CSU INTRODUCES PRUTAS AS RESEARCH-DRIVEN ORCHARD MODEL FOR AGROFORESTRY INNOVATION

Cagayan State University (CSU) Aparri Campus led by Engr. Policarpio L. Mabborang Jr., formally launched its Orchard Project PRUTAS, or the Patchy Resource Utilization Trials to Augment Sea-based Systems”, a research-based initiative designed to test and optimize fruit tree adaptability across diverse ecological conditions, March 31, 2026.

The initiative is designed to test and optimize the adaptability of fruit-bearing trees across diverse ecological conditions, addressing gaps in localized agricultural research while contributing to food security and climate resilience.

Initiated under the leadership of Dr. Arthur G. Ibañez, the orchard establishment project builds on CSU’s earlier 45,000 Trees Project into a more integrated agroforestry model combining research, production, and extension.

Dr. Ibañez expressed gratitude to stakeholders and emphasized the need for sustained commitment, including monitoring the survival rate of previously planted trees and expanding orchard development across campuses.

He also shared that the Philippine Coconut Authority has committed to providing not only Macapuno but also aromatic coconut seedlings. These seedlings, which are more valuable than regular varieties, are expected to arrive next month.

Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension Dr. Audy R. Quebral emphasized that the project is a long-term institutional vision initiated by OIC President Arthur G. Ibañez: from the 45,000 Trees Project to a university-wide orchard system targeting at least 50 hectares of fruit-bearing plantations, with the goal of supplying Cagayan’s fruit requirements within five years.

Campus Executive Officer Engr. Policarpio L. Mabborang Jr. noted that despite challenging site conditions, the campus strategically identified suitable locations for orchard development, with phased implementation planned across multiple sites.

In his message of support, LGU Aparri, headed by Municipal Mayor Hon. Dominador J. Dayag, highlighted two key principles: resiliency, and sustainability. “As a coastal municipality, climate change is not theoretical, it is experienced through changing seasons,” he stressed, that progress becomes sustainable when governance and knowledge work together.

The launching concluded with the ceremonial planting of 640 seedlings, including jackfruit, rambutan, and dwarf coconut within the compound of the CSU Aparri campus.

Comprising the 45,000 Trees and Orchard Establishment initiatives, the two-phase Sustainable Greening Program of CSU is designed to restore ecological balance and transform institutional lands into productive, climate-resilient sites.

The initiative is supported by the Local Government Unit of Aparri, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and various partner agencies, including the Philippine National Police, Landbank of the Philippines, Development Bank of the Philippines, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Philippine Coconut Authority, Department of Education, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, Civil Service Commission, and Department of Social Welfare and Development.