LUCENA CITY, Quezon – With this year’s theme, “STAARRCoco at Piggy Winnie, Makikisaya sa FIESTA, dala ang mga produkto ng Agham at Teknolohiya,” the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) CaLaBaRZon conjointly celebrated the Farmer and Industry Encounter through Science and Technology Agenda or FIESTA of the Southern Tagalog Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research, Development and Extension Consortium (STAARRDEC). The activity highlighted the technologies of coconut and native pig.

Senator Cynthia A. Villar, Chairperson of Committee on Agriculture and Food, led the ribbon cutting ceremony. Other distinguished guests such as Hon. David “Jay jay” C. Suarez, Governor of Quezon, Congresswoman Anna V. Suarez, Dr. Milo O. Placino, President of Southern Luzon State University, Dr. Hernando O. Robles, President of Cavite State University and Dr. Edwin C. Villar, Deputy Executive Director for Research and Development of Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources, Research and Development (PCAARRD) also graced the opening program. Adding to the line-up of activities, participating Consortium Member Institutions showcased their products, technologies and services through trade fair. ATI CaLaBaRZon exhibited products of Magsasaka Siyentistas and learning sites in the region such as Bee Good Agriventures, MoCa Farm, Luntiang Republika, Forest Wood Garden, Cortijo de Palsabangon and MS Severa Farm. At the same time, the Center distributed Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials to various guests and visitors.

One of the highlights of the activity was the recognition of awards during the appreciation and socialization night. Mr. Brian A. Belen, Magsasaka Siyentista of Farmers’ Information and Technology Services (FITS) Center of Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) Laguna, received the Most Outstanding Farmer Partner in Extension/Technology Transfer award in the region. ATI CaLaBaRZon also received Certificate of Recognition as an active member of the Consortium. Various activities of FIESTA include photo and poster making contest, investment forum and marketing clinic, technology demonstration, STAARRSikat student youth forum, STAARRHenyo, STAARRCoco and Piggy Winnie Challenge, and STAARRSarap cooking contest.

FIESTA aims to promote increased interaction among researchers, extension workers, local government units and technology users/clients. The activity was held on February 20 – 22, 2018 at Perez Park, Lucena City, Quezon.