DMMMSU-National Apiculture Research Training and Development Institute (NARTDI) conducted a strategic meeting with the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office Region VII (DA-RFO7) on June 26, 2024.

The NARTDI team, headed by Mr. Arvin C. Tuyan, the Chief of the NARTDI extension division, engaged with the Regional Technical Director, Dr. Wilbert O. Castillo, and some local beekeepers to address critical challenges facing the industry, particularly in Cebu.

During the discussion, Dr. Castillo outlined plans to revitalize beekeeping in the province. “Some beekeepers in our area ceased their operations due to a shortage of queen bees. With the support of NARTDI, we plan to revive these operations and expand the number of active beekeepers,” he stated.

The meeting also provided a platform for beekeepers to voice their concerns over the industry’s decline, citing issues such as the scarcity of queen bee supplies crucial for colony expansion and replacement, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Acknowledging its shortcomings, especially in queen bee availability, the NARTDI team took responsibility and assumed to rectify these gaps. Mr. Tuyan affirmed their commitment at NARTDI to help strengthen beekeeping operations in Cebu and across other regions nationwide. (By Arvin C. Tuyan)