ISSN 0118-0371 Vol. 15 No.

1 Official Publication of the Office of Extension Services January-June 2014

 News
3 FOREFATHERS’ FARMING
PRACTICES REVISITED ABOUT THE COVER
Benguet Arabica is
4 CAR STRENGTHENS considered one of the best
BEE KEEPING INDUSTRY coffees in the Philippines.
The photo shows Dapilpil
6 BEES TO STING UP THE Goyo, an organic Arabica
MARKET Coffee grower of Pacso
,Kabayan.

8 NOARDC CONDUCTS Winnowing dehulled coffee

TRAININGS ON ORGANIC is one of the traditional
AGRICULTURE practices of coffee growers
in Benguet. The photo was
9 DEP-ED CAR UNDERGOES taken during the survey of
BSU-IHFSA around Benguet.
TRAINING // photo by: VYAmado

Feature
10 CULTURAL MANAGEMENT
Rangtay aims to bridge the Benguet State University with its clientele
PRACTICES IN ARABICA COFFEE
through technology and information exchange. The Extension
BOOSTS BEAN QUALITY
Office hopes that research breakthroughs of the University be made
available on time for the use of farmers, students, extension workers,
Researches researchers, and other stakeholders in the field of agriculture. This is
our humble contribution for the advancement of agriculture in our
12 BOOSTING POTTED
communities.
ARABICA
COFFEE SEEDLINGS
CALL FOR CONTRIBUTIONS
13 WET AND DRY FERMENTATION
OF ARABICA COFFEE BEANS
Readers are invited to share their views, articles, and photos through
COMPARED
this publication. Opinions and views expressed in the articles and
letters do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editors or the BSU
COFFEE FACTS
Research and Extension Services Group.

14 NEGOTIATING CLIMATE
CHANGE IN BENGUET Entered as Second Class Mail at the La Trinidad Post Office
Mailing Address:
15 BSND EXTEND HELPFUL Office of Extension Services Benguet State Univeristy,
PROGRAMS IN KAPANGAN La Trinidad, Benguet 2601
Telephone :(074) 422-1877
16 BRINGING SCIENCE e-mail address: ovpre.po@gmail.com
TO PEOPLE

Editor-in-Chief: Christine Grace B. Sidchogan. Lay-out Artist/Writer: Marie Fe Balangay Wance. Editorial Consultants/Advisers:
Ben D. Ladilad. Luciana M. Villanueva. Silvestre L. Kudan. Circulation Assistant: Gerry Anne W. Calabis. Contributors: Sherielyn
B. Banglig. Herman B. Danis. Noel Lenguaje. Photo Contributor: Jennyline Sabado- Tabangcura. Von. Y. Amado

Research as an Answer to Needed Growth through Technology Availment and Yearning

2 RANGTAY I JAN-JUN 2014 I Vol. 15 No. 1

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE OFFICE OF EXTENSION
 NEWS
Forefathers’ farming practices
revisited during the BSU
Heralds-sa-Barangay

J ust like our forefathers before, the pool of experts

from Benguet State University shared the same
farming practices when asked by the participants
during the Community-Based Agriculture Forum in
Sinacbat, Bakun, Benguet on how to prevent plant and
animal diseases in organic way.

The forum is under the BSU-Heralds-sa-Barangay program of the

Training and Outreach Division (TOD) of the Office of Extension
Services. It aims to activate the BSU heralds [pool of experts] in
bringing good news [in the form of mature technologies] to host
communities. This is in partnership with IYAMAN Inc. and Sinacbat-
BLGU that was conducted in March 14, 2014

The BSU HERALDS sat with one hundred forty (140) participants
during the forum to cater queries among community residents
regarding crop and livestock production. These include the well-
known “Bassit a Lakay” on BSU-on-the-Air, Dr. Silvestre L. Kudan for
crop production; Dr. Asuncion L. Nagpala for plant diseases; Prof.
Alexander W. Fagyan for soil science; Prof. Mary Arnel D. Garcia for
animal science; and Ms. Cynthia G. Kiswa for root crops.

At the start of the program, Dr. Constantino T. Sudaypan Sr., Training

and Outreach Division Head, encouraged the participants to take the
opportunity to ask questions to the expert.
With this, the participants asked questions, shared experiences
and brought specimens of diseased plants and soil samples. Bulks
of questions raised were on diseases of rice, bell pepper, tomatoes,
beans, banana, root crops such as taro and sweet potato, and diseases
of cattle, chicken and pig.
A participant during the Community-based Agriculture Forum
inquires about the diseases and/or cause and recommendation
of her attacked bell pepper and calamansi plants. In most cases,
symptoms of different plant diseases are similar, thus, bringing
specimens is helpful in determining the causal factors. //Photo
by: JSTabangcura

“Agrisulta iti nasalun-at nga mula no
nasalun-at met laeng ti idaga (Healthy
soil will lead/produce healthy plants), Dr.
Nagpala said. Improving the condition of
the soil is essential in helping the plants to
be resistant to diseases. She also said that
using clean planting material, practicing
crop rotation and sanitation are essential.
For animal diseases, Prof. Garcia shared
that plants available around could be
utilized to treat animal diseases. For
instance, sunflower and chili pepper
extract could be applied to the skin of
animals to control flea.
It was also noted that most of the
farmers are unaware that their practices
could lead to the occurrence and spread of
plant diseases.
According to the experts, plant diseases
are caused by various factors such as nutrient
deficiency, occurrence of pest, and condition
of the soil. Thus, experts emphasized that
farmers should consider these factors before
immediately applying fertilizer or pesticides.
Also, diseased plants parts should not
be left along the canals or in the garden.
Instead, collecting these then burying or
burning them away from the garden will help
in eradicating the sources of the disease.
Participants also expressed their interest
on organic agriculture. Practices before
could be the same, however, soil condition
is different now. Thus, along the discussion,
experts explained the processes in venturing
to organic agriculture.
The “Bassit a Lakay” then shared his
experiences in practicing organic farming.
At the end of the forum, Dr. Kudan said
“Kas dawat yo ken dawat mi, sapay koma ta
maitultuloy daytoy nga relasyon” (as requested
by you (Sinacbat) and BSU, we hope that
we continue this partnership). In line with
this, Dr. Kudan mentioned a possibility of a
Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between
BSU and Sinacbat because BSU desires to
establish linkages with communities.
Likewise, the pool of experts encouraged
the participants to avail of the services of Plant
Health Clinic; Soil Analysis Laboratory; and
clean planting materials of BSU in assistance to
their venture to organic agriculture and in their
farms. //Sherielyn B.Banglig

3

Participants of the Queen Bee Rearing Training Course in BSU-Buguias campus with VA
Peter Keating. Participants visited apiaries to further understand the concepts of effective
bee rearing. // photo by: MFBWance
CAR to strengthen beekeeping industry
T
he Cordillera Region is
deemed to be an ideal place
for beekeeping because
of its semi-temperate climate.
Presently, there are efforts to revive
the beekeeping industry here in the
region.
The Benguet State University, in
partnership with the Canadian Executive
Services Organization (CESO) in Toronto,
Canada, conducted series of lecture,
trainings and consultation in beekeeping
for the whole month of April in hope of
helping strengthen beekeeping in the
Cordillera. On the course of the month-
long activity, problems, threats, strengths
and opportunities were discussed.
The challenges
During the training, there were
challenges and problems shared by the
participants regarding beekeeping industry
here in the Cordilleras.
4 RANGTAY I JAN-JUN 2014 I Vol. 15 No. 1
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE OFFICE OF EXTENSION
The major predicament of the
beekeepers is the marketing side of their
products. According to Mr. Constancio
Molitas, a private beekeeper from Tublay,
there is still no definite market for bee
products. Similarly, the queen bee rearing
tools are needed to be imported.
One instance shared by beekeepers
is the problem in buying fully mated
queens. According to them, some are
selling queens that are not fully mated.
According to Paquito Untalan, Director
of Cordillera Regional Apiculture Center
(CRAC)-BSU, introducing a not fully mated
queen could disturb the colony resulting
to less honey liquid.
A very strong colony is likely to have
70 thousand bees. More bees mean
more forages leading to more nectar.
Introducing a not fully mated queen to
the population of bees in the colony
will cause decreased production. The
not fully-mated queen will soon lay
unfertilized eggs (drones or male honey
bees) and no worker bees.
This will disturb the equilibrium of the
colony making it a weak one. In time of
honey flow, the colony will have less honey
liquid. An advise for the beekeepers is that
they should start strengthening their colony
by rainy season in time for November where
the sunflowers start to bloom.
Moreover, one more issue raised is the
observation that the same people are
attending the series of seminars and trainings
for beekeeping. A mechanism to ensure
that other beekeepers will undergo such
capacity building activities is suggested to the
organizations.
“Sometimes, even among beekeepers
themselves, ag iinimot da (referring to fully
mated queens and knowledge in beekeeping)”
one beekeeper said.
The availability of prescribed treatments
for varroa mites and strip that infect the
colonies is another matter voiced out. The
beekeepers related that they are forced to
improvise home remedies in order to save
their colonies. However, some concerns
were raised on the validity and safety of the
methods used to treat the colonies. It was
revealed that other beekeepers use amitraz
used in treating mites in dogs to treat mites
in their colonies.
Still on the same concern, Untalan
related that there are Amitraz strips sold
commercially purposely to treat varroa
mites but beekeepers need to follow the
required formulation which is about 3.33 %
concentration.
On the other hand, Mr. Peter John Keating
of CESO said that the life span of bees is
shortened and the egg laying capacity of the
queen may be reduced when chemicals are
introduced in the colony.
Untalan is urging beekeepers to follow
the dosage strictly. They should forego the
notion that ‘the heavier the dosage, the more
effective it is’. He explained that this is not the
case.
He futher added that at least two months
before the honey flow, no treatment
should be introduced in the colony to avoid
endangering the health of the consumers
due to chemical ressidual (residue) in the
honey liquid it self.
The “Sweet” Effort
Dr. Silvestre L. Kudan, Director of
Research, said that the university is
conducting trainings and seminars for
the beekeepers to be able to equip
themselves in beekeeping. He also
thanked the participants for bringing
out their concerns and encouraged the
beekeepers to share their knowledge to
one another.
According to Ariel Kilbas, one of the
Board of Directors of the Beekeepers
Association Philippines, Incorporated-
Cordillera Region Chapter (BAPI), there
is a proposed beekeeping summit to be
supported by the provincial government
unit under the vice-governor’s office.
However, this summit will only
materialize if the concerned individuals
will fully cooperate for the sake of the
beekeeping industry in the Cordilleras.
He added that one of the objectives
of BAPI is to establish and implement
feasible projects and mechanisms for
the promotion of networking among
beekeepers for upgrading the growth
and development of beekeeping industry
in the country.
c. Wine makers
d. Beauty parlor owners who buy honey
for facial spa
Tips in Queen Rearing
Queen rearing plays an important
role in beekeeping; it is what makes the
colony alive. It is a must for a beekeeper
to rear his/her own queen.
Here are some tips in queen rearing
shared by VA CESO Peter John Keating.
1. Ensure the presence of drones in the
colony
2. In grafting, choose the best larvae to
be grafted (2-3 days old)
3. Work and learn with individuals who
are beekeepers
4. Follow strictly the schedule or timeline
in queen rearing. One important thing
to remember is that sometimes the
queens emerge on the 15th day not the
16th day of the queen rearing calendar.
5. Consider the weather conditions and
adaptation of the colony
How to Choose a Colony
Strong colonies are desired by
beekeepers for colony reproduction. Here
are some tips on how to choose a colony
when splitting as shared by VA CESO Peter
John Keating.
1. They thrive in extreme weather
conditions (too cold or too hot)
2. A colony that has food
3. A colony that has a queen with no visible
sign of disease
4. A colony that is not aggressive/ not
swarming
5. A colony that’s is calm-not rushing
around
7. A colony that has lot of produce honey
8. A colony that produce eggs

According to Kilbas, there are

proposed activities for strengthening
the beekeeping industry here in the
Cordilleras such as:

- Beekeepers summit under the office of

the Vice-Governor;
- Creation of Cordillera Beekeepers
Experts Organization (CBESO) (volunteers
Organization);
- Creation of reading materials in
beekeeping

The possible markets for bee products

are:

a. SLU-EISSIF(Saint Louis University)

b. National Apiculture Research Training
and Development Institute.
They use their registered trade name
to sell the honeybee product. They buy:
• Cultured Honey
• Wild Honey
• Wax
• Propolis
• Honey wine Participants of the Queen Bee Rearing Training Course in BSU-main Campus holding frames
• Beauty products against the light for them to spot easily the larvae to be grafted. Second to the right photo:
• Royal jelly Professor Paquito Untalan, Director of CRAC, helps some of the participants properly identify
• Honey bee Beauty products the larvae possible for grafting. // photo by: HBDanis
• Queen and Colonies

5
 Bees to sting up the market ,
As early as 1970’s, beekeeping started to increase in the Mountains of Cordillera but was not considered
a lucrative business. The materials and equipment needed are exported from other countries, making
the process tedious and resources-consuming.
At present, beekeeping aims for a fast mark up in
the world of economy.
Benguet State University, in collaboration with
the Canadian Executive Service Organization
(CESO), held a consultation on the reciprocating
link between agricultural crop production and
beekeeping last April 21, 2014 at Solibao Hall,
NPRCRTC, BSU. CESO Volunteer Adviser Peter John
Keating served as the resource speaker. La Trinidad
Vice Mayor Romeo Salda; Benguet Vice Governor
representative Mr. Rolly Paleng were also present
The event aims to build cooperation between
agricultural farmers and beekeepers into solving
the issues and concerns between farming and
beekeeping.
Vice Mayor Romeo Salda commended BSU
for continuously pursuing organic agriculture.
Apparently, bees and plants are primarily used in
this venture.
Mr. Keating mentioned that one cause of bees’
death is insecticide use in nearby farms. A farmer-
participant claimed that spraying their plants with
insecticide is a usual practice but now, they are
slowly shifting into organic farming.
Mr. Jason Biray from Saint Louis University (SLU)
added that bees are affected by spraying of
insecticides but they can not blame the farmers
because it is the most convenient way for high
yield.
“We hope that farmers will coordinate with us
6 RANGTAY I JAN-JUN 2014 I Vol. 15 No. 1
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE OFFICE OF EXTENSION
when they are going to spray their farms in
this manner, we will not release the bees out
to seek their food,” one of the participants
said.
On the part of the local government,
Vice Mayor Salda added that the provincial
government of Benguet issued a regulatory
ordinance on red label pesticides and the
municipal government passed a same
ordinance, which is under deliberation. This
is to regulate pesticide use in La Trinidad,
particularly in Bahong and Alapang areas to
avoid the spraying of pesticide to cutflowers.
Mr. Keating added that the golden rule on
beekeeping is “do not spray when the plant
is in flowering stage” or spray at night when
the bees are not flying. He also encouraged
the farmers to assist the beekeepers in
order to achieve good quality of crop.
Pests and diseases affecting bees
Mr. Enrique Tayaotao, President of La
Trinidad Beekeepers Association, Inc., said
that aside from pesticide use, other causes
of death of bees are the mites (varroa
mites) and virus. However, he mentioned
that they wish for a laboratory for where
dead bees could be be examined to identify
the cause of death.
Dr. Araceli Ladilad, Director of Horticulture
Training Institute (HORTI), recommended
asking help from the experts of BSU to
analyze the bees infected by insect bites
and identify the signs if they are infected by
pests.
In view of the problem, Cordillera Regional
Apiculture Center (CRAC) under BSU was
created to focus in the beekeeping business
in Cordillera which is headed by Professor
Paquito P. Untalan. The center is conducting
trainings in beekeeping course and giving
assistance to beekeepers.
Dr. Ruth C. Diego, Dean of the College
of Veterinary Medicine, added that the
government started to include the study
of bees in the Vetmed curriculum. She said
that they are developing a crash course on
bee culture and bee medicine as part of the
curriculum to study their illness and cure.
Towards future market
In addition, the consultation was the
avenue for the farmers and beekeepers to
be prepared towards the upcoming ASEAN
Free Trade Area (AFTA) 2015.
Mr. Biray suggests that another follow-
up consultation should be done for the
updates of the first consultation to see the
improvement.
The consultation ended-up with working
hand in hand in achieving co-existing
partnership between agencies, farmers and
beekeepers. // Herman B. Danis
 PHOTO DOCUMENTATION

Vice-Mayor Romeo Salda of Local Government Unit of La Trinidad

assured the sectors that there is an ordinance regulating the use
of pesticides. He also encouraged coordination between the
farmers and beekeepers.

Mr. Enrique Tayaotao, President of La Trinidad Beekeepers

Association Incorporated, expressed his wish for coordination
between farmers/cutflower growers and beekeepers when to
apply pesticides.

Dr. Luciana M. Villanueva, Benguet State University

Vice-President for Research and Extension guaranteed the
farmers and beekeepers that BSU will help through developing
researches/technologies that are environment friendly, and that
can be imparted to the farmers for more safe and nutritious food.

Mr. Jason Biray, beekeeper from Saint Louis University-Extension

Institute for Small-Scale Industries Foundation urged that aside
from tree planting, farmers and beekeepers can also have
‘sunflower planting’ to strenghthen the bonding between the two
sectors.
NOARDC conducts trainings
on organic agriculture
La Trinidad
Twenty-eight (28) organic enthusiasts
from several barangays of La Trinidad and
some municipalities of Benguet and Mt.
Province attended the training on organic
farming held at the Gladiola hall, Benguet
State University last January 27-29, 2014.

Participants listened to pool of experts

headed by Dr. Jose G. Balaoing who
pointed out the important details of the
Republic Act 10068 (Organic Act of 2010)
and the Philippine National Standards
certification which involves processes and
rules and regulations on converting farms
into 1st , 2nd and 3rd party organic farm
and products.

Aside from Dr. Balaoing, Prof. Jamesly

T. Andres, Prof. Alexander W. Fagyan, Dr.
Asuncion Nagpala, Prof. Bonie Ligat and Engr.
Erio Tinoy-an also shared their expertise
on the different organic practices and
management that the participants can use/
utilize in organic farming.
Participants were able to experience
some organic management practices and
technologies during their field visit at the
BSU organic farm. Participants were able to
look into the vermicomposting technology
used using native worms from Benguet.
In addition to this, the participants also
observed the different cropping systems
integrated in the production of organic
vegetable, strawberry and herbs.
Bokod
To boost the capability of Ambangeg
Organic Farmers Association (AOFA)
members in organic farming, training
on practical organic agriculture was
conducted by NOARDC headed by its chief
of Education, Training and Extension Prof.
Jamesly T. Andres last February 13, 2014 at
Benguet State University-Bokod Campus.
The resource speakers are experts in the
field of organic certification and practices,
soil management and technologies. They
shared their knowledge and answered
questions raised by the participants.
Participants raised their problems to
the resource speakers especially on the
different inputs that can be used in organic
agriculture. They also verified some
technologies they use in their organic
farms.
With Engr. Erio L. Tinoy-an’s discussion,
different natural farming technologies
such Fish Amino Acid (FAA) and other
concoctions that the participants can use
in managing their organic farms were
presented.
Prof. Alexander W. Fagyan pointed
out the importance of soil in organic
agriculture and presented soil
sampling and testing.
Since the association is newly
established, Prof. Andres encouraged them
to use participatory guarantee system
wherein they can set their own standards
in managing and practicing organic
agriculture but it should be based on the
Philippine National Standards (PNS). //
Noel A. Lenguaje
NOARDC envisions to be the premier Center
for Organic Agriculture in Asia and it aims
to develop and package appropriate
organic farming technologies and systems
adaptive for sustainable agro-industrial
production. Their office is located at BSU
Research Complex, Km. 5 La Trinidad,
Benguet.

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OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE OFFICE OF EXTENSION
DepEd CAR focal persons undergo
hands-on training on Organic Agriculture
As front liners in the implementation of Organic Agriculture Program in the education
sector, NOARDC conducted Regional Trainers Training on Practical Organic Agriculture
participated in by 61 DepEd representatives all over Cordillera last May 12-16, 2013 at
the Landbank of the Philippines Function Hall.
D
r. Jose G. Balaoing explained the important role of
Department of Education in the implementation
of R.A. 10068. He said that the training is relevant
to Section 23 of the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010
wherein it states that “The Department of Education
together with the Department of Agriculture shall jointly
incorporate the philosophy and principles of organic
agriculture, its importance, techniques and skills on the
practice of organic agriculture in the basic education
curriculum and alternative learning system (ALS)
curriculum preferably translated in Filipino and other
local languages”.
The said training is a follow-up activity of the
conducted awareness seminar on organic agriculture
for Department of Education Cordillera Administrative
Region (DepEd CAR) focal persons last November 2013.
Since the participants were able to identify topics that
can be integrated in the curriculum, the training will
serve as an avenue to finalize initial outputs.
Aside from Dr. Balaoing, experts in the field of
organic farming practices, natural farming technologies,
soil management and soil sampling and testing, pest
management, cultural technology, post harvest and
marketing shared their knowledge to the participants and
showed demonstrations of different organic practices.
Furthermore, demo farm visits and inspections were
also part of the training.
The practical demonstrations and farm visits helped the
participants in the development of training programs
and module that would enhance competencies in the
management and instructional delivery of philosophy
and principles of organic agriculture, its importance,
techniques and skills on the practice of organic
agriculture.
As an output, DepEd representatives presented an
action plan for the integration of organic agriculture
in the curriculum of Alternative Learning System (ALS),
elementary and secondary wherein sample topics
discussed were integrated to selected subjects.
Mr. Chester Bolcio of ALS-Benguet showed how
organic agriculture may be integrated in the modular
and skills activities of ALS students.
Also, Mrs. Eusebia Gayyaman of Kalinga division
followed K to 12 curriculum format in the integration
sample. Each division already has initial plans for the
integration especially on the Gulayan sa Paaralan
program of DepEd and selected subjects. //Noel A.
Lenguaje
9
 FEATURE

C ultural management practices of Arabica

offee boosts bean quality

The Cordillera Region is one of the few regions in the country

where Arabica, Robusta, Excelsa , and Liberica coffee varieties
can grow. Among the varieties, Arabica is the most preferred
locally and globally. The Benguet province is one of the few
provinces that produces the best Arabica.
Arabica has the best cup quality of excellent flavor and aroma among
all the coffee varieties. However, the quality of coffee produced in the
Philippines is generally substandard due to poor cultural practices
for production. The BSU- Institute of Highland Farming System and
Agroforestry (IHFSA) shares some cultural management practices of
Arabica Coffee for quality green bean production. 30 cm
I. SEED SELECTION

1. Choose seeds from trees which are 5-8 years old and are free from
pests and diseases.

2. Gather berries from middle branches with short internodes.

3. Select large, fully ripe and uniformly-sized berries. Do not use over- An ideal seedbed is one meter wide with suitable
ripe and dry beans. length of 10 meters and 30 cm height/ deep.
4. Place harvested berries in a bucket of water and stir to remove
floaters. Those berries that sink are good for planting materials.

5. Remove pulp by hand or use depulping machine or even an

improvised wooden depulping. Avoid breaking the shell or the
seed.

6. After depulping, soak the parchment coffee (depulped coffee)

in clean water for 12-24 hours to ferment and to remove mucilage
(Slippery substance).

7. Wash parchment coffee and remove discolored, deformed,

Broken, small, pea beans and those berries that float.

8. Sow coffee seeds directly in seedbeds or airy-dry seed that are

not for immediate planting in an open shed for approximately
10 days. Store seeds at a room temperature for two months,
however, the germination percentage will be lowered.
Sowing. Sow seeds with the flat surface downward at 2.5 cm x
II. NURSERY PREPARATION AND SOWING 2.5 cm distance. Cover seeds with just enough pulverized soil.

Organicfertilizer should be thoroughly incorporated during Mulching keeps soil moist and prevents weed growth. It also
digging and soil pulvurization. In furrow making, it should be 2.5 prevents rain from exposing seeds. This practice ensures early
cm apart and 2.5 cm deep. germination.

10 RANGTAY I JAN-JUN 2014 I Vol. 15 No. 1

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE OFFICE OF EXTENSION
III. CARE & MANAGEMENT OF GERMINATED SEEDS
Under favorable conditions (21-27 0C temperature and 75-85% RH),
seeds will germinate one month after sowing. However, if the weather is
cold, germination will take about three months.
6. After planting the seedling, press the soil at the base of the
seedling to harden the soil.
7. In watering, use of sprinkler is preferred so as not to wash out
the soil on top of the seedling pot.

In fertilization, apply organic fertilizers such as fermented Plant Juice
(FPJ) at recommended rates. One is the Indigenous Microorganisms
(IMO) that can be applied at 2 tablespoons per one liter of water
Also, organic botanical pesticides such as sunflower or marigold
extract can be sprayed at 2 tablespoons per one liter of water.
8. Partial Shading-construct partial shade above potted seedlings
or place potted seedlings under shade trees.
V. CARE OF POTTED SEEDLINGS
1. Water the potted seedling as often as necessary. As much as
possible, use sprinkler.

IV. PRICKING AND POTTING OF SEEDLINGS Fertilization – application of organic fertilizers

e.g. - Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ) at
PRICKING recommended rates
- Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO)
1. Starts when “Horseman” or cotyledon leaves appear. at 2tbsp/liter water
- 100-150 g urea per 10 liters water or
2. Before pricking, water seedbed to loosen the soil. 200 grams T 14 per liter water or 200
grams T 14 per 10 liters water.
3. Take extra care in pulling or balling the seedlings to minimize root Could be once or twice a month
damage.
2. Spray organic botanical pesticides such as sunflower or
4. Discard seedlings with broken stems, deformed and other marigold extract at 2 tbsp/liter of water.
abnormalities.
3. Weeding – removal of weeds should be done to ensure plant
POTTING survival. Weeding eliminates plant nutrient competition and
alternate host of pests and diseases.
1. Use appropriate plastic bag size (8 cm x 25 cm or 3” x 10” is
recommended). 4. Hand or mechanical weeding is recommended.

2. Fill plastic bags with well-sieved sandy loam soil mixed with organic 5. Seedlings are ready to be field-planted when one pair of true
fertilizer. branches appear (9 months-1 year after sowing).

3. Ball seedlings from germination bed. VI. FIELD PLANTING OF COFFEE SEEDLINGS

4. Dip the root systems of the seedlings into a mud solution before Follow usual procedures of clearing the land area and lay-
potting. outing. For sloping areas, lay-out the contour using A’ Frame and
spot terracing is recommended to minimize labor cost.
5. By using a dibble, make a hole at the center of the pot filled with soil to
plant the coffee seedling. The depth of planting should be leveled with PLANTING DISTANCE
the root collar.
Arabica coffee:
- 3m x 3m or 4m x 4m
Robusta Coffee:
- 3m x 3m or 4m x 4m
Liberica/Excelsa:
- 4m x 5m or 5m x 5.5m

VII. SIZE OF HOLE FOR PLANTING

50cm wide x 50cm deep

When digging the holes, separate top soil from sub-soil because
during planting of the coffee seedling; top soil will be used to fill
the hole while the sub-soil will be used to cover the roots up to
the root collar of the seedling.

Before planting, put compost or well decomposed animal

manure at 2 – 5 kg per hole as basal fertilizer.

11
 RESEARCH
Boosting potted Arabica Coffee
seedlings survival through
formulated organic fertilizers
D
ependence on organic fertilizers leads
to the decrease of microorganisms in
soil. This also makes the soil acidic and
unstable resulting to erosion and in general,
degradation of soil. These may lead to decline
in yield.

Researchers of Benguet State University

headed by Prof. Valentino L. Macanes determined
the efficacy of formulated solid and liquid organic
fertilizers on the growth performance of Arabica
coffee seedlings for organic production and the
costs and return analysis.

The formulated organic solid fertilizer (FOSF)

was prepared using available materials at the
farm such as coffee hull, Alnus leaves and pig
manure as substrates. The FOSF had a nutrient
analysis of N (nitrogen): 1.79%, P (phosphorus):
1.61% and K (potassium): 3.10%.

Meanwhile, the formulated organic liquid

fertilizer (FOLF) was prepared as compost
tea from a formulated organic solid fertilizer
using sunflower, calliandra, and coffee pulp as
substrates. It has a nutrient content of N: 0.22%,
P: 0.04% and K: 0.35%. This was applied on the
coffee seedlings as foliar spray at 100 ml per 16 L
of water at 15 days interval.
The study found out that organic nutrient
sources were able to supply nutrients needed for
healthy Arabica coffee seedling growth.
Results show that the use of the formulated
organic fertilizer at a rate of 200 g/pot is sufficient
to provide the needed nutrients of coffee seedling
by having the lowest root shoot ratio. A low
root-shoot ratio means roots are abundant with
respect to the foliage area. A reduction in the
root shoot ratio is always in response to favorable
growing conditions.
An increase in soil fertility is commonly
connected to the reduction in root-shoot ratio.
Also, seedlings have a higher potential in avoiding
water stress.
In terms of signs of nutrient deficiency, the
untreated plants exhibited nitrogen deficiency,
having pale green to yellow green leaves mostly
on four months after potting. Potassium deficient
seedlings exhibiting initial yellowing on the leaf
LR- (upper photo) After four months of potting, the seedlings exhibited deficiency in
nitrogen, potassium and iron. Lower photo shows the healthy plants.
Proper balance of essential nutrients in the coffee production
is needed for healthy economic level. If one nutrient is
lacking, it greatly affects coffee yield and quality. This point
has not been given attention in coffee agriculture which may
be one reason potential is not achieved.
edges followed by development of dead This study was conducted by Emilia F.
spots. These were monitored from Dayap, Mario M. Marquez, Von Y. Amado,
plants applied with 100 g FOF, 200 g FOF Filverio S. Cabading and Henry S. Bernard
and Control. of the Institute of Highland Farming
System and Agroforestry (IHFSA). //
Iron deficiency, which is characterized Marie Balangay Wance
by leaf green veins against light green
to yellow green background, were IHFSA envisions being a Center of
observed from seedlings applied with Execellence in Agroforestry and other
400 g FOF/pot and 300 g BSU compost/ farming systems for the highland
pot. Yet, all the Arabica coffee seedlings communities of empowered farmers
showed noticeable improvement after applying sustainable and appropriate
six months and maintained vigor up to farming systems technologies and living
12 months. in a just, peaceful and ecologically
sound environment. IHFSA spearheads
Meanwhile, production of organically the development, dissemination and
grown seedlings using the formulated utilization of Agroforestry, Sericulture
organic fertilizers at 200 g per pot is and other Farming Systems Technologies
economically profitable with a Return of for Highland Farmers. Their liaison office
Investment (ROI) of 49.54 %. is located at BSU Research complex.

12 RANGTAY I JAN-JUN 2014 I Vol. 15 No. 1

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE OFFICE OF EXTENSION
Wet and dry fermentation
of Arabica Coffee Beans
compared
Postharvest practices in Arabica coffee especially for
organic products are important factors in the cup quality
of coffee beverage. The ripe Arabica coffee berries after
harvest go through series of processing before being
brewed as beverage. Each series may either add or
reduce the flavor and cup quality of the coffee.
The first is fermentation.

Two of the fermentation methods are wet process

of natural fermentation in water and the dry natural
fermentation. A study done by Valentino Macanes,

COFFEE FACTS
Katherine Basalong, Jenny Bawayan and Von Amado titled
“Fermentation of Organically Grown Arabica Parchment
Coffee” compared these two postharvest processes on
organically grown Arabica coffee in terms of parchment
coffee and green bean quality. For the dry fermentation
1. About 300, 000 Filipinos earn their living from the coffee industry.
process, the researchers used jute sack and black
polyethylene bags.
2. The Philippines imports 30,000-35,000 tons of coffee primarily from
In terms of the quality of Arabica parchment coffee, results Vietnam at a cost of at least PhP 1 Billion a year.
showed that the three fermentation methods provide the
coffee a good quality. 3. In 1880, the Philippines was the world’s fourth biggest exporter of
coffee. This boom lasted until 1889, when coffee rust hit the country.
Defects. All the treatments gave coffee low green bean
defect having less than 70 gram defects per sample. 4. Cavite is the best coffee-producing area in the Philippines with
average yield at 840 kg green coffee beans per hectare.
Color. Parchment color did not significantly differ among
the treatments as all samples showed yellowish hull color 5. In the Cordillera Administrative Region Average yield of coffee is 300
which is marketable. kg green coffee beans per hectare.

Odor. Parchment coffee from all the treatments exhibited

6. Best Philippine coffee beans are produced in Benguet Province,
slight noticeable acceptable odor.
Matutum of South Cotabato, Kitanglad of Bukidnon, Mount Apo in
Davao, and Kanlaon in Negros Isle (Philippine Coffee Board, Inc.,
The different fermentation methods also gave high quality
January 13, 2014).
coffee green beans.

Defects. Although statistically not significant, wet natural
method had higher amount of defects as compared to the
other two fermentation process.
Color. Green bean color did not significantly differ
between the treatments although numerically, the wet
natural method produced bluish green beans.
Odor. No noticeable odor emanated from the green beans
processed under the three fermentation method.
7. The quality of coffee produced in the Philippines is generally
substandard due to poor cultural practices, no irrigation, no
fertilization and no pruning. Hence, a need for intensified technology
development and promotion through research, development and
extension (RDE).
8. Twenty five thousand metric tons per year (ranks 110th in the world
in terms of coffee production) but the local demand has increased
from 30,000 to about 100,000 metric tons a year and is increasing at
3% (18,000 tons) per annum (Phil. Coffee Board Inc., 2013).

There are no considerable differences in parchment,
green bean and cup quality in the fermentation of Arabica
coffee using the wet process or by using jute sack and black
polyethylene bags. The use of jute sack or black polyethylene
bags could be an alternative to wet process. Fermentation
using jute sack or black polyethylene bags could be used in
Benguet, especially in areas with limited water supply.
9. We are now in the 3rd Wave of the coffee generation according ot the
Phil. Coffee Board, Inc., Coffee Origins.
-proliferation of coffee shops
-proliferation of small coffee roasting and grinding
machines in the homes
10. World consumption of coffee is 400 billion cups annually or 100
million bags (60 kg per bag) valued at 10 billion US dollars. World
demand will increase each year by 1.71%.
13
 Negotiating Climate Change Scenarios in Benguet
Benguet lies in the sounthernmost part of the region and is the producer of semi temperate
vegetables in the country. Any change in climate in the province affects the farming practices,
social organization and community activities including health and gender concerns.
It is with this background that a study
titled “Negotiating Climate Change:
Vulnerabilities and Resilience of Four
Benguet Communities” was conducted to
assess the implications of climate change
on the socio-economic side. Specifically, it
looked into the perceived effects of climate
change and adaptation mechanism among
selected indigenous people in Tuba,
Sablan, Buguias and Atok.
The Local indicators of Climate Change
The most evident sign is the increase
in temperature. In the four study sites,
majority of the respondents noted the
significant increase in temperature. The
common comments are “grabe nan
pudot idwani…idi ket pirmi nan teg-in”
(nowadays, the heat is unbearable…unlike
the past); “idwani, man sakit nan sugit”
(nowadays, the sun rays are painful to the
skin). Another indicator noted is erratic
weather conditions. One respondent
said that at the breaking of dawn, the
temperature is cold and at midday, the
heat of the sun is described as “mansakit
pudot ay kaman apoy” (burning) another
is “Pirmi pudot…nabetak ti daga” (it has
become very hot…even the soil cracks).
Also, an elderly informant narrates that
Paoay used to be covered by clouds until
10 in the morning. In the past, ‘amog’ (ice
crystal) would form on one’s eyebrows
while walking in the area but now, instead
of ‘amog’, one would experience sweating
because of warm temperature.
The respondents also observed the
changes in intensity and patterns of
typhoons, rains and winds. Respondents
said when it rains, it pours like there is a
typhoon. This reflects increase in rainfall.
Accordingly, rainfall pattern and intensity
was more balanced in the past.
Perceived effects of climate change
In Loo and Paoay, the farmer respondents
noted the increase of pests and/or
introduction of news pests and plant
diseases. However, in Sablan and Taloy,
this has lower percentage. Other effects
of climate change observed at different
13 RANGTAY I JAN-JUN 2014 I Vol. 15 No. 1
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE OFFICE OF EXTENSION
percentages are increase/production of new
animal diseases, lesser crop yield, and lesser
water supply, increase of human disease and
increase in forest fire.
Effects of climate change on the traditional
agricultural calendar
The indigenous people of (IPs) of Benguet
have their own system of forecasting weather
mainly based on natural phenomenon
on their environment. With the observed
changes in the climate, traditional agriculture
may not be affected all the time. Majority of
the respondents are no longer observing or
applying the traditional agriculture calendar
as basis of their agriculture activities.
Effects on Agriculture
The perceived problems encountered due to
climate change are increase in plant pest and
diseases, increasingly lack of water irrigation
or no irrigation at all, crops destroyed by
typhoons, non-viable crop or death of crops,
erratic weather, high price of inputs and low
cost of harvested crop (‘bagsak’).
Many respondents attribute the increased
pest to the development of pest immunity
to pesticides but some to increase in
temperature.
Negotiations
To cope with the effects of climate change,
diverse adaptations are being done. To
lessen pest problems, most of the farmer
respondents intensify the application of
pesticides such as insecticides and fungicides
mainly in Loo and Paoay. However, in Paoay,
they apply grease to trap pests to lessen the
amount of pesticide use. In Bayabas and Taloy
Sur, they manually remove pest in minimal
scale.
According to the study, diversifying income
sources is an important mechanism to
cope with the effects of climate change.
Respondents in Bayabas and Taloy Sur said
that non-farm livelihood helps them get
through the crisis brought by climate change.
Respondents who rely solely in farming have
experienced a higher degree of vulnerabilities
to changes in climate. Other respondents
planted new crops or variety to combat
climate change. These include new variety
of rice, carrots, radish and cabbage. Other
respondents shifted to cut-flower industry.
According to them, new crops or variety has
higher resistance to pests and diseases thus
resulting to higher yield.
A respondent in Paoay said that they shifted
to planting carnation as a means of adapting
to climate change. Carnation needs full
sunlight and does not require too much
water. In Bayabas, a key-informant said that
they shifted to lowland crops to cope with
the warming weather.
These show that climate change is real in
Benguet. The study then recommends the
strengthening of integrating Indigenous
Knowledge and System Practices (IKSP) in
farming practices for popularizing organic
agriculture. Providing support services such
as research and development on testing new
varieties of common grown crops is another
recommendations. Research efforts could
also include sharing of “early maturing”
crop seeds and other possible solutions to
problems along productivity and economic
gains.
This research is a part of bigger project
titled “Enhanced Climate Change Adaptation
Capacity of Communities in Contiguous
Fragile Ecosystems in the Cordillera”.
It is under the program ‘Strengthening
the Philippine Institutional Capacity for
Adaptation to Climate Change’.
The study was conducted by Ruth Batani,
Jones Napaldet, Matyline Camfili, Mursha
Gapasin, Karryl Mae Ngina and Feliciano
Calora under the Institute of Social Research
and Development. // Marie Balangay Wance
ISRD is an Institute that envisions empowered
and healthy communities through self-
reliance, innovation and entrepreneurship,
conciously maintaining quality environment.
It aims to spearhead the conduct of relevant
social research and development activities in
the highlands and other communities. Their
office is located at BSU Research and Extension
Complex, Km5. La Trinidad, Benguet.
BSU BSND extends helpful
Programs in Kapangan,
Benguet
A Memorandum of Agreement
between the Municipality of
Kapangan and Benguet State
University paved way for the yearly
entry of the Bachelor of Science in
Nutrition and Dietetics Supervised
Field Practicummers (BSND SFP’s)
students’ in Kapangan to conduct
basic duties and nutritional activities
such as Home Visit and Profiling,
Weight and Growth monitoring,
Supplementary Feeding, Salt Testing,
Nutrition Class and Mother’s Class.
For the nutritional knowledge,
different topics were introduced per
barangay according to the needs to
be met.
A study titled “Evaluation of Nutrition
Activities Conducted by the Bachelor
of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
in Kapangan, Benguet” was done to
evaluate how effective the program they
had implemented.
The study then focused on documenting
the assessment of beneficiaries and
respondents on the case study programs
conducted by the BSND SFP.
There were 27 case study beneficiaries
on the past supervised field practicum
of the BSND students from 2012-2023.
In the evaluation, 20 respondents were
included.
Results showed that 90% of the
respondents availed Home Visit and
Profiling.
In addition, eighty-five percent of the
respondents availed Weight Monitoring,
Growth Monitoring and Nutrition Classes.
The respondents claimed that they are
satisfied with the nutrition activities they
have availed rating the nutritional activities
with a mean of 4.22 or very satisfactory.
Supplementary feeding got the highest
satisfaction rating of 4.50 followed by
The program designers should review the
home visit with 4.44, mother’s class with
nutrition activities that were done before
4.29 and salt testing at 4.23. All the ratings
and make revisions on aspects where target
have an equivalent qualitative score of very
beneficiaries are more interested. Since the
satisfactory.
program was not that effective in the nutrition
activities such as enhancing supplementary
As for the rating per barangay,
feeding using indigenous food in the locality
respondents from Datakan and Pudong
should extend and continuously monitored.
said that they are very satisfied with the
nutrition activities while Barangay Labueg
Moreover, few respondents made specific
and Cayapes said they are satisfied
suggestions that should be given consideration
in future similar programs such that topics
However, it is noted that the direct
should be maintained in the future, follow
effect of the program actually did not
up monitoring should be done on nutritional
totally address the enhancement of
status of beneficiaries and low cost recipes
nutritional status. In one of the interviews
should be emphasized by the trainers of SFP’s.
conducted with the Barangay Nutrition
Scholars, who at the same time a parent
Further, the study recommends that
a case study beneficiary, admitted that
implementation period of the next SFP’s
the implementation of knowledge or
should be extended in order to have a
information obtained from the programs
substantial impact to the beneficiaries.
is poor in regard to compliance within the
Documentation and assessment of future
household.
similar programmes which may be more
With these findings, the study therefore
focused on nutrition enhancement should be
recommends that the program should
conducted and replicated.//
be continued as long as the problem of
malnutrition in the locality is a serious
This study was conducted by Karen P. Ayawan,
problem. However, more planning should
Jake D. Batalang, Naomi W. Bayaua, Valerie
be done in terms of determination of
Ann A. Gatung-O, and Chelsea Vienne R. Peña
activities to be included and emphasized.
with Prof.Sherilyn B. Baluro as their adviser.
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