The Institute of Plant Breeding (IPB) conducted a field day on August 20, 2024, at Brgy. Hernando, Anao, Tarlac, as part of the project titled “Assessment of CGUARD Breeding Populations for Yield Improvement and Adaptability to Environmental Stresses”.

The project, funded by the Department of Agriculture—Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR), is currently being implemented by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) under the leadership of Ms. Ayn Kristina M. Beltran, a university researcher from IPB’s Cereal Crops Section.

The said activity aimed to showcase the performance of the glutinous waterlogging composite in Region 3. A unique feature of this variety is its ability to produce a decent yield under submerged conditions. The waterlogging-tolerant trait majority came from the corn collections in the Region, which makes the composite more adaptable to the area. With this trait and promising yield, farmers are looking forward to utilizing the variety and exploring the market for glutinous corn.

The field day was attended by a total of fifty-five (55) participants, including officials and members from various farmer associations, local government officials, agricultural extension workers and representatives from DA-BAR and IPB. Moreover, this activity was held in collaboration with the Municipal Agriculture Office and the Anao Natural Integrated Farmers Association Incorporated, headed by Mr. Alvin A. Butay and Mr. Joel T. Fernandez, respectively.

Boiled and grilled corn was served to the participants, allowing them to observe the characteristics of the glutinous waterlogging composite corn taken from the field demonstration area. Some farmers provided positive feedback about the eating quality, specifically the sweetness, tenderness, and stickiness of boiled and grilled glutinous corn. The participants also received certificates of attendance and tokens during the event. (LG Matanguihan and MAL Parducho).

(Photos by John Saldy Avisu and John Mark Baguioan)