Biotechnology for Agriculture and Forestry Program (BAFP)

The BAFP program undertakes research on biofertilizers, plant growth regulators, biostimulants, nanobiosensors, and animal vaccines. These innovative products and technologies are a huge stride in advancing market competitiveness of agricultural produce and increased revenue contributing to significant socio-economic impact to stakeholders. The BAFP products and technologies are intended to address agricultural sustainability while reducing costs of production.

Aims to develop cost-effective and environment-friendly microbial inoculants to increase crop productivity.
Produces Bio N microbial inoculants intended for farmers’ use as substitute for nitrogenous fertilizer by 50%. It also manufactures Bio N concentrates distributed to accredited Bio N mixing plants for reconstitution of the product and make it readily available for the farmers. The laboratory also conducts different experiments for rice, corn, and other agricultural crops, and extends its services to thesis students.
Performs research and development of microbial-based fertilizers and develops microbial inoculants technology for efficient conversion of agro-industrial wastes into quality biofertilizers as low-cost agricultural farm input. The laboratory also uses DNA-based techniques to formulate efficient microbial consortia as biostimulant for plants for increased crop productivity. It has hosted high school and university students in the conduct of their thesis, practicum, and on-the-job training, among others. The laboratory also offers training and extension on BOF Technology and publishes papers on biofertilizer development on microbial formulations for crop and soil productivity.
A Special Laboratory focused on research in macrofungi with pharmaceutical properties/components/activities and improvement of mycelia production protocols of selected nutraceutical fungi for production of bioactive metabolites.
Produces mycorrhiza and bacterial components of MykoPlus biofertilizer. The laboratory also collaborates with local government units and farmers for the use of the technology. It conducts functional characterization of microbes isolated from Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve and mine waste sites, and develops other technological products for use in agriculture and environment clean up.
Develops and formulates nanobiosensors for diagnostics, nanobiopesticide for the control of plant pathogens, nano-plant growth regulator for crop production and propagation, nanofertilizers for improved nutrient uptake by plants, metallic nanoparticles by plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) isolated from Philippine soil.
The re-established Vaccine Laboratory continues to develop new local vaccines for emerging and existing diseases in swine and poultry. Current research focus is on the development of an autogenous vaccine against Streptococcus suis and Pasteurella multocida derived from local farms and slaughterhouses. Candidate vaccine strains characterized thru biochemical and molecular techniques are further evaluated in an IACUC compliant animal facility recently constructed at BIOTECH.
Deals primarily with a type of endomycorrhizae that form branches and vesicles inside the roots to establish a symbiotic relationship between plants. The laboratory pioneers research in the characterization and utilization of nutrient-solubilizing microorganisms. Products such as Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Root Inoculant (VAMRI), Oryzinc, and various nutrient-solubilizing inoculants were developed and are being produced here. The laboratory is also an FPA-accredited facility for testing mycorrhizal inoculants in the country.

PROGRAM LEADER

RESEARCHERS

Cristine Marie B. Brown, MSc
University Researcher II
Emer C. Gestiada, MSc
University Researcher II
Lovely B. Willauer
University Researcher II
Ma. Theresa Jonna A. Atienza-Parcon, MSc
University Researcher II
Robert A. Nepomuceno, MSc
University Researcher II
Susan A. Sedano, MSc
University Researcher II
Jean Louise C. Damo, PhD
University Researcher I
Vita A. Pacia, MSc
University Researcher I
Christian Oliver A. Kalaw, MSc
University Research Associate II
Jonalyn M. Mangaban
University Research Associate I
Patricia Mae H. Punzalan
University Research Associate I

PROGRAM STAFF

Anita C. Galang
Laboratory Technician III
Delfina S. Iringan
Laboratory Technician III
Marites Q. Lantican
Laboratory Technician III
Carmena Nimfa G. Cayabyab
Laboratory Technician II
Edison S. Abrigo
Laboratory Technician II
Sylvia I. Lazaro
Laboratory Technician II
Cesinande H. dela Rosa
Farm Worker II
Rodelio G. Cuevas
Administrative Aide IV
Ariel M. Lazanas
Administrative Aide III