DOST equips Caraga farmers with smart agri tools, weather tech to boost productivity
BUTUAN CITY — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in the Caraga Region has strengthened the capabilities of local farmers and agricultural workers through a training program on smart agriculture tools and weather-based technologies.
A total of 43 farmers and Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from Butuan City participated in the capacity-building activity, which focused on the use of digital applications and climate data to improve farm productivity and decision-making.
Participants were introduced to the Smarter Pest Identification Technology (SPIDTECH), a mobile application that allows users to identify crop pests and diseases by capturing field images. Facilitated by Noneth Labastilla, the session highlighted how early detection can help farmers take timely and appropriate crop protection measures.
Another key component of the training was the Community-Level SARAI Enhanced Agricultural Monitoring System (CL-SEAMS), presented by Doreina L. Lawangon. The platform enables users to monitor farm conditions, access localized climate and crop advisories, and make data-driven decisions for crop production.
The program also featured hands-on demonstrations on the installation and maintenance of Automatic Weather Stations (AWS), led by Russel John G. Chee. These systems gather real-time weather data—including rainfall, temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation—helping farmers plan planting schedules, irrigation, and other farm activities while reducing climate-related risks.
In his opening remarks, Noel M. Ajoc emphasized the importance of making scientific innovations accessible to farming communities. He noted that through Project SARAI CeNTRO, DOST promotes the adoption of digital and satellite-based technologies to support climate-resilient agriculture.
Local officials, including Pierre Anthony Joven and Ricardo N. Varela, also expressed support for initiatives that enhance the technological capacity of farmers and extension workers.
Meanwhile, Marciano L. Layola Jr., chairperson of a local farmers’ cooperative, welcomed the initiative, noting its value in improving pest monitoring and weather tracking for agricultural activities.
Aligned with DOST’s “Agham na Ramdam” agenda, the program aims to equip farmers with practical tools and knowledge that support science-based decision-making, leading to more resilient and productive agricultural communities.
Project SARAI, funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), is an action-research initiative designed to reduce climate risks by providing site-specific crop advisories and real-time farm data through digital platforms and resource centers. It forms part of DOST’s broader strategy to deliver innovative, inclusive, and sustainable solutions for the agriculture sector.
NPO News Team | Philippine Information Agency - PR
