DMMMSU-National Apiculture Research Training and Development Institute (DMMMSU-NARTDI) team, led by Dr. Joseph A. Panas, the Executive Director, along with Ms. Mishima P. Soliba, Research Division Head, and Assist. Prof. Ison A. Calimpang attended the First Regional Livestock Biotechnology Symposium at FPJ Arena, San Jose, Batangas on October 10-11, 2024.

The symposium, titled “Gawang Pinoy, Tatak Biotek: Pagsulong sa Masaganang Industriya ng Paghahayupan” was organized by the Department of Agriculture-Livestock Biotechnology Center to showcase locally made products and inventions out of the biotechnology livestock industry. The event drew attendees from diverse government and private research institutions, farmers, cooperatives, and state universities and colleges nationwide, solidifying its impact and influence in advancing the industry.

The two-day symposium featured plenary sessions on scientific topics brought up by individuals known in the biotechnology field. The resource speakers came from the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC), UPLB-BIOTECH, University of the Philippines- Manila, and other institutes that practice biotechnology research and technologies. 

Dr. Raul B. Destura, a highly respected medical scientist and public health expert served as one of the plenary speakers and delivered strategies for integrated disease management, emphasizing the importance of biotechnology in addressing emerging diseases primarily caused by animals in the modern world.

Additionally, the symposium covered discussions on current and emerging biotechnology tools, breeding techniques, and policy frameworks for biotech livestock production were discussed.

This symposium provided insights and opportunities, particularly for NARTDI staff, to research bee and other honeybee by-products using biotechnology tools and techniques. (by Ison A. Calimpang)