The National Apiculture Research Training and Development Institute (NARTDI) conducted a comprehensive site appraisal in Umingan, Pangasinan, to explore the integration of beekeeping into squash farming practices in Umingan, Pangasinan.

The NARTDI assessment team was led by Mr. Arvin C. Tuyan, Division Chief of Extension, Mr. David T. De Castro, Chief of the Innovation and Technology Commercialization, R&E Publication, and IEC Materials Development Division; Mr. Macdonald C. Acosta, Head of the NARTDI demonstration apiary project and Mr. Francis Ian Fontanilla, Staff of the institute. They visited several areas where squash farming is prevalent. They toured three barangays, namely Brgy. Diaz, Brgy. Luna Weste, and Brgy. Luna Este.

Mr. Tuyan and his team engaged with each barangay captain and some council members, explaining the integration scheme for beekeeping within their existing squash farming operations. The discussions also covered the selection of farmer representatives to attend beekeeping training at NARTDI to equip local farmers with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully implement and sustain beekeeping practices in their communities.

This site appraisal was prompted by the strong interest of Barangay Captain Raymundo Esperon Serdeniola of Diket, Umingan, Pangasinan, which he expressed during this visit at NARTDI as regards the integration of beekeeping into their agricultural practices. His goal is to enhance the farming techniques of squash farmers in Umingan, thereby promoting more efficient and sustainable agricultural practices in the area. (By Arvin C. Tuyan)