Written by Earl Joshua D. Pector
The University of the Philippines Agricultural and Applied Economics Circle (UP AAEC) hosted its culminating seminar titled “Harvesting Possibilities: Climate-Smart Solutions for a Sustainable Tomorrow” on March 22, 2025, at the Rural Economic Development and Renewable Energy Center (REDREC) Auditorium.
Arvin Joshua Barlongo, a registered agriculturist, served as the keynote speaker. In his talk, he shared valuable insights on various climate-smart practices and technologies across different agricultural fields. Among the topics discussed were innovations in horticulture such as bio-intensive gardening, hydroponics, and organic agriculture. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of permaculture as a sustainable approach to land use.
IN PHOTO: Registered Agriculturist Arvin Joshua Barlongo discusses innovative farming solutions and sustainable agriculture practices. Photo Taken by Earl Joshua Pector
The seminar also covered advancements in agronomy, focusing on climate-smart practices such as biofertilizers, resistant crop varieties, organic fertilizers, and soil erosion control techniques like Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT). In addition, small agrofruit livelihood technologies were introduced as viable opportunities for small-scale farmers.
Inventions like HormoGroe, a plant growth regulator that increases crop yields, were showcased alongside renewable energy solutions like the biogas reactors and digesters, which generate electricity for nearby communities. Moreover, Barlongo mentioned the critical role of agricultural extension and communication in promoting sustainable farming practices and translating scientific knowledge into real-world applications.
Barlongo stressed that the technologies he discussed would be ineffective if not properly communicated to farmers. “Lahat ng mga technologies na na-discuss ko kanina, it will be useless if hindi siya maitra-translate sa farmers natin. Hindi naman pwedeng develop lang tayo nang develop ng mga technologies tapos hindi siya naaapply.”
“I believe that it is important for us na magkaroon ng mga ganitong events to explore what agriculture has for us and what agriculture is all about. I believe that together, we can sprout up, and together, we can be agents of change, driving climate-smart solutions for a sustainable tomorrow,” Barlongo added.
In the end, the seminar featured a question-and-answer portion, where students engaged with Barlongo on the challenges facing agriculture today. Following the discussions, certificates were awarded to the 19 participating schools, including Camarines Norte National High School, Lyceum of Alabang, Liceo de Los Baños, Camarines Norte Senior High School, Latagan High School, Victorias City Farm School, and Philippine Science High School – Bicol Region Campus.
Other awardees included Philippine Science High School – CALABARZON Region Campus, Vinzons Pilot High School, Philippine Science High School – Central Luzon Campus, Mindoro State University Main Campus, and Good Shepherd Academy of Victoria, Inc. Maon Integrated School, St. Bridget College Batangas City, Libertad National High School, Tuguegarao City Science High School, Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School, Philippine Science High School – Cagayan Valley Campus, and Tabaco National High School.
IN PHOTO: Certificates were awarded to participating schools in recognition of their time
and dedication to the event. Photo Taken by Earl Joshua Pector
According to Rainie Dampitan, a member of UP AAEC, the core significance of Agrikon is to inspire and encourage high school students to pursue agriculture-related degrees.
This initiative is part of the annual Agrikonomiya, which carries this year’s theme, “Uncharted Territory: Exploring New Visions and Innovations for the Advancement of Philippine Agriculture.” It serves as the flagship event of UP AAEC, engaging students nationwide in promoting awareness and appreciation for agriculture and its role in the economy.
