DOST CALABARZON, through the Provincial Science and Technology Center (PSTC) in Batangas, assisted Ramon B. Mitra of PhilHybrid Inc. in improving the farm production and irrigation system, as well as, his laboratory for culturing Makapuno. Mitra, a commercial producer of embryo-cultured Makapuno seedlings based in Barangay Sta. Teresita in Santo Tomas, received PhP0.76-million in assistance through the Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). He used the amount to install an irrigation system and implement an intensive fertilization program to boost his Makapuno nut production. An existing laboratory facility located in Los Banos was also upgraded.
In 2009, continuing farm and laboratory activities paid up. PhilHybrid now averages 900 makapuno seedlings annually valued at Php0.60-million. The project aims to assist in the development/enhancement of the Makapuno industry and help increase the income opportunities of local coconut farmers. (M A Servanez/A M Guevarra)
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