by Byron A. Cayabyab

As part of the National Biotechnology Week, spearheaded by the Commission on Higher
Education (CHED) in partnership with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) from
November 25 to 29, 2024, the Organic Agriculture Research, Development, and Extension
Center (OARDEC) managed by the Agricultural Systems Institute (ASI) of the College of
Agriculture and Food Science (CAFS) participated in the Biotechnology Fiesta Self-Guided Tour.

The center showcased, among others, the aromatic and medicinal garden, the vegetable
production and organic soil amendments area that demonstrates the 5Cs of organic agriculture, and the butterfly garden. Exhibits, such as the microgreens from the Institute of Crop Science and other concessionaires, were also featured at the event.

Guests included students, various organizations, agencies, LGUs, and private individuals who
participated in guided tours. On the last day of the event, the Chair of the Commission on
Higher Education (CHED), Dr. Prospero de Vera, along with UPLB officials such as Chancellor
Dr. Jose V. Camacho Jr. and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Dr. Agham C. Cuevas, visited
the center.