Oral Category 1 Abstracts

Nanofertilizers offer a promising alternative for sustainable agriculture by reducing dependence on conventional fertilizers. To fully realize their benefits, it is essential to understand how nanofertilizers influence soil microbial communities. This study evaluated the effects of FertiGroe® N and FertiGroe® K nanofertilizers on microbial communities associated with the sugarcane rhizosphere using next- generation sequencing of metagenomic DNA.

Results showed that the application of 100% nano N and nano K resulted to the dominance of several bacterial phyla, including Pseudomonadota, Actinomycetota, Acidobacteriota, Bacillota, and Chloroflexota. The increased relative abundance of Pseudomonadota and Acidobacteriota under FertiGroe® N and K treatments, suggests that these nanofertilizers may stimulate bacterial community activity through slow-release nutrient delivery. At the class level, the dominant bacterial groups were Alphaproteobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, Bacillota, Terriglobia, Thermoleophilia, Actinomycetes, and Verrucomicrobiae. Functional profiling of 16S rRNA gene sequences using PICRUSt2 revealed that most abundant predicted metabolic pathways were associated with oxidoreductase activities in RXN-16650 cluster, which are linked to the degradation of organic compounds and redox metabolism.

Fungal communities were predominantly composed of the phyla Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Kickxellomycota, Chytridiomycota, Mortierellomycota, Calcarisporiellomycota, and Mucoromycota. At the class level, the dominant fungal taxa included Sordariomycetes, Agaricomycetes, Dothideomycetes, Ramicandelaberomycetes, Eurotiomycetes, and Mortierellomycetes. Most fungal taxa were identified as saprotrophs, indicating their crucial role in organic matter decomposition.

Overall, the application of FertiGroe® N and FertiGroe® K had no adverse effects on the indigenous microbial communities and even supported the proliferation of certain beneficial microorganisms. These findings highlight the potential of nanofertilizers as a sustainable and ecologically sound alternative to conventional fertilization practices.

One of the economically important euryhaline teleost fish is Caranx ignobilis, commonly known as the giant trevally and locally referred to as maliputo in the Philippines. Given its significance as a food fish, it has become a targeted fishery species over the years, emphasizing the need for monitoring to ensure sustainability. Genomic resources play a crucial role in population status and genetic variation studies, serving as invaluable tools for monitoring. The study presents the de novo genome assembly of C. ignobilis caught from the Philippine freshwater environment, with a genome size of 611.86 Mb and N50 length of 300,000 bp using a combination of Oxford Nanopore and DNBSEQ-T7TM sequencing technologies. The whole genome sequence exhibits high completeness percentage of 98.20% and 97.17% for BUSCO and CEGMA assessments, respectively. Gene prediction using EVidenceModeler identifies 20,877 protein-coding genes. Functional annotation of the protein-coding genes to GO, KEGG, and KOG reveals that most of are linked to signal transduction pathways, ATP and protein binding, as well as the endocrine system. The fully functional annotated whole genome sequence generated in this study serves as a reference sequence for this species. This sequence can further be used for various genetic research on this species, such as molecular marker development that can be utilized for population monitoring.

Severe infection by the Lernaea ectoparasite has been reported to cause weight reduction, poor reproductive performance, and increased mortality in Naujan white goby Glossogobius aureus. This study isolated 30 Lernaea individuals from tank-cultured G. aureus for morphological, molecular, and life cycle analyses and assessed histopathological effects. To evaluate natural infection, 1,253 fish were sampled from Naujan Lake (May 2024 to April 2025) to determine prevalence, mean intensity, mean abundance, condition factor, and length–weight relationship.

Morphological analysis showed an anchor-like holdfast structure consistent with Lernaea cyprinacea, further confirmed using a primer targeting the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. The parasite was predominantly attached to the base of the dorsal and pectoral fins, causing dermal necrosis and loss of muscle striation. The life cycle of L. cyprinacea on G. aureus was completed in 16 to 20 days at 25.6 – 28.2°C, a significantly shorter duration than other fish species. 

Prevalence of L. cyprinacea on G. aureus peaked in May at 50.91% with a mean intensity and abundance of 1.93 and 1, respectively, varying significantly across months, notably during warmer periods. Both infected and uninfected G. aureus exhibited negative allometric growth (b < 3), with no significant variation in condition factors. A significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) between length and parasite intensity indicates increased susceptibility in larger G. aureus. This study provides the first detailed report on L. cyprinacea parasitism of G. aureus, which is crucial for optimizing the timing of prophylactic and therapeutic interventions in captivity.

Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) production is threatened by both abiotic and biotic stress. One potential solution to this issue is the application of biostimulants and plant growth regulators (PGRs). This study aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness of foliar sprays of biostimulants (oligocarrageenan and oligochitosan) and PGRs (cytokinin and paclobutrazol) in improving cacao production under water stress, light stress, and black pod rot (BPR) disease infection. The application of biostimulants and PGRs increased the leaf chlorophyll index of cacao under both water and light stress. Under water stress, the oligochitosan treatment enhanced flowering intensity. Paclobutrazol reduced the incidence of cherelle wilt, while cytokinin improved pod retention. Additionally, treatments with biostimulants and PGRs resulted in increased seed fresh weight, production of full beans, dry bean weight, and overall yield per tree. In the coconut-cacao intercropping system, characterized by low irradiance, foliar sprays of biostimulants and PGRs also improved pod retention. Notably, oligocarrageenan and cytokinin treatments resulted in heavier pod and seed weights. Overall, foliar sprays of biostimulants and PGRs under low light conditions produced a better pod index for cacao. Under BPR stress, oligocarrageenan, oligochitosan, and paclobutrazol improved several yield-related parameters, though they did not affect disease incidence in the field. However, in vitro experiments showed that biostimulants and paclobutrazol were effective protectants against and eradicants of BPR disease in cacao. The results indicate that foliar sprays of biostimulants and PGRs can improve cacao production under abiotic and biotic stress.

This study was conducted to develop breed standards for growth and carcass quality of Antique Native Pigs from five agro-ecological zones in the Province of Antique. A total of 20 pigs were raised during the dry season for 4.5 months under standard management conditions. The pigs exhibited steady growth, reaching a final live weight of 26.03±1.77 kg at 135 days, with rapid gains observed between 60 and 90 days. Males showed higher feed efficiency and slightly heavier weights at younger ages, while females exhibited better average daily gains and larger final morphometric traits. At the average lechon weight of 24.73±1.67 kg, dressing percentage was 71.53±0.02%. Carcass length was 50.00±1.60 cm, and loin eye area was 7.20±1.23 cm² with females having higher slaughter weights, longer carcass lengths, and larger loin eye areas, while males were generally leaner. Lean, skin/fat, and bone proportions were 44±0.01%, 43±0.01%, and 13±0.01%, respectively. Ham was the heaviest primal cut (3.07±0.29 kg) and the drip loss averaged 3.20±0.68%. Post-mortem temperature and pH after 48 minutes were 6.02±0.13 °C and 6.24, respectively. Backfat thickness averaged 24.07±1.47 mm, and crude fat content was 17.91±4.13%. Meat color values for L*, a*, and b* were 49.27±1.80, 9.05±0.83, and 7.18±0.63, respectively. This study provided the first evidence of the adaptability of native pigs to extreme distress, established breed standards, and highlighted their genetic potential for future research, development, and conservation. Efforts should focus on breeding, management, and marketing to position Antique as the native pig lechon capital of Western Visayas and the Philippines.

The study evaluated the slaughter weight, muscle fiber morphology, connective tissue content, and processing properties of breast meat from Darag Philippine Native Chickens slaughtered at 16, 20, and 24 weeks of age. A total of 30 birds were used in the experiment. The increasing age of the birds was associated with a significant increase in liveweight, muscle fiber cross-sectional area, diameter, and thickness, alongside with a marked reduction in total fiber density per mm². Older birds exhibited darker and redder muscles. Shear force values increased with age, indicating reduced tenderness, and was more strongly correlated with collagen content than muscle fiber size. The observation implies that connective tissue maturity played a greater role in Darag chicken meat tenderness. Moisture content in both raw and roasted breast meat declined significantly with age, while drip loss, cooking loss, and cooking yield did not differ. The results of Principal Component Analysis supported the correlations among the parameters across different slaughter age of 16, 20, and 24 weeks. Attributes characteristic of tender and juicy meat were observed in meat from 16-week-old Darag. More muscle yield and a deeper shade of red color of meat indicated positive traits for processing, implying that meat from birds age 20 weeks and above can be utilized for manufacture of value-added products.

Field and laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate the decomposition rate of rice straw using Trichoderma compost activator (TCA) and assess the effect of Trichoderma technologies (TCA and TMI) on the growth, yield, and nutrient uptake of irrigated and rainfed lowland NSIC Rc 216 rice variety. Two field trials were conducted in Quezon Province, representing irrigated lowland (Tumbaga 1, Sariaya) and rainfed lowland (Pili, Sariaya) conditions during the 2023-2024 dry and wet seasons. Laboratory incubation studies confirmed that Trichoderma significantly enhanced rice straw decomposition, as supported by higher CO₂ evolution rates until day 7. Field experiments demonstrated that Trichoderma technologies combined with 75% recommended fertilizer rate (T5) achieved optimal performance in both locations, producing 4.42-4.50 t/ha yields in irrigated conditions and 3.13 t/ha in rainfed conditions while reducing synthetic fertilizer dependency by 25%. Trichoderma technologies combined with 50% recommended fertilizer rate (T4) also showed promising results. This treatment represents an excellent compromise for farmers seeking to minimize input costs while maintaining good productivity. The study concluded that combining Trichoderma technologies with reduced fertilizer rates (50-75% RR) maintains competitive yields while improving soil health, reducing input costs, and promoting sustainable rice production systems suitable for both irrigated and rainfed lowland conditions.

Field and laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate the decomposition rate of rice straw using Trichoderma compost activator (TCA) and assess the effect of Trichoderma technologies (TCA and TMI) on the growth, yield, and nutrient uptake of irrigated and rainfed lowland NSIC Rc 216 rice variety. Two field trials were conducted in Quezon Province, representing irrigated lowland (Tumbaga 1, Sariaya) and rainfed lowland (Pili, Sariaya) conditions during the 2023-2024 dry and wet seasons. Laboratory incubation studies confirmed that Trichoderma significantly enhanced rice straw decomposition, as supported by higher CO₂ evolution rates until day 7. Field experiments demonstrated that Trichoderma technologies combined with 75% recommended fertilizer rate (T5) achieved optimal performance in both locations, producing 4.42-4.50 t/ha yields in irrigated conditions and 3.13 t/ha in rainfed conditions while reducing synthetic fertilizer dependency by 25%. Trichoderma technologies combined with 50% recommended fertilizer rate (T4) also showed promising results. This treatment represents an excellent compromise for farmers seeking to minimize input costs while maintaining good productivity. The study concluded that combining Trichoderma technologies with reduced fertilizer rates (50-75% RR) maintains competitive yields while improving soil health, reducing input costs, and promoting sustainable rice production systems suitable for both irrigated and rainfed lowland conditions.

Fluctuating rainfall patterns often lead to water scarcity, which induces crop stress at various stages of development. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of drought stress imposed at different growth stages of ‘Baligonhon’ yam (Dioscorea alata), locally known as ube. The ‘Baligonhon’ phenotypes served as factor A, while the timing of drought imposition served as factor B. Treatments were arranged in a 3x4 factorial experiment within a randomized complete block design (RCBD). The data collected were analyzed using ANOVA. Results revealed notable interaction of phenotypes and timing of drought stress imposition on stomatal density. Yam subjected to drought at 2 and 6 MAP have lesser recovery from drought stress 2 weeks after water supply was resumed. Yield was reduced in yam plants subjected to drought at 4 and 6 MAP indicating irreversible damage due to drought stress at later stages of crop growth. Conversely, drought stress imposed at an earlier growth stage (2 MAP) did not lead to yield reductions compared to the well-watered plants, indicating phenotypic plasticity. The white and rainbow phenotypes produced higher yields compared to the purple phenotype, implying phenotypic variability in yield. Flesh color of tubers was not influenced by the imposition of drought stress, although it varied among phenotypes. All phenotypes yielded purple, rainbow and white flesh colors at varying percentages, such that a purple phenotype may produce rainbow and white flesh tubers which is about 50% of the total tuber yield.

Two experiments were conducted to measure the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) and apparent metabolizable energy (AME) of various feed ingredients used in laying Philippine Mallard ducks (Itik Pinas). The test ingredients included yellow corn, wheat, and three sorghum varieties (US Red, Indian White, and IPB COSOR5), cassava meal, copra expeller, rice bran D1, soybean meal, and wheat pollard. A total of 72 (Exp. 1) and 45 Itik Pinas Khaki ducks (Exp. 2), all of similar age, were individually assigned to six and five experimental treatments, respectively, using a randomized complete block design with 12 replicates for cereals (Exp. 1) and nine replicates for co-products (Exp. 2) per treatment. Each duck was housed in a metabolic cage that allowed egg collection and total excreta collection.

The experimental period lasted 10 days, consisting of 5 days for adaptation and 5 days for excreta collection. Results indicated that cereal grains have similar (P=0.87) ATTD of GE but higher (P<0.01) AME than co-products, both on a DM and as-fed basis. No significant differences were observed in ATTD of GE and AME among the cereal grains. Cassava meal exhibited greater (P=0.003) ATTD of GE than copra expeller, rice bran D1, and wheat pollard, but was comparable to cereals and soybean meal. On both DM and as-fed basis, IPB COSOR5 and corn showed higher (P<0.001) AME than wheat pollard.

In conclusion, cereal grains, particularly IPB COSOR5 and yellow corn, are more efficient energy sources than co-products for laying Itik Pinas ducks.

The research investigated the morphological traits and spermatozoa cryopreservation of Sinirangan native pigs (SNP). Understanding these aspects is important for enhancing breeding practices and conserving this valuable breed. Morphometric measurements were taken from SNP boars, assessing traits such as tail length, head length, body length, heart girth, body weight, and the number of teats across various sampling sites. Sperm quality was analyzed in fresh-extended semen at different temperatures (15°C and 4°C) and post-cryopreservation assessments were conducted using varying glycerol concentrations (2% and 4%). 

Study revealed that SNP boars were characterized by black hair, erect ears, and straight tails. Morphometric measurements showed no significant differences in tail length (p=0.064), head length (p=0.739), body length (p=0.739), heart girth (p=0.667), body weight (p=0.86), and number of teats (p=0.936) across sampling sites, indicating genetic homogeneity. Body weight estimates were accurate, with no significant difference (p=0.360) between the estimated and actual weight, suggesting the effectiveness of the estimation formula. High total motility of fresh-extended semen was observed at 15°C, while progressive motility and kinematic characteristics values were higher at 4°C. Post-cryopreservation revealed no significant result (p≥0.05) between glycerol concentrations (2%, 4%), implying significant challenge in maintaining sperm viability, noting the need for improved semen processing and cryopreservation protocols.

Interventions for sustainability, including knowledge dissemination, technology adoption, and market diversification is recommended. Further research on the refinement of cryopreservation protocols should be conducted to improve breeding practices, maintain genetic traits, and enhance artificial insemination protocols, thereby improving reproductive success and conservation for this valuable breed.

Lactic acid fermentation offers promising approach to enhance the bioactive phytochemicals and functional potential of underutilized indigenous fruit such as the Philippine wild raspberry (Rubus rosifolius Sm.) or locally known as Sampinit. This study investigated the effect of puree concentration (55%, 70%, 85% w/w), fermentation time (48h, 72h, 96h), and inoculum-substrate ratio (1%, 2%, 3% v/w) on the bioactive compounds and physico-chemical properties of Sampinit puree and to optimize the process by response surface methodology using Box-Behnken Design. Fermentation by Lactoplantibacillus plantarum significantly affects the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), color and titratable acidity (% lactic acid). Fermenting high puree concentration (up to 85% w/w) for extended period (up to 96 hours) increased TPC. High TFC level was observed at increasing puree concentration regardless of fermentation time and inoculum rate. The color lightness of puree was affected by the cross product of fermentation time and puree concentration, and the quadratic term of inoculum rate. All factors significantly influenced the lactic acid content. The resulting optimization process based on maximum TPC suggested a quadratic model design. The model verified the optimized conditions established at 85% w/w puree concentration, 48 hours fermentation time and 3% v/w inoculum-substrate ratio with total phenolic content yield of 341.69 mg GAE/ml. Thus, obtaining a phenolic-rich fermented puree demonstrates potential as a functional ingredient for various food applications.  

Although nanotechnology can increase global food production, the widespread application of nanoparticles (NPs) in agriculture is relatively slow due to concerns on accumulation, translocation, and toxicity in food crops. One such NP is the Cu-based NPs since Cu is a micronutrient and exhibits antimicrobial and antifungal activities. In this study, the uptake and toxicological effects of CuNP and CuONP in cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata) and pechay (B. rapa L. var. chinensis) seedlings were investigated. High concentrations of both NPs increased catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and malondialdehyde, while decreasing chlorophyll and carotenoids, likely due to excess ROS. These results are consistent with the inhibitory effects observed on seedling growth. AAS analysis confirmed that the phytotoxic symptoms may be attributed to the accumulation of Cu. Overall, results demonstrated that in both crops, the relative toxicity of the Cu test solutions tested is CuNP > CuONP > CuObulk with particle size as the main factor causing toxicity. CuNP is more phytotoxic in pechay than cabbage, but the reverse is true for CuONP. TC50 for cabbage are 22.39 ± 1.02 mg/L CuNP, 29.06 ± 1.75 mg/L CuONP, and 353.58 ± 16.41 mg/L CuObulk, and TC50 for pechay are 17.38 ± 2.14 mg/L CuNP, 71.72 ± 3.03 mg/L CuONP, and 371.52 ± 22.79 mg/L CuObulk. Thus, Cu-based NPs can bioaccumulate in the food chain and the ecosystem through crop plants, such as cabbage and pechay.

No studies have compared the agronomic, chemical, and feeding values of ensiled Guinea grass cultivars in buffaloes in Leyte, Philippines. This study evaluated the agronomic traits, chemical composition, in situ degradation, and feeding value of fresh and ensiled Guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus Jacq.) cultivars—Local Guinea grass (LG) and Mombasa Grass (MG)—harvested at 30- and 45-day cutting intervals (CI). LG30, LG45, and MG45 produced more tillers and leaves/hill than MG30 (p=0.05). MG had higher leaves/tiller, leaf-to-stem ratio, and root biomass (p=0.05), while herbage yield (HBY), dry matter yield (DMY), and height were similar across treatments (p>0.05). A 45-day CI improved leaves/tiller, HBY, DMY, and root biomass (p=0.05). MG had higher ash and crude protein, while LG had more dry matter (DM), organic matter, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF; p=0.01). Gross energy (GE) and ether extract (EE) were similar between cultivars, but GE was higher at 45 days and EE at 30 days. LG45 had the highest acid detergent lignin. MG30, LG30, and fresh MG (FMG) exhibited the highest DM degradation, with MG30 showing superior NDF and ADF degradation (p=0.002). MG30 had the highest effective degradability (ED) of DM, NDF, and ADF, while fresh LG (FLG) had the lowest (including FMG for ADFED; p=0.0008). Feeding trials showed similar outcomes except for body condition score, which was lowest in FLG (p=0.01). MG showed better agronomic and chemical characteristics than LG from an animal nutrition perspective, with MG30 silage being the most digestible and suitable for buffalo feeding.

Maize (Zea mays L.) is a vital alternative food source in the Philippines; however, its nutritional profile is often inadequate for supporting human growth. To enhance its nutritional value, nixtamalization—an ancient Mesoamerican processing technique—is employed. This study investigates the effects of ultrasonic treatment on the nixtamalization of two Philippine maize varieties, IPB Var 6 and LB Lagkitan, using calcium salts as a processing agent. Optimal processing conditions were determined using the Box Behnken design (BBD) comprising fifteen experimental runs per variety. For IPB Var 6, optimal conditions yielded a WAI of 2.43 g gel/g dry matter and a WSI of 4.95% (ultrasonic treatment = 15 min, cooking time = 10 min, steeping time = 8 h). LB Lagkitan demonstrated a higher WAI of 2.61 g gel/g dry matter and a WSI of 6.04% (ultrasonic treatment = 10 min, cooking time = 21 min, steeping time = 8 h). Ultrasonic treatment significantly enhanced pericarp removal and improved the physicochemical, morphological, and thermal properties of nixtamal. The use of calcium carbonate as the alkaline source facilitated controlled calcium absorption while reducing phosphorus levels after 8 hours of steeping. Further characterization revealed that IPB Var 6, recognized for its quality protein content, and LB Lagkitan, a waxy maize variety, exhibited apparent amylose contents of 23.7% and 7.59%, respectively. Additionally, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy identified key components, including carbohydrates and amide groups, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showcased polygonal and irregular starch granules resulting from the reduced cooking time. Cooking and calcium-starch interactions were shown to significantly influence viscosity, gelatinization, retrogradation, and thermal stability. This study confirms that the integration of ultrasonic treatment enhances traditional nixtamalization, improves processing efficiency, and preserves the quality of nixtamal, offering a promising avenue for sustainable maize processing.

Prawn aquaculture in the Philippines plays a vital role in the global economy with a significant contribution to seafood production. However, disease outbreaks and antimicrobial resistance have caused a decline in its cultivation. Thus, probiotics are employed as a safer strategy to improve prawn health and minimize diseases, such as Vibriosis. This research aims to identify the viable microorganisms present in commercial aquaculture probiotics, assess the antagonistic activity against Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and evaluate its effects on the growth and immunity of Macrobrachium rosenbergii when incorporated in feeds. Phenotypic and molecular methods through 16S and 18S rRNA sequencing were performed, and antimicrobial potential was evaluated through agar-well diffusion assay and spectrophotometric measurement. Subsequently, juvenile prawns (n=20) were fed a basal diet alone (control) or with 5 g/kg probiotic supplementation (treatment) for 7 days and infected with V. parahaemolyticus R1 through immersion method.

Results revealed that the probiotics contain diverse genera of primarily soil-derived microorganisms, including spore-forming Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) Sporolactobacillus, Bacillus, Priestia, Staphylococcus and fungal Aspergillus species. Mixed probiotics can effectively inhibit Vibrio growth with 16±3 mm of zone of inhibition (ZOI), and addition of probiotics resulted in 58.32% relative growth decrease. Administration of probiotics resulted in increased growth, improved survival, and enhanced immune responses of prawns based on total hemocyte count (THC), phenoloxidase (PO), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity during challenge test (p<0.05). Findings of the study exhibited the promising effects of probiotic mixture in improving the growth of aquatic organisms while inhibiting harmful pathogens, essential for aquaculture applications.

White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) outbreaks continue to threaten the Philippine shrimp aquaculture industry. While RNA interference (RNAi) offers a promising approach to combat WSSV by silencing essential genes, the high cost of synthetic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) limits its implementation. The study presents an engineered Lactiplantibacills plantarum as a probiotic-based dsRNA delivery system targeting the viral protein 9 (VP9), a critical component in WSSV replication. The 249-bp VP9 gene was cloned into pUC57 vector, forming a 601-bp cassette flanked by restriction sites for ligation into pWH1520 shuttle vector. Transformation of the pWH1520-VP9 in Escherichia coli DH5a was confirmed through colony PCR with specific and chimeric primers. Moreover, dsVP9 expression was verified in E. coli HT115, prior to electroporation into competent L. plantarum at 10 kV/cm at 5 milliseconds. Transformants were selected on MRS with 30 µg/mL tetracycline, and the integration of the pWH1520-VP9 in the colonies was validated through PCR using VP9-specific and chimeric primers. Induction with 0.25% xylose triggered dsVP9 production, and RT-PCR confirmed the dsVP9 production. Authenticity of the dsVP9 was proven through its resistance to DNAse and RNAse A, and its degradation to RNAse III. In vivo trials in post-larval Penaeus monodon fed with comercial feed mixed with L. plantarum dsVP9 for 14 days exhibited significantly higher survival (73%), compared to comercial feed alone (42%) or with wild-type L. plantarum (13%) over 14 days post-WSSV challenge. The study highlights the potential of an engineered probiotic as a cost- effective, gut-compatible RNAi-based antiviral strategy for sustainable shrimp farming.

and offers better yields compared to traditional types. However, Makapuno embryos require rescue due to abnormal development of the endosperm, which prevents natural germination. To enhance propagation efficiency, incision and splitting techniques were applied to zygotic embryos to double plantlet production for rapid multiplication. This study evaluated the in vitro growth response of VMAC 1 hybrid Makapuno embryos cultured in modified Y3 (mY3) medium supplemented with varying levels of coconut water (50, 100, and 150 mL L-1) and fixed levels of plant growth regulators (1 mg L-1 NAA and 2 mg L-1 BAP), using a Factorial-Completely Randomized Design. 

Results revealed that the embryo splitting technique, specifically in halved embryo A, significantly enhanced shoot and root initiation compared to the incision method. The use of mY3 medium supplemented with 1 mg L-1 NAA and 2 mg L-1 BAP led to the earliest and most vigorous shoot and root growth, longest shoot and root lengths, and highest survival and shootlet proliferation rates. While moderate coconut water levels (50-100 mL L-1) supported early growth, high concentrations of coconut water (150 mL L-1) delayed development and increased contamination risk. 

The study demonstrated that embryo splitting can produce true-to-type plantlets from a single embryo and that synthetic PGRs are more effective than coconut water alone for promoting in vitro growth in Makapuno embryo culture.

Keywords: Makapuno, coconut water, plant growth regulator, incision, splitting

and offers better yields compared to traditional types. However, Makapuno embryos require rescue due to abnormal development of the endosperm, which prevents natural germination. To enhance propagation efficiency, incision and splitting techniques were applied to zygotic embryos to double plantlet production for rapid multiplication. This study evaluated the in vitro growth response of VMAC 1 hybrid Makapuno embryos cultured in modified Y3 (mY3) medium supplemented with varying levels of coconut water (50, 100, and 150 mL L-1) and fixed levels of plant growth regulators (1 mg L-1 NAA and 2 mg L-1 BAP), using a Factorial-Completely Randomized Design. 

Results revealed that the embryo splitting technique, specifically in halved embryo A, significantly enhanced shoot and root initiation compared to the incision method. The use of mY3 medium supplemented with 1 mg L-1 NAA and 2 mg L-1 BAP led to the earliest and most vigorous shoot and root growth, longest shoot and root lengths, and highest survival and shootlet proliferation rates. While moderate coconut water levels (50-100 mL L-1) supported early growth, high concentrations of coconut water (150 mL L-1) delayed development and increased contamination risk. 

The study demonstrated that embryo splitting can produce true-to-type plantlets from a single embryo and that synthetic PGRs are more effective than coconut water alone for promoting in vitro growth in Makapuno embryo culture.

Keywords: Makapuno, coconut water, plant growth regulator, incision, splitting

The study examined the impact of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) supplementation on the feeding behavior, laying performance, and egg quality traits of Dekalb White layers in a caged and cage-free housing system.  Ninety-six (96) hens were assigned to a 2x3 factorial design, analyzing rearing systems (caged/cage-free) and BSFL supplementation levels (0%, 10%, 20%). Cage-free birds showed significantly longer feeding durations (p<0.05). Scratching frequency and nesting duration, unique to cage-free systems, were highest with 20% BSFL supplementation (p<0.05). Uncaged birds with 0% BSFL showed significantly higher VFI (p<0.05). Notably, caged hens with 20% BSFL exhibited the best laying performance (p<0.05). Analysis of egg quality revealed a significant interaction effect (p < 0.05) for egg shape index (ESI) only, where caged hens on a 0% BSFL diet attained the maximum value. Yolk weight and yolk color were significantly higher in uncaged hens receiving 20% BSFL (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the uncaged housing system independently exhibited significant effects on egg weight, egg height, egg width, shell weight, shell thickness, and albumen weight (p < 0.05). The yolk-albumen ratio, however, did not differ significantly across treatments (p > 0.05). The financial analysis of this study revealed that caged birds given 10% dietary supplementation of BSFL were found to be economically viable. It was concluded that both housing systems and BSFL levels exert significant effects on the feeding behavior, laying performance, and egg quality traits of layer chickens. 

Keywords: black soldier fly larvae, cage-free system, Dekalb white layers, feeding behavior, laying performance, egg quality traits 

Bulb onion (Allium cepa L.), known as “Queen of the Kitchen,” is widely cultivated for its culinary and medicinal uses. However, insect pest and disease management remains a significant challenge for vegetable growers, particularly amid rising production costs. Wood vinegar, a biostimulant and natural pesticide, mimics plant growth regulators and offers a sustainable option for crop enhancement. This study was conducted to assess the effects of wood vinegar types and dilution rates on the growth, yield, and postharvest quality of onion. The experiment followed a split-plot arrangement in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The main plots consisted of two types of wood vinegar (jackfruit and papaya), while the subplots included six dilution rates: control, 500x, 400x, 300x, 200x, and 100x. Treatments were applied via soil drenching two weeks after transplanting and repeated every three days until maturity. Results revealed that both types of wood vinegar improved overall horticultural traits of onion, especially at lower dilution rates. Papaya wood vinegar significantly enhanced plant height, number of leaves, and total dry biomass. While the types did not significantly influence total yield, the dilution rates demonstrated considerable effects. Notably, the 100x and 200x dilutions resulted in higher marketable bulb weight, larger bulb dimensions, a greater proportion of mediumsized bulbs, and fewer non-marketable bulbs. Postharvest qualities were largely unaffected, except for bulb firmness and pH, which were improved at lower  dilutions. These findings suggest that wood vinegar, particularly at 100x and 200x,  can effectively enhance onion growth, yield and quality.

Agarwood is a valuable aromatic resin formed in Aquilaria species, traditionally used in incense, perfumes, and medicine. Overharvesting of wild populations due to rising demand has raised conservation concerns, prompting the need for sustainable production methods such as microbial induction. This study investigated endophytic bacteria isolated from Aquilaria cumingiana stems and evaluated their potential as bioinoculants for artificial agarwood production. 


A mixed culture of the three most dominant strains - Bacillus altitudinis, Bacillus cereus, and Bacillus siamensis - was formulated as a bacterial inoculum (BI) and compared with a commercial inoculum (CI) and a negative control inoculum (NI). Surface area of the formed agarwood was measured at 3- and 5-months post-inoculation. BI induced a marginally significant increase in agarwood formation at 3 months (2.10 ± 0.74 mm) compared to NI (0.97 ± 0.21 mm; p = 0.059), suggesting early induction potential. Although CI showed significant results at 5 months, the bacterial treatment demonstrated effective early stimulation of resin formation, highlighting its promise for sustainable and eco-friendly agarwood cultivation. 

This study marks the first documented attempt in the Philippines to induce agarwood formation using native endophytic bacteria from A. cumingiana, contributing to the development of environmentally sound approaches for local agarwood production.

This study investigated the effects of an energy-deficient diet supplemented with an exogenous liquid emulsifier on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood lipid profile, carcass yield, and economics of broiler chickens. The study was conducted at the University of the Philippines Los Baños. A total of 240 heads of day-old Ross 308 chickens were used for the feeding trial and 24 heads for the digestibility trial. The chickens were randomly allocated to three dietary treatments, with ten replicates per treatment. The treatment diets consisted of a positive control (PC), a PC reduced with 100 ME (kcal/kg) (NC), and NC with 0.02% exogenous liquid emulsifier (NCE). The study lasted for 35 days, and data were collected on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood lipid profile, and carcass yield. 

The results showed that broiler chickens have higher (p<0.05) ADFI for NC at d 11-24 and d 0-35 whereas both NC and NCE have higher (p<0.05) ADFI at d 25-35. Moreover, the NC and NCE significantly increased (p<0.05) the ATTD of crude fat and reduced (p<0.05) the blood cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL levels of birds. The carcass yield was significantly higher (p<0.05) in NC and NCE. Additionally, birds in NC had higher economic efficiency. In conclusion, the inclusion of an exogenous liquid emulsifier at 0.02 % in the 100 kcal/kg-deficient diet did not improve the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood lipid profile, carcass yield, and diet economics of broiler chickens.

This study assessed the effects of various organic and inorganic treatments on the specific growth rate (SGR), biomass accumulation, and carrageenan yield of three Kappaphycus alvarezii morphotypes—green, brown, and red—cultivated in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur. Treatments included inorganic commercial fertilizer, Kappaphycus sap, a commercial organic fertilizer (Algafer), and three seaweed-based liquid extracts (Ulva, Padina, and Sargassum), with untreated samples serving as controls. 

Results revealed that Sargassum extract consistently promoted the highest growth, biomass, and carrageenan yield across all morphotypes, with brown strains exhibiting the most robust response. Statistical analyses confirmed significant treatment effects on all variables (p < 0.05), highlighting the potential of seaweed-derived biofertilizers in enhancing the productivity of carrageenophytes. The superior performance of Sargassum and Kappaphycus sap is attributed to their rich content of phytohormones, polysaccharides, and micronutrients, which stimulate key physiological processes. 

These findings suggest that organic treatments offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic fertilizers and may enhance both economic yield and product quality in seaweed farming.

Keywords: seaweed biofertilizer, growth enhancement, biomass accumulation, carrageenan sysnthesis