Lauro Braganza, Author at Sustainable Agriculture

Mar282024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Maximizing Cassava’s Potential: A Sustainable Solution for Livestock Feed

Cassava, known scientifically as Manihot esculenta, has been a staple crop in the Philippines for centuries. Despite its versatility and multiple uses, including human consumption, medicinal purposes, and industrial applications, its potential as a feed ingredient for livestock has been largely untapped. While local research dating back to the 1970s and 1980s has highlighted the viability of cassava as a partial replacement for corn in animal feed, the livestock industry has yet to embrace this opportunity fully. This article explores the benefits of utilizing cassava as livestock feed, its current status in the Philippines and globally, and potential strategies to maximize its utilization. Cassava: An Overview Cassava, also known as balinghoy or kamoteng-kahoy locally, is a root cro...

Mar282024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Unlocking Sustainability: The Role of Stingless Bees in Apiculture

Livestock

Bees play a crucial role as pollinators, ensuring the continuity of various ecosystems and the sustenance of countless plant species, including those vital for agriculture. However, this essential partnership between bees and flowering plants is threatened due to declining bee populations, which poses significant challenges to the apiculture industry worldwide. Amidst these challenges, there's a glimmer of hope in the form of stingless bees, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional beekeeping practices. Let's explore how these fascinating creatures transform the landscape of apiculture and pave the way for a more sustainable future. The Buzz of Decline: Colony Collapse Disorder and its Impact According to Dr. Cleofas R. Cervancia, president of Apimondia Regional Commission in As...

Mar282024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Unlocking the Potential of Jackfruit: A Key Player in Philippine Agriculture

Agriculture, News & Opinion

In the verdant lands of the Philippines, a versatile and resilient fruit tree has long been a staple in local diets and a symbol of cultural heritage—the jackfruit, known locally as "langka." From its humble beginnings as a backyard crop to its potential as a lucrative export commodity, the jackfruit holds a significant place in the country's agricultural landscape, particularly in the Visayas region. Cultural and Culinary Significance Jackfruit is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture as a food source and a versatile ingredient in various culinary creations. Jackfruit cultivation thrives in the Visayas, particularly in Western, Central, and Eastern Visayas, with nearly half of the region's land dedicated to its production. Traditionally, jackfruit trees were grown in backyard gardens, pr...

Mar282024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Nurturing Organic White Corn Farming in Ilocos Norte

Agriculture, News & Opinion

Corn, an integral part of the Filipino agricultural landscape since the Spanish colonization era, has found a prosperous home in the picturesque region of Ilocos Norte. Among the diverse corn varieties cultivated in this region, organic white corn stands out for its cultural significance, economic viability, and environmental sustainability. This article delves into the nuances of organic white corn farming, exploring its benefits, cultivation techniques, and financial prospects. The Case for Organic White Corn Farming Traditional farming practices rely heavily on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, leading to soil degradation and environmental pollution. White organic corn farming offers a sustainable alternative by emphasizing organic fertilizers and integrated pest management techniq...

Mar282024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

A Comprehensive Guide to Turmeric Farming and Production

Agriculture

Thriving in warm, sunny climates, turmeric farming involves cultivating the turmeric plant for its vibrant orange rhizomes, the source of the popular spice. This labor-intensive process requires well-drained soil, careful watering, and harvesting the mature rootstocks after nearly a year. Turmeric, a golden-hued spice hailed for its culinary, medicinal, and cultural significance, has been revered for centuries. Native to the lush monsoon forests of Southeast Asia, turmeric, scientifically known as Curcuma longa, is a perennial herb celebrated for its underground rhizomes. Belonging to the same botanical family as ginger, turmeric thrives in hot, humid tropical climates, offering a vibrant addition to gardens and a plethora of health benefits and economic opportunities for cultivation. ...

Mar282024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Mung Bean Farming and Production Guide

Agriculture

The mung bean, also known as mongo in the Philippines, is often overlooked as a nutritional powerhouse. This versatile legume boasts an impressive protein content, making it a valuable addition to any diet. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to cultivate your mung beans, from planting to storage - a complete guide to mung bean farming. A Nutritional Champion Mung beans are a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids the body needs. With a 20-25% protein content, they are a budget-friendly alternative to meat, especially valuable in regions where animal protein might be scarce. But their benefits extend far beyond protein. Mung beans are rich in vitamins, calcium, and sodium, addressing deficiencies common in many diets. They are also a good source of ...

Mar282024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

From Seed to Supermarket: Your Guide to Onion Farming in the Philippines

Agriculture

Onions, our beloved "sibuyas," are a cornerstone of Filipino cuisine. Their sharp flavor adds depth to countless dishes, from sizzling adobo to refreshing salads. But have you ever wondered how these pungent bulbs go from farm to table? This comprehensive guide delves into the world of onion farming in the Philippines, equipping you with the knowledge to cultivate your own or appreciate the hard work behind this essential ingredient. Knowing Your Onions: Varieties and Seasons The Philippines cultivates two main types of bulb onions: yellow and red. Yellow onions, popular in traditional markets, come in "granex" (flat) or "grano" (round) varieties. These "short-day" onions thrive when planted earlier, typically in October. Red onion varieties, known for their longer storage life, are pl...

Mar282024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Why Onions in the Philippines are So Expensive

Agriculture, News & Opinion

Onions, the humble vegetable found in kitchens worldwide, have a significant presence in the culinary culture of the Philippines. However, despite being a staple ingredient in many Filipino dishes, onions often come with a hefty price tag in local markets. This raises the question: why are onions so expensive in the Philippines? In this article, we'll delve into the layers of this issue to understand the factors contributing to the high cost of onions in the country. Historical Context To understand the current pricing dynamics of onions in the Philippines, it's essential to delve into the country's historical context of onion cultivation and trade. Onions are not native to the Philippines and were introduced during the Spanish colonial period. Since then, they have become integral to Fi...

Mar282024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Soybean Farming and Production Guide

Agriculture

Soybeans are a powerful agricultural player, boasting exceptional nutritional value and vast industrial applications. This guide delves into everything you need to know about soybean farming and commercial production in the Philippines, ensuring a successful and sustainable harvest. Soybean Farming Benefits The benefits of soybean farming are far-reaching: Food Source: Soybeans are a nutritional powerhouse, providing protein for human consumption through soy milk, tofu, tempeh, and other products. Versatile Oil: Soybeans are a prime source of high-quality vegetable oil for cooking and industrial applications. Industrial Uses: Soybeans contribute to various industries, including producing biofuels, plastics, and lubricants. Soil Enhancement: Soybeans improve soil fertili...

Mar282024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

The Potential Profit of Rabbit Farming in the Philippines

Livestock

The Philippines, known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, is also exploring new avenues in the livestock industry. One such avenue with promising potential is rabbit farming. But is raising rabbits for meat or breeding indeed a profitable venture? Let's delve into Philippine rabbit farming, exploring its advantages, challenges, and critical factors for success. The Allure of Rabbit Farming Rabbit farming boasts several advantages, making it an attractive option for Filipino farmers, particularly those with limited land space. Here are some key reasons why rabbit farming is gaining traction: Low Startup Costs: Rabbits require significantly less initial investment than traditional livestock like pigs or cows. Housing can be built using readily available materials, an...