The Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) Maasin City Campus, in collaboration with the Transformed and Resilient Community through Alternative Indigenous Livelihoods (TRAIL) Project-Cycle II, recently held a two-day training on environmental protection and efficient Karlang planting and growing in Barangay Lonoy, Maasin City. The event, which took place on March 21-22, 2025, was designed to empower local farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their agricultural practices while contributing to environmental conservation.

Before the training sessions began, a Focus Group Discussion (FGD), Community Mapping, and Participatory Rural Appraisal were conducted to understand the strengths and challenges within the community. These activities provided valuable insights into the needs and opportunities for sustainable agricultural practices in Barangay Lonoy.

The training program focused on essential topics such as Site Selection and Land Preparation, Karlang Planting and Growing, Harvesting and Post-Harvesting, which were expertly delivered by Mr. Dominador P.  Granada of the SLSU Hinunangan Campus. Mr. Granada, a recognized expert in the field of agriculture, shared his in-depth knowledge of Karlang planting and its importance to the local community. His expertise proved invaluable in ensuring that participants were equipped with the right techniques to successfully grow and harvest Karlang.

In addition to the practical sessions on Karlang cultivation, Dr. Jonathan J. Palco, a respected environmental advocate from SLSU Maasin City Campus, led a session on Environmental Protection. Dr. Palco's discussion highlighted the importance of safeguarding the environment and integrating sustainable practices into daily farming activities. His valuable insights emphasized how environmental protection can go hand in hand with successful agricultural ventures, creating a better future for both the farmers and the environment.

The event was graced by the active participation of Barangay Lonoy's farmers and constituents, who showed great enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. The training was also supported by the leadership of Barangay Lonoy, with Barangay Captain Hon. Celestino Laraga and Agriculture President Hon. Perfecto Ramos (who also serves as a member of the barangay council) attending and actively engaging in the sessions.

“The knowledge shared during this training is vital for our community's growth. We are hopeful that with the right skills and knowledge, Barangay Lonoy will become one of the leading Karlang growers in the region,” said Hon. Celestino Laraga, the Barangay Captain of Lonoy.

The two-day event concluded with a sense of optimism, as the community members left with enhanced skills, greater environmental awareness, and a renewed hope for a sustainable and prosperous future. The initiative by SLSU-Maasin City Campus through its TRAIL Project has sparked a promising pathway for Barangay Lonoy, and the new skills gained from this training are expected to help transform and strengthen the community in the years ahead.

With the support of experts, local leaders, and the active participation of the farmers, the future looks bright for the Karlang industry in Barangay Lonoy.