Empowering Communities through Agritourism: Blending Science, Agriculture, and Tourism

Strategic Insights -

Agritourism is a growing industry in the Philippines, and the Science and Technology for the Convergence of Agriculture and Tourism (SCICAT) farm in Los Banos is at the forefront of this movement. Established in 2018 with funding from the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), SCICAT aims to promote research and development (R&D)-based technology innovations in agriculture. The farm offers guided tours, skills training, and hands-on workshops on technology-based agricultural practices, empowering communities to secure their food supply and safeguard the environment.

Key Takeaways:

  • SCICAT, a government institutional farm, supports the Philippines' position as one of the leading agritourism destinations globally.
  • The farm features 13 technology packages under organic vegetable production, including herb production, black pepper production, and hydroponics.
  • SCICAT promotes experiential learning with chosen technologies and offers container gardening for household food production.
  • The farm welcomes walk-ins and organized student tours, providing a hands-on learning experience.
  • SCICAT not only addresses food security but also food safety by teaching people to grow their own food without chemicals.
  • The community-based tourist attraction creates employment and livelihood opportunities for residents.
  • The farm showcases different lowland and indigenous vegetables and legumes, such as pinakbet dish vegetables like eggplant and squash.
  • SCICAT Project Leader Melinda O. Mondonedo emphasizes that the farm's main goal is to promote R&D-based technology innovations in agriculture.

Statistics:

  • 2018: The year SCICAT was established with funding from DOST-PCAARRD.
  • 13: The number of technology packages under organic vegetable production at SCICAT.
  • Innings and organized student tours: SCICAT welcomes walk-ins and, offers experiential learning.
  • Container gardening: SCICAT promotes household food production through this method.
  • Employment and livelihood opportunities: The farm creates opportunities for residents.
  • Food safety: SCICAT teaches people to grow their own food without chemicals.

Sources:

  • Bureau of Plant Industry Science and Technology for the Convergence of Agriculture and Tourism (SCICAT) farm in Los Banos.
  • Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD).
  • Melinda O. Mondonedo, SCICAT Project Leader.