On December 11, 2024, The Extension Service and Linkages Office of NEMSU San Miguel Campus conducted a training on the culture and production of entomopathogenic fungi, a sustainable pest control solution for farmers. It promotes these fungi that attack and kill pests but are non-toxic to humans, animals, and beneficial insects. These are effective against pests such as caterpillars, beetles, and flies.

The event commenced with a prayer led by Ms. Michelle G. Bareng, then was followed by opening remarks from Mr. Jeppy P. Malinao, Head of Extension Services and Linkages. He appreciated the presence of the parents and their unwavering support for the program. "We are thankful for your commitment to extending the knowledge beyond the school," said Mr. Malinao.

Hon. Eleuterio Silvoza inspired participants with an uplifting message of embracing the chance to learn. Mr. Glenn Biacolo introduced the participants and explained the purpose of the training by expounding NEMSU's mission of extending research and innovation to the local community. "Whatever research we produce, we strive to extend it to the community," he added. 

The resource speaker, Mr. Romnick Guillermo, L.Agri, highlighted the potential of fungi in pest control. "Not all fungi and insects are pests. What we discover here, we aim to share with you," he said. Among the entomopathogenic fungi species he brought with him were the green and white muscardine fungus used in insect control and Trichoderma for controlling diseases of plants. He emphasized that these solutions are given freely to farmers upon request. He assured that they would continue to produce fungi for future use as long as there was demand.

The hands-on training that the farmer participated in was at the Crop Protection Laboratory. The students from BSA, together with the extension agents, offered hands-on training to farmers. Farmers were trained to identify pests and beneficial insects, and practical exercises on the production of fungi were undertaken. The process of making it step by step was shown to all the participants by Mr. Guillermo.

The training had an emphasis on NEMSU's commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture and empowering local farmers through innovation. The farmers expressed their gratitude to the resource speaker, facilitators, extension head, and his staff for the intent of applying what they've sown during the training in their farms. Facilitators, as well, appreciated the chance to contribute to the farmers' development.