Representatives from the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Paracelis, Mountain Province, headed by Sangguniang Bayan Member Hon. Alfredo T. Assud Jr. and Municipal Agriculturist/HVCDP Coordinator Ms. Luthgarda T. Fangonon, together with selected officers and members of the Mababbalin Farmers Association with its President Ms. Grace  T. Bongorngor embarked on an educational tour at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University – National Apiculture Research Training and Development Institute (DMMMSU-NARTDI), Sapilang, Bacnotan, La Union.

“Mababbalin,” a term in one of the native dialects of Paracelis, meaning “Productive,” aptly encapsulates the aspirations of the association as they set out to enhance their skills in apiculture through this visit.

The association members had undergone basic beekeeping training facilitated by NARTDI in July 2023. Equipped with newfound knowledge and enthusiasm, the association started their beekeeping venture by establishing their apiary after their training. With their interest in increasing their technical know-how in beekeeping through the LGU Paracelis, they reached NARTDI to further enrich their understanding of beekeeping practices.

During their visit, the group was treated to a comprehensive tour of NARTDI’s operations, which encompassed every aspect of beekeeping, from hive management at the apiary to the process of honey extraction, value-adding of products, and bee pasture development.

Seeking to broaden their perspectives, NARTDI staff headed by Ms. Mishima P. Soliba, OIC Chief of the General Administrative & Support Services Division, led the group on a tour to Bacnotan, La Union, where they had the privilege of engaging with a seasoned beekeeper in the municipality, and a visit to the LGU Municipal Agriculture Office and Office of the Sangguniang Bayan allowing them to glean insights into the strategic approach of the LGU towards their beekeeping project.

At the Municipality of Bacnotan, La Union, Hon. Vice Mayor Francisco Angelito L. Fontanilla and Municipal Agriculture Officer Dr. Divina Gracia G. Apigo emphasized the LGU’s full support for the beekeeping industry, including budget allocations for local beekeepers of the municipality. Also, Mr. Adamor L. Dagang, Secretary to the Sanggunian, presented the programs and strategies of the LGU towards the development of beekeeping in the municipality.

Reflecting on the significance of the educational tour, the Association President, Ms. Bongorngor, remarked: “This educational tour has been transformative for our association. We’ve deepened our understanding of beekeeping and forged invaluable connections with experts and fellow beekeepers.  (By Arvin C. Tuyan)