Lauro Braganza, Author at Sustainable Agriculture

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Angat Dam Level Dips Below Minimum

News & Opinion

Due to El Nio, water levels at the Angat Dam have receded below the minimum operating level, prompting authorities to cut irrigation and Metro Manila water allocations. As of 8 a.m. on July 8, the dam's water level was 179.94 meters, down from 180.41 meters the day before. The minimum operating level is 180 meters. David Jr., executive director of the National Water Resources Board (NWRB), said water allocations would need to be modified as the dam's water level drops below 180 meters. The Board determined that if the Angat Dam level falls beneath the minimum operating level of 180 meters, modifications would need to be made in the allocation for MWSS (Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System), NIA (National Irrigation Administration) and Metro Manila concessionaires Maynil...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Hybrid Rice Demo Farm Targets 275 Tons in Davao Del Sur Town

News & Opinion

The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-11) said Thursday that during the wet season, about 275 tons of rice will be harvested from a hybrid rice demo farm in Hagonoy town, Davao del Sur. DA-11 rice program coordinator Evelyn Basa said the project can contribute to the country's 2027 rice production target with a minimum yield of seven tons per hectare. In Barangay Sinayawan, Basa credited the project to DA-11, the Philippine Rice Board, the Davao del Sur provincial government, and the Hagonoy municipality. A 35-hectare farm showcases 24 rice varieties and technologies from different seed companies. Basa said in a statement that the demo farm will serve as an avenue for farmers to observe and learn various technologies on cultural management practices, mechanical ...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

DA’s Beekeeping Program Set to Go Nationwide

News & Opinion

MAMBURAO, Occidental Mindoro – The Department of Agriculture (DA) is gearing up to roll out its successful beekeeping program nationwide this year, following the triumph of the pilot initiative in Occidental Mindoro. Initially targeted at empowering local Mangyan tribesmen by providing them with a source of income and modern entrepreneurial skills, the program has exceeded expectations, prompting the government to expand its scope. In an interview on Tuesday, DA Undersecretary Deogracias Victor Savellano highlighted the positive impact of the beekeeping program on the local communities. The success of these small-scale ventures has encouraged the department to scale up the initiative, focusing on meeting the increasing demand for quality honey on the global market. The DA has joined ...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Imported Rice Arriving in the Philippines to Address Supply Concerns Until February 2024

News & Opinion

MANILA – To ensure a steady supply of rice and mitigate potential shortages, the Philippines is set to receive approximately 76,000 metric tons of imported rice from Taiwan and India throughout this month and early January, according to a Department of Agriculture (DA) statement. DA Undersecretary and officer-in-charge for operations, Roger Navarro, disclosed that nearly half a million metric tons of rice, imported by the private sector, are expected to arrive between December and early February. This aligns with the agreement between Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and holders of rice import permits. Navarro mentioned, “We received reports that around 100,000 tons of imported rice have already arrived in the country. This is part of the 495,000 metric tons committ...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Department of Agriculture Enhances Irrigation System to Mitigate El Niño Impact

News & Opinion

MANILA - In response to the looming threat of El Niño and its potential impact on the agricultural sector, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has made significant strides in improving and constructing approximately 740 kilometers of irrigation system canals as of November this year. The initiative aims to ease the potential repercussions of El Niño on farmers across the Philippines. On Friday, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr. disclosed that the DA has set a target to rehabilitate 843 kilometers of irrigation canals. The purpose is to ensure effective and efficient water distribution to farmlands, minimizing the adverse effects of the expected dry spell on the country's provinces and millions relying on agriculture and fisheries. El Niño, a challenge for PH irrigation syst...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Mangkono Tree: The Ironwood of the Philippines

Agroforestry

One of the Philippines' most incredible natural resources is the Mangkono tree, also known as "The Iron Wood Tree." This unique and valuable tree is a true gem of the Philippines, particularly in regions like Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Sur, Palawan, Samar, and Dinagat Island. The Mangkono tree (sometimes called Magkono), scientifically known as Xanthostemon verdugonianus, holds several lesser-known facts that make it a true natural wonder deserving of our attention. Tall and Skinny, Yet Incredibly Durable At first glance, the Mangkono tree might seem unimposing due to its relatively small to medium size, with a diameter of about 20-36 inches and a height of 30-40 feet. However, don't be deceived by its slender appearance. The Mangkono tree boasts a hard, thin, and smooth bark, contr...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Why Narra Wood is So Expensive

Agroforestry

Narra wood, renowned for its stunning beauty and remarkable durability, is highly sought after in woodworking and furniture making. This exquisite wood, native to the Philippines, is known for its rich, reddish-brown color and fine grain, making it a favorite among artisans and craftsmen. But why is Narra wood so expensive? To understand the factors driving its price, we need to explore the world of narra trees, their uses, conservation efforts, and the legal framework surrounding their protection. What is Narra Tree The narra tree, scientifically known as Pterocarpus indicus, is a majestic hardwood species endemic to Southeast Asia and the Pacific region. In the Philippines, it is often called the "Philippine mahogany" due to its remarkable similarity to mahogany in terms of its color, ...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

What is “Tree Earth-Balling”?

Agroforestry

The term "earth-balling" has gained popularity in discussions about various projects involving trees, such as constructing the Cebu Coastal Road tunnel and road improvement along S. Osmeña Boulevard. But what exactly does earth-balling entail? Earth-balling is crucial for relocating mature trees or vegetation that has grown past their seedling stage. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has provided comprehensive guidelines for transplanting mature trees, ensuring their survival, and protecting the environment. In this article, we will delve into earth-balling, its procedures, and the significance of preserving trees in urban areas and those affected by government infrastructure projects. The DENR's guidelines for earth-balling are outlined in a memorandum issued b...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

5 Philippine Native Tree Windbreaks that Can Protect Your Crops from Typhoon

Agroforestry

The Philippines is a beautiful archipelago, but it's also a region frequently battered by the relentless forces of nature. The impact on agriculture and livelihoods is significant, with the country experiencing 15 to 20 typhoons yearly. The destructive power of these typhoons, characterized by severe flooding and strong winds, can leave farmers struggling to recover. While we cannot prevent typhoons, we can certainly take measures to mitigate their damage. One of the most effective methods is the installation of natural windbreaks, which can reduce and redirect the impact of strong winds. These windbreaks are rows of trees or shrubs strategically planted to act as barriers against the relentless gusts of typhoon winds. Windbreaks serve a crucial purpose in typhoon-prone regions. They re...

Apr142024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Bamboo Trees Can Help Control Flood

Agroforestry

"Sometimes the Best Things are Right in Front of You" - Gladys Knight We live in a complex world where we often overlook the value of the simple and ordinary. It's easy to get caught up in the grandiose and the elaborate, forgetting that sometimes, the best solutions are right before us. Gladys Knight's words resonate with a message that applies not only to life's philosophical aspects but also to practical challenges, such as flood control in urban areas. The recent heavy rains brought forth the perennial flooding problem in the bustling metropolis of Metro Manila. During this time, the Department of Agriculture (DA) announced an innovative approach to flood control: using bamboo as a critical element. This seemingly ordinary plant, found in abundance across the Philippines, has the...