Despite the rainy Saturday, nothing could deter the ASCOT School of Agriculture from advancing its “Pushing the Boton-On” tree planting initiative at ASCOT Bazal Campus on July 6, 2024.
The event was graced by notable attendees, including DOST Focal Person Engr. Maria Ana A. Espiritu, DTI-Aurora Provincial Head Aldrin M. Veneracion, the Municipal Agriculturist of Maria Aurora Mr. Wilson Candelario, ASCOT BOT Members, Private Representative Hon. Julius T. Grefalda, and Student Representative, SCSC President, Mx. Jawnel Martin O. Baldonade.
President Renato G. Reyes shared, “Yung suporta parang ulan, bumubuhos. Marami pang research and extension projects ang ating gagawin. Magpakasipag pa lalo tayo.” He also added, “Nakita ko may agwas. Isa ito sa susunod nating itatanim; Maaari din natin pag-aralan ang mga Philippine Native animals.” He expressed upon introducing the family of wild pigs (Baboy Ramo) he gifted to the campus.
Vice President for Academic Affairs and project leader of the Boton Fertilizer, Dr. Ma Luz F. Cabatan, emphasized, “Ang pagtatanim ng Buton dito sa paligid ng ASCOT ay one way for he sustainability of our projects.”
*Importance of the Buton Tree*
The Buton Tree (Barringtonia asiatica), known for its robust adaptability and numerous agricultural benefits, is at the heart of ASCOT’s organic fertilizer research and production. The tree planting activity at Bazal Campus is a crucial step in this research. The Buton Tree’s leaves and seeds are rich in saponins, which can be used to create an organic pesticide to combat the golden apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata), a notorious pest affecting vegetable gardens and rice fields. By cultivating the Buton Tree, ASCOT aims to develop sustainable and eco-friendly solutions for pest control and soil enhancement.
*ASCOT Research Findings*
A study conducted in 2020 by Dr. Ma. Luz F. Cabatan, Jomer B. Mangawang, Dr. Jonah G. Zante, and Chenie Mae T. Bibon at ASCOT Bazal Campus discovered that Buton seeds are rich in chemicals such as saponins, alkaloids, and cardiac glycosides. Their research observed that small snails die within just 10 seconds of exposure to Buton seed extracts.
*Funding Support*
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has provided significant funding for this project, recognizing its potential to contribute to sustainable agriculture. About Php 2,644,316 from DOST-III funds have been allocated to fill the budgetary requirements of the Buton Project. They also oversee its smooth implementation through the Provincial S&Toffice of Aurora.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has also expressed strong support. DTI Provincial Head Aldrin Veneracion emphasized the importance of commercializing ASCOT’s research products to enhance their impact on the local community. He stated, “How can we position ASCOT not only nationally but on an international level? Anong meron tayo na wala sila? We need to commercialize these research products to make a significant impact locally. At DTI, we focus on food industry development and the entire value chain, from production to marketing. Pag-aralan po natin.”
Municipal Agriculturist Candelario has been a steadfast supporter of the Bazal campus, emphasizing the need for sustainability in all projects. “Sustainability ang kailangan natin sa mga ganitong proyekto,” he noted.
SCSC President Jawnel Baldonade expressed enthusiastic support, commending ASCOT President and the administration for initiating and sustaining such impactful activities, describing the efforts as “Kabog.”
The event saw the active participation of key college officials, including President Renato G. Reyes, VP for Administration, Planning, and Finance Engr. Oscar C. Barawid, and VPAA cum Dean, School of Agriculture, Dr. Ma Luz F. Cabatan, and Campus Administrator Ian A. Abordo. DOST Representatives, including Engr. Maria Ana A. Espiritu, and Regine Maines were also present. Faculty and staff of the also showcased a unified effort towards advancing sustainable agricultural practices.
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The “Push the Boton-On” program aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting its broad impact and importance:
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – By promoting sustainable agricultural practices and organic pest control, the program contributes to creating more sustainable and resilient communities.
SDG 13: Climate Action – The initiative helps mitigate climate change by reducing the reliance on synthetic chemicals, which can have harmful environmental effects, and promoting the use of natural resources.
SDG 15: Life on Land – Planting Buton Trees and using them for organic fertilizer and pesticide supports biodiversity and soil health, enhancing terrestrial ecosystems.
SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals – The project exemplifies effective collaboration between educational institutions, government agencies, and local communities. By leveraging the expertise and resources of DOST and DTI, ASCOT is fostering innovation and sustainable practices that can be scaled and replicated. Such partnerships are vital in addressing global challenges and achieving sustainable development goals.
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