National Fruit Symposium gets record attendance
Margust Dela Cerna | August 19, 2024
The 31st National Fruit Symposium, held at Central Mindanao University in Bukidnon, saw an unprecedented turnout of 180 participants, reflecting strong support for the event’s focus on globalization.
With the theme “Adapting Fruit and Selected Plantation Crops Research, Innovation, and Extension Initiatives to Meet Changing Local and Global Market Needs,” the symposium was inaugurated by PFA President, Ms. Carolyn E. Alcasid. Dr. Rolito G. Eballe, President of Central Mindanao University, delivered a warm welcome address. Ms. Lucille T. Menguez, RCPC Center Chief, stood in for the keynote speaker, Engr. Roger V. Navarro, the current DA Undersecretary for Operations and Agri-Fisheries Mechanization.
A notable highlight was the launch of the “Training Manual on Mango Production in the Philippines,” a collaborative effort between CropLife Philippines and PhilFruits Association, Inc.
Participants gained valuable insights from plenary sessions, including Dr. Guinevere I. Ortiz, Postharvest Scientist at The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Ltd., who discussed “Trends in Fruit Production in Southeast Asia: Challenges and Opportunities.” Dr. Edward A. Barlaan, Professor Emeritus at the University of Southern Mindanao, shared innovations in “Cacao Bean Fermentation, Drying, and Grading: Implications for Growers, Processors, Products, and Markets.”
With the theme “Adapting Fruit and Selected Plantation Crops Research, Innovation, and Extension Initiatives to Meet Changing Local and Global Market Needs,” the symposium was inaugurated by PFA President, Ms. Carolyn E. Alcasid. Dr. Rolito G. Eballe, President of Central Mindanao University, delivered a warm welcome address. Ms. Lucille T. Menguez, RCPC Center Chief, stood in for the keynote speaker, Engr. Roger V. Navarro, the current DA Undersecretary for Operations and Agri-Fisheries Mechanization.
A notable highlight was the launch of the “Training Manual on Mango Production in the Philippines,” a collaborative effort between CropLife Philippines and PhilFruits Association, Inc.
Participants gained valuable insights from plenary sessions, including Dr. Guinevere I. Ortiz, Postharvest Scientist at The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Ltd., who discussed “Trends in Fruit Production in Southeast Asia: Challenges and Opportunities.” Dr. Edward A. Barlaan, Professor Emeritus at the University of Southern Mindanao, shared innovations in “Cacao Bean Fermentation, Drying, and Grading: Implications for Growers, Processors, Products, and Markets.”
