Educational Tour

Soil and Water Knowledge Through Educational Tour at NSWRRDC HILLPEZ

Engr. Ma. Jayzelyn R. Umali

The National Soil and Water Resources Research and Development Center for Hillyland Pedo-ecological Zone facilitated a comprehensive educational tour for the On-the-job training (OJT) students and Interns of the Summer Youth Internship Program (SYIP) on 4 and 5 July 2024. 

The activity was participated by the twenty active women of Barangay Sampaloc, and Barangay Cuyambay of the municipality of Tanay, province of Rizal. With its topic “Vermicomposting Technology sa Pamamaraan ng NSWRRDC HILLPEZ”, the participants with minimal to zero knowledge of the said technology have gained useful tips and information on how to start vermicomposting in their homes.

OJT students, two from the Ateneo de Naga University under the Composting Project Implementation Team (CPIT) accompanied by CPIT staff Project Development Officer I Blessilda Castro, Administrative Assistant IV Jessica Yabao, and Project Assistant IV Renor Galicha, and eight from Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) under NSWRRDC HILLPEZ, and CBSUA accompanied by Faculty/OJT Coordinator Lorena F. Hernandez; and twenty-five Interns of 2024 Summer Youth Internship Program accompanied by Administrative Officer II Lorraine P. Balintec and Administrative Officer I Mr. Elvis U. Antonio, Jr. were the participants of the day one and day two educational tour, respectively.

The educational tour was headed by Senior Science Research Specialist Roosebelt P. Creencia, Agriculturist II Aubrey Anne B. Ayaton-Carneo, and Agriculturist I Johnmark M. Carneo, and assisted by Science Research Specialist I Engr. Ma. Jayzelyn R. Umali, Project Development Officer I Ruzzelle Jane H. Madiaga, and Project Assistant II Allan Jay F. Fuentes. 

The tour began at the Office Premises, where Mr. Creencia showcased the cisterns, rainshelters, and various crops like mustards, cucumber, and dragon fruit. The group then visited the organic area, where Ms. Ayaton-Carneo explained previous and ongoing research in the area. She also showed and discussed the functions of the Center's Automated Weather Station (AWS). Moving to the Agro-forestry area, participants were captivated by the scenic landscape and had the opportunity to harvest and taste mulberries. Further stops included the old admin building of the center featuring the first vermicomposting facility demonstrated by Mr. Carneo. Continuing the tour, Mr. Creencia guided the group to the Mokusaku Facility, explaining the process of wood vinegar extraction and showcasing the Solar Powered Irrigation System (SPIS) utilized for irrigation needs. A hike to the Salakot area provided a closer look at contour farming techniques aimed at soil conservation. Mr. Creencia elaborated on the importance of these methods in maintaining soil health and preventing erosion. The group also visited the R4D Vermicomposting Facility, where Mr. Carneo detailed the center's advanced vermicomposting techniques. The tour draws to a close with a visit to the Small Water Impounding Project (SWIP), which is currently undergoing rehabilitation to enhance water resource management.