conducted the "Training on Writing Articles for Media Releases" on March 12-13, 2014 at the BP International Jamboree, Los Banos, Laguna.

In line with the Women's Month Celebration with the theme "Juana ang Tatag Mo ay Tatag Natin sa Pagbangon at Pagsulong", the ERDB joined the"Walk for A Cause" held on March 8, 2014 in Los Baños, Laguna. The local theme was "Tulong Sagip Buhay sa mga Biktima ng Kanser".

The month of March signals the opening of Women's Month celebration at ERDB. This year's theme is "Juana, Ang Tatag Mo ay Tatag Natin sa Pagbangon at Pagsulong". It gives special recognition to the strong and resilient "Juanas" who inspired everyone all over the country and across the globe. It also recognizes the role of women who untiringly volunteered themselves in time of disaster, conflict, and calamity and their overall contributions to progress.

More bamboo to grow at Fort Magsaysay. Acting Director Henry A. Adornado of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (right) and Major General Glorioso V. Miranda of the Philippine Army's 7th Infantry Division inked a memorandum of agreement on March 31 to jointly develop a 670-hectare plantation of bamboo and indigenous trees within Fort Magsaysay Military Reservation, Brgy. Caballero, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija. It is the second tie up of the two parties under the National Greening Program. The first agreement was signed in June 2013 in which both parties agreed to establish a huge 3,000-hectare plantation of pure bamboo in the reservation until 2016. (Text by Media Group, NGP-PQPM/Photo by Enrico Barbosa). ©pangetgawavillaspin

As part of its continuous effort in promoting its technologies, the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), 27 members of the 4H club from different cities and municipalities in Laguna and four municipal and provincial coordinators from Department of Agriculture were invited to visit the Los Baños Experimental Station (LBES) and the ERDB premises for Lakbay Aral on May 08, 2015.

More and more countries are now becoming interested in acquiring knowledge about bamboo and how this resource will be used in improving the quality of life of the people in the rural community. To cater to the needs of the International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR) member countries including those who have interest in bamboo, a capacity building titled, Seminar on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) of Bamboo Industry was held on April 9-23, 2015 at Beijing, China. The International Center for Bamboo and Rattan (ICBR) and INBAR organized the seminar which was sponsored by the State Forestry Administration (SFA) of the People's Republic of China.

Korea Forest Service (KFS) representatives were at the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) on April 21 for a consultation meeting on the proposed Department of Environment and Natural Resources-KFS cooperation project.

Various activities are scheduled for the celebration of the Women's Month 2014 at ERDB. This year's theme is "Juana, Ang Tatag Mo ay Tatag Natin sa Pagbangon at Pagsulong." The celebration pays tribute to the strong and resilient "Juanas" who brought inspiring changes here in the country and across the globe. It also recognizes the role of women who untiringly volunteered themselves in time of disaster, conflict, and calamity and their overall contributions to progress.

Nine members of the Local Government Unit of General Nakar, Quezon visited the Los Baños Experimental Station (LBES) and other facilities in Los Baños Laguna for a two-day Lakbay Aral as part of the ENR technology promotion through demonstration areas activity by the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) on April 23 to 24 2015.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) spearheaded the conduct of the 2015 Sylvatrop Writeshop last April 21-23, 2015 at Lohas Hotel, Clarkfield Zone, Clark, Pampanga.

"Bamboo as carbon sequestrator" was among the ideas pitched by DENR-ERDB to the participants of the bamboo training held in Aliaga, Nueva Ecija on January 29-30, 2014.

The ERDB GAD Focal Point System held its 1st regular meeting for 2014 on January 10, 2014 at the ERDB Conference Room. The meeting was held to discuss the reconstitution of the members of the focal point system.

Why experimental design is important. Dr. Leuvina M. Tandug, former DENR's Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) Director, talked on experimental design and data analysis in a seminar organized by ERDB for its junior researchers on April 14. "Biological research without experimental design would be a waste of government fund and cannot be considered a scientific work. Results are inconclusive and will not be accepted for publication as technical papers," said Dr. Tandug, a seasoned biometrician/statistician who has written 22 technical publications in her field of specialization. She advises researchers to consult a statistician when drafting research proposals, particularly on biological type of investigation (Photo and text by Media Group, NGP-PQPM). 

The 1^st ERDB General Assembly Meeting for CY 2014 was held on January 8. 2014 at the ERDB Auditorium, College, Laguna. A total of 338 employees attended the assembly of ERDB employees.

Five employees from the ERDB namely: Ms. Ma. Theresa Valencia, Ms. Lea Domasig, Ms. Marita Briz, Ms. Emma Paunlagui and Mr. Alexander Borja attended the "Testimonials on Women Economic Empowerment through Science and Technology" (TWEEST) Forum and Trade Fair on March 30. 2015 at the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARD), Los Banos, Laguna.

As part of Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau's (ERDB) technology promotion of ENR Ecosystems through demonstration areas activity, 29 participants consisting nine staff from the ERDB-NCR, 19 officials and staff from Brgy. Tumana, Marikina, City and a representative from Brgy. Holy Spirit Quezon City participated in the Lakbay Aral at the Los Baños Experiment Station (LBES) and other facilities in Los Baños, Laguna on April 15, 2015.

Many consider Friday the 13th as a day that brings bad luck. However, for the constituents of Southern Luzon State University (SLSU), December 13, 2013 was an auspicious day which held a lot of promise; for on a Friday the 13th, the DENR-NGP Clonal Forestry Complex of SLSU was inaugurated and blessed by the parish priest of Lucban, Quezon. Present during the event were faculty, officials, and students of SLSU; DENR representatives also graced the well-attended affair despite the morning drizzle.

Climate change has caused a great effect on the occurrence of natural disasters. It is on this context why the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) Gender and Development Focal Point System (GAD-FPS) is constantly concerned with helping the vulnerable sector of society particularly women. To attend to this, another seminar on disaster preparedness was conducted on March 17, 2015. This was attended by 55 female participants, mostly housewives who are residents of Los Baños, Laguna.

The baselining protocol for the National Greening Program (NGP) was unveiled in a national training held on February 23-27, 2015 at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources' ERDB.

In line with the celebration of Women's Month 2015, the ERDB GAD Focal Point System conducted the "On the Spot Painting Contest" on March 10, 2015 at the ERDB Auditorium. The contest is part of the gender advocacy program of the ERDB which aims to uncover the students' perception of the environment and determine their level of awareness and knowledge of gender roles in water conservation.

The ERDB through the Gender and Development Focal Point System (GADFPS) joined the nation in celebrating the Women's Month 2015. This year's theme is "Juana, Ang Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw Na" which pays tribute to all women leaders who passionately advance women's advocacies in leadership, power and decision making.

In line with the National Women's Month Celebration with the theme "Juana Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw Na", the ERDB joined the "Walk For A Cause" held on March 8, 2015 in Los Baños. The local theme was "Sama Ka! Ibangon at Tulungan ang mga Kababaihan Biktima ng Kanser" and "Los Baños is Rising -One Billion Rising through Strike/Dance/Rise" campaign program.

To come up with action plans for the National Greening Program (NGP) in 2015, the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) held a planning workshop in Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas from February 9-11, 2015.

The workshop on "Traditional Forest Knowledge for Ecosystem Services in ASEAN Countries" was held at the Crystal Crown Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on February 2 - 4, 2015. The said workshop was attended by Dr. Antonio M. Daño, ERDB OIC Assistant Director; Dr. Aurora S. Jose, Planning Officer and Ms. Karen Rose M. Fortus, project staff. The workshop aimed to share information and data for a better understanding on traditional forest knowledge in the context of ecosystem services.

Every project needs to end and project implementers need to ensure that all stakeholders are satisfied with what they have done and to deliver what they have promised. After one year of implementation, project implementers of the PARTNER-BOND (Pro-active Response towards Nurturing Environmental Relations: A Barangay Outreach Project based on Community Needs and Demands) Project conducted their last field visit in Talim island on January 21-23, 2015. The team was led by the activity leader, Ms. Vienna O. Austria together with Ms. Marla V. Cambay (co-activity leader) and Ms. Theresa M. Valencia (project staff).

LOS BAÑOS, LAGUNA - It is indeed a happy new year for the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) as it welcomes Dr. Henry A. Adornado as the new Director.

  ERDB conducted Information Education and Communication (IEC) on bamboo in relation to the rehabilitation project. The IEC was held at Brgy. Burgos, Rodriguez, Rizal on April 25, 2014 which was spearheaded by Dr. Lynlei L. Pintor. Fifty-two participants attended the IEC consisting of barangay officials, neighborhood associations, civic and youth organizations, and residents.

Alarmed by the dwindling source of bamboo in Talim Island due to environmental degradation, over cutting, and land conversion the ERDB through the PARTNER-BOND Project (Pro-Active Response Towards Nurturing Environmental Relations: A Barangay Outreach Project Based on Community Needs and Demands) conducted the Training on Bamboo Production Technology in Talim Island, Binangonan, Rizal on May 28-29, 2014.

The training aimed to orient and demonstrate to the participants the ERDB developed technology on "propagule production of kawayan tinik".

There were 30 participants in the training composed of the fishermen PO members of the 2 barangays (Samahang Mangingisda ng Brgy. Pinagdilawan and Barangay Ginoong Sanay).

The Philippine Society for the Study of Nature, Inc. held its 14th conference at the Benguet State University on May 21 - 23, 2014. The theme of the conference is "Private-Public Partnership: Creating Possibilities for a Responsible Resource Use". The sub-themes in the conference include environmental governance and people's participation, green technology and economy, environmental education and advocacy, partnership for the environment, and environmental research and methods.

The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) together with the Biodiversity and Watersheds Improved for Stronger Economy and Ecosystem Resilience (B+WISER), a project designed and funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), spearheaded the conduct of the National Workshop: Harmonizing the Guidelines on Mangrove and Beach Forests Development and Management held on June 26-27, 2014 at the Century Park Hotel, Manila.

Los Baños, Laguna - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) inaugurated a facility that will enhance performance of seedlings planted in degraded areas like mining sites, eroded and denuded lands and dry areas in the Philippines. The event was held on April 28, 2014 at the Science and Technology Park, UPLB, College, Laguna.