San Jorge Experiment Station - DA RFO VIII

27/08/2026

On August 19–20, 2026, the San Jorge Experiment Station (SJES) participated as Resource Speakers in the Soybean Techno-Demo Establishment conducted in Salcedo, Eastern Samar, an initiative of the National Corn Program, led by Regional Corn Program Focal Mr. Leandro Baula, with Ms. Jane Bula of the Corn Program.

The two-day activity brought together representatives of local Farmers’ Associations and Barangay Agriculture Extension Workers to strengthen their knowledge and skills in soybean production. SJES Resource Speakers April Rose Robles and Julito Herbolario Jr. shared practical, location-responsive technologies and hands-on guidance covering key areas of soybean production, including:
🌱 Soybean Planting and Establishment
🌱 Crop Culture and Management
🌱 Soybean Varieties and Growth Stages
🌱 Insect Pests and Diseases Management
🌱 Harvesting and Postharvest Technology

The activity emphasized proper crop management and the adoption of appropriate technologies to improve soybean productivity and profitability. It also highlighted the importance of collaboration among the National Corn Program, SJES, local government units, agricultural technicians, extension workers, and farmers in promoting soybean production as a viable agricultural enterprise.

SJES sincerely appreciates the continued support of the National Corn Program, particularly Regional Corn Program Focal Mr. Leandro Baula, for providing us the opportunity to share the knowledge, technologies, and practical insights gained from our ongoing soybean research and development initiatives. This collaboration enables us to contribute to strengthening soybean technology adoption and promotion, as well as farmer capacity-building, toward increased local soybean production and improved farmer livelihoods.

Our sincere appreciation also goes to the Barangay Council of Naparaan for the venue and hospitality, OIC-Municipal Agriculturist Engr. Madonna Urmeneta for her leadership and support, Corn Program Coordinator Norlit Berongoy, Agriculture Technician Alimar Enderion, and Agriculturist II/APCO for Eastern Samar and Samar Mary Grace Palconit for their valuable assistance and coordination.
Through initiatives like this, SJES remains committed to sharing science-based technologies and working with our partners toward increased local soybean production, improved farmer livelihoods, and a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector.

Together, let us grow soybean production in Eastern Visayas! 🌱

26/08/2026

🌱 FARMERS’ FIELD DAY HIGHLIGHTS PROMISING FUTURE OF SOYBEAN PRODUCTION IN PAMBUJAN, NORTHERN SAMAR 🌱

The San Jorge Experiment Station (SJES) successfully conducted a Farmers’ Field Day on August 18, 2026 at Brgy. Cababtoan, Pambujan, Northern Samar, under the R&D project “Development and Adoption of Location-Specific Technology for Soybean Production and Postharvest in Region 8.”

The activity was conducted in close collaboration with the Municipal Agriculture Office of Pambujan, through Municipal Agricultural Officer Engr. George de la Rosa, and was graced by OIC-Mayor Hon. Daisy D. Balanquit, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture of the Municipality.

In her inspirational message, Hon. Balanquit reaffirmed the Local Government Unit’s strong and unwavering support for soybean development, recognizing the crop’s brighter prospects and the availability of a ready market. She emphasized that, given the growing potential of soybean, it is a shared duty and commitment of the government, researchers, agricultural technicians, farmers, and other stakeholders to work together in increasing local soybean production.

She further underscored that strengthening domestic soybean production can contribute to food security and help reduce the country’s dependence on imported soybean and soybean-based products. This shared responsibility, she emphasized, calls for sustained collaboration, technology adoption, and collective action to develop a stronger and more resilient local soybean industry.

The Farmers’ Field Day provided farmers with an opportunity to directly observe and learn from the field through a Learning Walk and technology demonstrations covering land preparation and planting management, crop management practices, variety and fertilizer demonstrations, harvesting, and postharvest practices.

Results and observations from previous cropping seasons were also presented. These provided farmers with practical evidence on soybean performance under local conditions and generated encouraging interest in soybean production, particularly as a potential rotation crop following rice and corn.

The activity was further strengthened by the sharing of experiences and insights from farmer-leaders. Mr. Enrico Acedera, President of the Lao-ang Mainland Farmers Association, delivered a message of encouragement to fellow farmers, while Mr. Jaime Balanday, President of the San Ramon Farmers Association, shared the farmers’ feedback and impressions on the technologies demonstrated and the prospects of soybean production in their communities.

The Farmers’ Field Day brought together representatives from seven (7) farmers’ associations, namely:
🌱 St. Isidore Farmers Association
🌱 San Ramon Farmers Association
🌱 Canjumadal Farmers Association
🌱 Giparayan Farmers Association
🌱 Canadian Farmers Association
🌱 Cababtoan Farmers Association
🌱 Pambujan Farmers Association

The strong participation and positive response from the farmers demonstrate the growing interest in soybean and the potential for expanding its production in Northern Samar and other areas of Eastern Visayas.

More than a field demonstration, the activity served as a platform for knowledge sharing, farmer engagement, and collective commitment toward building a stronger local soybean industry. With continued collaboration among the Department of Agriculture, local government units, researchers, agricultural technicians, farmers’ organizations, and other stakeholders, soybean can become an increasingly important commodity in supporting food security, improving farmers’ livelihoods, and reducing dependence on imports.

🌱 From research to the field. From technology to adoption. From local production to food security.
Together, let us grow more soybeans, strengthen our local production, and contribute to a more food-secure and self-reliant Philippines. 🇵🇭🌱

25/08/2026

The San Jorge Experiment Station (SJES), in collaboration with the Regional Corn Program and Farmers Association of Laoang, conducted a two-day Soybean Technology Demonstration Training on August 4–5, 2026, in Laoang, Northern Samar. The activity aimed to promote soybean production as a crop diversification strategy and enhance the knowledge and skills of local farmers and agricultural personnel. Participants included members of a Rice Seed Growers’ Cluster, LGU representatives, and agricultural technicians, including Mr. George dela Rosa, Municipal Agriculturist of Pambujan, and Mr. Juvan N. Jepollo, representing the LGU of Laoang togethe wiith his colleagues.

Technical sessions were facilitated by SJES resource persons, with Mr. Ronel C. Gildore discussing soybean production and agronomic practices, Ms. Jeralyn Morte covering pest and disease management, and Ms. Jane Gwyneth Bula discussing harvesting and post-harvest handling. The training also featured a field demonstration led by the combined SJES and Regional Corn Program resource team, providing participants with hands-on experience in applying recommended soybean technologies.

The activity concluded with an open forum and sharing of participants’ experiences and reflections. Overall, the training strengthened the capacity of farmers and agricultural stakeholders in soybean production and demonstrated its potential as a viable crop diversification option for rice-based farming communities in Northern Samar.

07/08/2026

On July 28–29, 2026, the Soybean Technology Demonstration Training on the Establishment of Technology Demonstration was conducted at the City Agriculture Department, Barangay San Pablo, Ormoc City. The activity was undertaken in support of the implementation of the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office VIII (DA-RFO VIII) Corn Program, particularly in promoting soybean production technologies and strengthening the technical capacity of agricultural personnel and farmers.

The training was attended and supported by key personnel from the City Agriculture Department and the DA-RFO VIII Corn Program. Among those were Mr. Dante Albarico, OIC-City Agriculturist; Mr. Leandro C. Baula, Regional Corn Coordinator; Mr. Fabian S. Aldiano, Senior Agriculturist of Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer of 4th and 5th District of Leyte; Ms. Jane Gwyneth Bula, Corn Program Staff; and Mr. Andrew Ronato, Corn Program Staff. Also providing support to the activity was Mr. Elmer Obus, who facilitated the field area to be used for the technology demonstration.

Serving as resource persons were Mr. Ronel C. Gildore and Ms. April Rose D. Robles, who shared their technical knowledge and practical experience on soybean production and the proper establishment of technology demonstration areas. The discussions focused on important considerations in site preparation, crop establishment, appropriate management practices, and the monitoring of soybean growth and performance.

The activity was also actively participated in by LGU staff and farmers from Ormoc City, whose involvement was an essential part of the training. Their participation provided an opportunity for direct interaction, knowledge exchange, and clarification of practical concerns related to soybean production. More importantly, the presence of the farmers helped ensure that the technologies being introduced were discussed within the context of actual farming conditions and needs.

A significant component of the training was the preparation and establishment of the field demonstration area, made possible through the assistance of Mr. Elmer Obus, LGU staff and the cooperation of the participating personnel and farmers. The demonstration site is expected to serve as a practical learning area where recommended soybean production technologies can be observed, monitored, and evaluated under local conditions.

The training highlighted the importance of technology demonstration as an effective extension strategy, allowing farmers to see firsthand the application and potential benefits of recommended agricultural practices. It also strengthened collaboration among the DA-RFO VIII Corn Program, the City Agriculture Department, LGU personnel, and the farming community.

Overall, the two-day activity provided a valuable platform for technical learning, field-based application, and partnership building. Through the combined efforts of the resource persons, Corn Program personnel, City Agriculture Department, LGU staff, field facilitator, and participating Ormoc farmers, the training contributed to the continuing promotion of soybean production and crop diversification in support of sustainable agricultural development.

06/08/2026

On June 19, 2026, personnel from the DA-San Jorge Experiment Station, actively participated in the Tree Planting Activity held at the Samar Provincial Tree Nursery (Sub-Nursery) in Barangay San Vicente, Catbalogan City, Samar. The activity formed part of the Province of Samar’s celebration of Philippine Environment Month 2026, carrying the theme “Aksyon Klima: Bayanihan, Mapagkalinga sa Kapaligiran.”

The environmental initiative was spearheaded by the Provincial Government of Samar, under the leadership of Governor Sharee Ann Tan, in coordination with the Office of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (OPENRO) headed by Mr. Wilfredo Lacambra. The activity brought together personnel and representatives from different government offices and partner organizations in a shared effort to promote environmental conservation, climate action, and responsible stewardship of natural resources.

Representing the San Jorge Experiment Station were Nemesio Platino, Rey Aniano, Jonathan Atega, Julito Herbolario Jr., Joegie Cabubas, Alan Olayvar, and Roberto Cabubas. The staff actively took part in the tree planting activities, demonstrating the station's support for programs that contribute to environmental protection and the restoration and preservation of natural resources.

Beyond the actual planting of trees, the activity served as a reminder of the important role that government institutions and communities play an important role in addressing environmental challenges. Tree planting contributes to watershed protection, soil conservation, biodiversity enhancement, carbon sequestration, and the improvement of local ecosystems, making collective efforts such as this valuable in building more resilient communities.

The participation of the San Jorge Experiment Station also emphasized the close relationship between agriculture and environmental sustainability. Healthy forests, watersheds, and ecosystems contribute significantly to productive agricultural lands and the long-term welfare of farming communities. By joining the activity, the office reaffirmed its commitment not only to agricultural development but also to the responsible management and protection of the environment.

Overall, the Philippine Environment Month Tree Planting Activity demonstrated the value of bayanihan and inter-agency cooperation in protecting Samar's natural resources. Through the combined efforts of the Provincial Government of Samar, OPENRO, participating agencies, and personnel, the activity contributed to the continuing advocacy for a greener, healthier, and more sustainable Samar.

05/08/2026

On July 3, 2026, San Jorge Experiment Station actively participated in the Serbisyo Caravan held at Barangay Cantaguic, San Jorge, Samar, an initiative of the Municipal Government of San Jorge aimed at bringing essential government programs and services closer to the community.

The activity was conducted under the leadership of Municipal Mayor Hon. Leoncio De Guia, with the participation of various municipal offices, partner agencies, barangay officials, and community members. The agriculture sector was represented by Municipal Agriculturist Mr. Jason Fabillar, while SJES was represented by Ms. Jeralyn E. Morte, accompanied by members of our staff – Mr. Bryan Brazil and Mr. Roberto Cabubas.

The Serbisyo Caravan provided a range of government services, including health services, civil registration, assistance programs, agricultural services, peace and safety initiatives, and other forms of public assistance. Through the collective efforts of the participating offices, residents were given easier access to programs and services designed to respond to their immediate needs and support their overall well-being.

Most importantly, the activity would not have been meaningful without the enthusiastic participation of our farmers. Their presence, cooperation, and active engagement gave true purpose to the Serbisyo Caravan. As key partners and beneficiaries of agricultural programs and government services, their participation strengthened the connection between the local government and the farming community. Their willingness to take part in the activity demonstrated the importance of bringing services directly to the people they are intended to serve.

The active involvement of Ms. Jeralyn E. Morte and the office staff, together with the support of Mayor Leoncio De Guia, Municipal Agriculturist Jason Fabillar, other government personnel, barangay officials, and the farmers of Barangay Cantaguic, contributed greatly to the successful conduct of the activity.

Overall, the Serbisyo Caravan 2026 highlighted the value of collaboration, community participation, and responsive governance. It served not only as an avenue for delivering government services but also as an opportunity to strengthen partnerships with the community, particularly with our farmers, whose participation remains essential in making public service truly meaningful and effective.

04/08/2026

📌 SJES HIGHLIGHT 📌

🏆 CHAMPIONING SAMAR’S AGRI-RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT! 🌾✨

Living up to its mandate of advancing agricultural research and sharing impactful results, the San Jorge Experiment Station brought home major awards during the Level 2 Inter-agency RDE Review held on July 30–31, 2026, at ATI, VSU, Baybay City, Leyte!

Out of 15 competing research papers across the cluster 2 member agencies and SUCs, three key projects led by Dr. Joel A. Cantoneros earned top awards:

🥇 1st Place (On-going Development Category):
Heirloom Rice Seed Development & Commercialization Project

🥈 2nd Place (On-going Development Category):
Agri-enterprise Development of Kalinayan in Samar Province
(Both top-winning projects focus on promoting and scaling Kalinayan heirloom rice—the proud champion commodity of Samar!)

🥉 3rd Place (On-going Applied Research Category):
Verification Trial of Variety on the Location-Specific Production Technology of Sorghum in Eastern Visayas

🤝 This milestone is a shared victory! Deepest gratitude to our partner LGUs and partner agencies whose collaborative support made these projects a success.

To the incredible R&D Team of San Jorge Experiment Station: Padayon! Puhon, we will attain all our goals and vision for our farming communities and clienteles. 🌾💪

29/07/2026

29/07/2026

SJES HIGHLIGHTS
🌾 SAMAR’S HEIRLOOM RICE TAKES CENTER STAGE AT RNOPEX 2026! 🌾
The San Jorge Experiment Station (SJES), through its project 'Agri-Enterprise Development of Purified Kalinayan,' participated in the 3-day Regional Natural and Organic Expo (RNOE) 2026 from July 22 to 24, 2026, at Robinsons North Abucay, Tacloban City. The event was organized by the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) and the Organic Agriculture Program.
Walk in buyers and agribusiness partners got a first-hand tasteand whiff of what makes Purified Kalinayan Rice special—from its rich, appetizing aroma to its exceptional culinary quality. As the champion commodity and pride of Samar province, Kalinayan continues to prove that traditional upland rice can compete on a bigger stage! 🍚✨
More than just a product showcase, the 3-day expo served as a key platform to: ✅ Promote Samar's premium heirloom upland rice ✅ Expand consumer and market awareness ✅ Build strong market linkages and strategic partnerships for our local farmers
Together, we are bridging local agricultural heritage with sustainable enterprise! 🚜💚

24/07/2026

📢 SJES HIGHLIGHTS 📊✨
Farmers’ Field Day on Sorghum Varietal Trial | July 21, 2026
📍 Brgy. Sta. Cruz & Brgy. Balugo, Tarangnan, Samar

Science meets the field! The San Jorge Experiment Station (SJES), spearheaded by the Project Leader Dr. Joel A. Cantoneros, successfully facilitated a Farmers’ Field Day focused on Sorghum Varietal Trials.

Highlights at a Glance:
🌿 Participatory Evaluation: Local farmers actively engaged in an early field walk and Participatory Varietal Selection (PVS) in Brgy. Sta. Cruz, choosing the top-performing sorghum varieties best adapted to their local microclimate.
📈 Data & Alignment: During the program proper in Brgy. Balugo, key agronomic, yield, and selection data were shared. LGU Tarangnan reaffirmed its strong commitment to driving sorghum production initiatives in partnership with DA.

Special thanks to Municipal Agriculturist Ms. Trinidad Olaje and her team, Regional Corn Program Representative Ms. Jessica Cebuano, and our hardworking local farmers for making this activity a resounding success! 👏