On February 8, 2024, the Philippine Society of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineers (PSABE) Cavite Provincial Chapter held its inaugural convention at La Ulrich Land Farm Resort and Event’s Place in Brgy. Agus-os, Indang, Cavite. Themed "Perspectives and Solutions in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering: Addressing the Needs and Demands of the Local Government and Private Sector," the event aimed to tackle the specific challenges faced by agricultural and biosystems engineers (ABEs) in Cavite.
The
convention emphasized collaboration among local government units (LGUs), the
private sector, higher education institutions (HEIs), and research and
development institutions (RDIs). By fostering these partnerships, the event
sought to enhance the effectiveness of decentralization efforts and contribute
to sustainable agricultural development in the region.
Engr.
Vincent Vergara, the convention head and PSABE Cavite Chapter Treasurer, opened
the event with welcoming remarks, setting a collaborative tone for the
discussions to follow. Dr. Ruel M. Mojica, a board member of PSABE Region IV-A,
also delivered a welcome message, highlighting the importance of the event in
addressing local agricultural needs.
Keynote
speakers included Engr. Freddie Sisante, the Municipal Agriculturist of
Magallanes, Cavite, who shared his insights and initiatives regarding the role
of ABEs within LGUs. Engr. Jaykie Homer P. Hernandez, General Manager and Chief
Engineer of FREEN Works Construction and Engineering Services, presented his
experiences from the private sector, discussing how collaboration can lead to
innovative solutions in agricultural engineering.
The
program featured an open forum, allowing attendees to engage with the speakers
and discuss pertinent issues facing the agricultural sector. Following this,
nominations and elections were held for the new set of officers for 2024-2025,
reflecting the chapter’s commitment to leadership and governance.
Engr.
Kelvin Michael A. Crystal, the outgoing president, presented the
accomplishments of the PSABE Cavite Chapter for 2023-2024, showcasing the
chapter’s impact and contributions over the past year. A keynote address was
delivered by Crestituto C. Mangaoang, an ASEAN Engineer and PSABE Life
Achievement Awardee, who focused on "Water for Irrigation in the
Agri-Fishery Sector - Its Utilization and Efficiency," emphasizing the
critical role of water management in sustainable agriculture.
The
event concluded with a round table discussion to develop a framework for the
PSABE Cavite Chapter, allowing members to collaborate on future initiatives.
The newly elected officers for 2024-2025 were announced, with Engr. Jaykie
Homer Hernandez taking the presidency, alongside a team dedicated to advancing
the chapter's mission.
