As part of the project, “Production and Promotion of Selected Medicinal Plants for Alternative Health and Wellness to Community Empowerment Thru Science and Technology (CEST) Communities in Central Luzon”, the Institute of Plant Breeding (IPB) organized a “Training of Trainers on Cultural Management and Propagation of Selected Medicinal Plants” on August 17, 2023.

Dr. Evelyn F. Delfin, a university researcher and career scientist, highlighted in her opening remarks the significance of the science-based intervention. “Enhancing the technical know-how of managing and propagating selected medicinal plants is needed towards establishing herbal gardens for the marginalized communities”.

University researchers, Ms. Maria Lea H. Villavicencio and Dr. Maria Luisa D. Guevarra, lectured on the cultural management practices for asexually and seed-propagated medicinal plants, from sowing to pest and disease management. The participants, composed of project technical assistants, were also taught how to set up a vertical garden and cultivate medicinal plants such as Akapulko, Pansit-pansitan, Ampalaya, Sambong, Tsaang Gubat, Lagundi, and Yerba Buena.

Moreover, Ms. Catherine R. Patricio, Mr. Sandy A. Baldo, and Ms. Kristine Joy V. Carandang from the Fruits, Ornamental, and Medicinal Crops Section of IPB discussed and demonstrated different propagation techniques.

The participants from CEST and the Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) of Region III are expected to cascade their learnings to their stakeholders to promote the health and wellness of the communities. (Dianne B. Ubaldo)

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