Researchers/Extensionists from the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-Sericulture Research and Development Institute (DMMMSU-SRDI) achieved remarkable recognition at the 2024 Philippine Association of Extension Program Implementors, Inc. (PAEPI) International Conference held at Maejo University, Chiang Mai, Thailand, on December 13, 2024. Competing under two distinct categories, they showcased the potential and profitability of sericulture as a sustainable livelihood in the Philippines.
Ms. Pura S. Obille secured 3rd Best Paper under the Entrepreneurship and Circular Economy category for her extension paper, “Showcasing a Profitability Package on Sericulture in the Philippine Setting: The Case of the Baroro Sericulture Demonstration Farm.” The study highlights the economic viability of sericulture in a national context, emphasizing its potential to generate income and promote sustainability.
Meanwhile, Ms. Conchita Almojuela also earned 3rd Best Paper in the Agriculture, Food, and Environment category for her work, “Sericulture: A Productive and Profitable Livelihood in a Rural Community in Northern Philippines.” Her extension paper demonstrates how sericulture can transform rural communities by providing sustainable income opportunities while fostering environmental stewardship.
They were joined by DMMMSU-URDI and other SRDI delegates, Prof. Emerita Galiste, Prof. Rodolfo Nillo, Ms. Janet Manuel, Mr. Julius Peter Hufalar, and Ms. Edwina Garcia who also participated in the event. Together, they showcased DMMMSU-SRDI’s innovative contributions to sericulture, gaining valuable insights and building networks with international experts in extension program implementation.
These recognitions underline DMMMSU-SRDI’s commitment to promoting sericulture as a sustainable livelihood option for farmers and communities in the Philippines. The insights from these extension papers provide concrete evidence of the profitability and scalability of sericulture, inspiring clientele to adopt innovative practices for enhanced productivity. (By Junalyn C. Dasugo)
