21/05/2026
๐๐ข๐ฆ๐ง ๐ก๐๐ฒ๐๐ฎ ๐ฉ๐ถ๐๐ฐ๐ฎ๐๐ฎ ๐๐๐๐ฒ๐๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ง๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ต๐ป๐ผ๐น๐ผ๐ด๐ ๐ก๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ฎ๐ป๐ฎ๐ดโ๐ ๐๐ป๐๐ฒ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐บ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ฃ๐ผ๐๐๐ถ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐จ๐ฃ ๐๐๐๐ถ๐๐๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ
As part of its continuing efforts to promote science, technology, and innovation (STI)-based interventions for local enterprises, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) โ Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) Nueva Vizcaya conducted a Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) at Banagโs Integrated Farm in Barangay Lublub, Alfonso Castaรฑeda, Nueva Vizcaya.
The assessment was undertaken to evaluate the farmโs operations and identify potential technology interventions under the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). Banagโs Integrated Farm is engaged in various agricultural enterprises, including rabbit production, sheep raising, duck and goat farming, and citronella cultivation, showcasing its commitment to diversified and sustainable agriculture.
During the visit, DOST PSTO Nueva Vizcaya introduced the essential oil extraction technology utilizing the hydrodistillation method developed by the Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI). The technology offers opportunities for value-adding and product diversification, particularly for citronella growers and processors.
One of the key concerns raised during the assessment was the lack of access to an essential oil extraction facility in the locality, which limits the processing and commercialization potential of citronella products. Addressing this gap could enhance the farmโs productivity and create additional livelihood opportunities within the community.
The engagement was initiated following the participation of Mr. Reydante G. Banag, Manager of Banagโs Integrated Farm, in the 1st Citronella Congress held in Lal-lo, Cagayan on October 29โ30, 2025. The event provided a venue for knowledge exchange and opened opportunities for collaboration with DOST on possible technology-based interventions.
Through initiatives such as SETUP, DOST continues to assist local enterprises and agricultural producers by providing appropriate technologies and technical support aimed at improving productivity, increasing competitiveness, and fostering inclusive and sustainable rural development.