Institutionalizing Western Visayas harmonized agri-fishery research network underway

To enhance the region’s research, development, and extension (R4DE) priorities for the agriculture and fishery sectors, the Department of Agriculture (DA) recently held a transition meeting in Iloilo City to establish the Agriculture and Fisheries Resources, Research, and Extension for Development Network (AFRREDN).

The merger of the existing Western Visayas Regional Research Development and Extension Network (WESVIRRDEN) and the DA-Agricultural Training Institute’s Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Network (RAFEN) into AFRREDN aims to facilitate the effective implementation of relevant, inclusive, and well-coordinated R4DE programs.

Through this network, the DA Bureau of Agricultural Research will collaborate seamlessly with other DA bureaus, attached agencies with research and extension functions, State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), and other national government agencies.

With AFRREDN at the helm, all stakeholders are gearing toward conducting research studies focused on verifying technologies with potential impacts on productivity and profitability. Simultaneously, they aim to promote mature technologies to farmers and fisherfolk. On the other hand, SUCs and commodity-focused research institutes will conduct basic research and technology generation.

The network will ensure the proper generation, dissemination, and scaling of agri-fishery technologies to address the needs of farmers and fishers. Moreover, it will establish a comprehensive database or inventory detailing Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) activities, expertise, resources, and facilities of participating institutions.

Zarlina B. Cuello, the DA Western Visayas’ OIC-Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, addresses integrative challenges in agriculture and fishery. Highlighting the need for research and development (R&D) to guide the sector, Cuello said “Our goal is to transform research into tangible results for rural farmers. We are providing strong structures and policy reforms to bridge the gap between agricultural research and development.”

Cuello emphasized the need for increased collaboration with DA, line agencies, and academe to develop solutions that address climate change and promote automation and digitalization in agriculture.###SMHToreno/DA-RAFIS 6