The Sorsogon State University Castilla Pili Extension team conducted a two-day monitoring activity of dispersed pili seedlings with farmer partners in Brgy. Salvacion on September 5-6, 2024.
This initiative is part of the university’s ongoing commitment to supporting local farmers in enhancing pili production through continuous field assessments and technical guidance. The monitoring activity focused on evaluating the growth and health of the pili seedlings by assessing key parameters such as height, canopy size, girth, and leaf count. Soil conditions were also analyzed to determine fertility status, which plays a crucial role in seedling development.
During the visit, the team engaged directly with farmer partners, including Mr. Richard Gonzales, Mr. Rolando Jarilla, Ms. Juvith Astano, Ms. Daria Esclamador and Mrs. Belen. Through interviews, the farmers shared their experiences, challenges, and concerns in nurturing the pili seedlings. The feedback gathered from these interactions is vital for developing targeted intervention plans and strategies to enhance seedling growth and ensure better outcomes for future harvests.
The on-site evaluation was conducted by Dr. Oscar Peter Pascual, Dr. Cristy Jintalan, Ms. Maribel Nolla, Ms. Alet Bacelonia, Mr. Rey Ariola, Mr. Lester Lleva, and Mr. Brian Gabriel J. Buenaobra. On the second day, the team was joined by Extension Director Dr. Ana Cristina Fortes, Castilla Extension Coordinator Ms. Ira M. Habla, and Extension staff members Ms. Shiela Duka and Ms. Lea Calleja. Dr. Fortes and her team identified areas for improvement in the conduct of monitoring activities for ongoing extension projects.
This regular monitoring of the DA-funded, “Massive Seedling Production and Distribution under Bayanihan II: Establishment Center” is part of the sustained project under the Pili Center of Sorsogon State University headed by Dr. Pascual assisted by the extension staff, Ms. Bacelonia, and field personnel, Mr. Lleva and Mr. Ariola. The project is an essential component of the university’s extension program. It not only supports farmers in their efforts but also provides valuable data that informs ongoing research and extension activities aimed at promoting sustainable pili production in the region.
