In a significant stride toward advancing local agricultural research and biodiversity conservation, the Balik Scientist Program team from the Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) conducted a comprehensive germplasm expansion initiative across key municipalities in Leyte and Biliran provinces.

Led by the university's Balik Scientist, the undertaking focused on gathering both wild and cultivated cacao accessions and ube clones to enhance existing agricultural research collections. The Leyte operations covered Baybay City, Abuyog, and the municipality of Leyte. A major highlight of the expedition was the acquisition of six distinct ube clones provided by the Philippine Root Crop Research and Training Center (PhilRootCrops) at the Visayas State University (VSU). These accessions are expected to bolster ongoing research on crop improvement and genetic preservation within the region.

Expanding the scope of the initiative, the Balik Scientist and the BiPSU technical and support team conducted continuous collection activities across Biliran Province, specifically in the municipalities of Cabucgayan, Caibiran, Biliran, and Naval. This phase yielded a total of 28 ube accessions, including valuable wild types, alongside 12 cacao accessions. These collections are intended to support conservation efforts and the establishment of biological infrastructure at the BiPSU Biliran Campus.

Wild ube plays a crucial role in conserving genetic diversity, strengthening food security, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting local livelihoods. As a naturally resilient crop, it serves as an important alternative food source, especially during periods of scarcity and environmental stress. The ongoing collection efforts accentuate the wide diversity of ube clones in the province, emphasizing their value not only for conservation but also for future crop improvement, development of climate-resilient varieties, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural development.

In addition to collecting plant materials, the field operations in Leyte resulted in the identification of two strategic farming sites, which have been marked as prospective partners for future collaborative research projects and technology-sharing initiatives.

By preserving these crucial agricultural resources, the initiative continues the institution's commitment to the weaving of worthiness by uplifting communities, securing food systems, and fostering a sustainable future for the region.

Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., University President, commended the milestone: "This initiative reflects our steadfast commitment to driving meaningful agricultural innovation. By securing and studying these indigenous genetic resources, we are not only advancing academic research but also empowering our local farming communities and ensuring a resilient, food-secure future."

The BiPSU team extends its sincere gratitude to the various institutions, private farms, local government units, and community collaborators that provided invaluable support and hospitality throughout the expedition. Special acknowledgment is given to all partner farm institutions, agricultural experts, local families, and municipal nurseries across the region for their collaborative efforts, generosity, and instrumental assistance in locating these crucial plant varieties.

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