Soybean R&D project launched in Surigao del Sur

MANILA, Philippines — The country’s soybean industry is threatened by tight competition with other crops such as rice and corn in terms of production area.

This is further challenged by unfavorable supply chain and volatile prices.

The limited expansion of production and low utilization of soyfood hinder the industry’s take off.

To address this, the Surigao del Sur State University (SDSSU) has conducted a research program which aims to enhance soybean value chains.

Funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), the project seeks to develop sustainable soybean production in the uplands through improved cropping system, seed system, and varieties.

Upland farmers in Tandag, Tago, and San Miguel, Surigao del Sur will be encouraged to include soybean in their cropping systems and store seeds of improved varieties.

Household members will also be encouraged to include soybean as food at home and as source of income from soyfood product processing. 

Potential micro-entrepreneurs and consumers in urban areas will also benefit through soyfood processing seminars.

Soyfood-related enterprises will be promoted and technical assistance and linkages will be provided to different stakeholders.

Local government units (LGUs) will also be aided in their food sufficiency programs through the use of soybean in their health and nutrition campaign.

DOST-PCAARRD industry strategic S&T program (ISP) manager for legumes, Rolando Corpuz envisions SDSSU as the future soybean R&D center under the DOST’s niche centers in the regions for R&D program, which aims to capacitate higher education institutions (HEIs) through upgrading, development, and acquisition of S&T infrastructure and establish R&D centers that will cater to the specific needs of the Regions.