LICAB, NUEVA ECIJA — A total of 1,089 students, teachers, and parents in Licab, Nueva Ecija gained insights into science and technology (S&T)-based agricultural innovations during a simultaneous awareness seminar conducted by the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) Extension Center on September 3, 2026.

Titled “Exploring Sustainable S&T-Based Agricultural Innovation: A Seminar on Mushroom, Tilapia, ItikPINAS, and Goat Production,” the activity brought together 563 participants from Exequiel R. Lina High School (ERLHS) and 526 participants from Sta. Maria National High School (SMNHS).

Project Leader Mr. Ju-Mark Pagaduan set the tone for the activity by emphasizing the role of innovation in addressing agricultural challenges and encouraging the youth to view agriculture not only as a source of food but also as a potential avenue for entrepreneurship and livelihood.

The seminar featured four S&T-based agricultural innovations developed and promoted by CLSU, highlighting practical technologies that participants could explore for production, livelihood, and agri-entrepreneurship.

Mr. Elimar Urpiano discussed ItikPINAS Production, introducing participants to the Philippine Mallard Duck and its potential for the production of quality balut and salted eggs, as well as value-added products such as salted egg chips and kinulob.

For aquaculture, Ms. Mary Grace Padilla presented Red Tilapia Production, or “Ang Tilapia na May Twist,” showcasing red tilapia as an alternative to the commonly raised gray tilapia and discussing its production and market potential.

Meanwhile, Ms. Mariel Baldoz introduced Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus florida) Production, providing participants with an overview of its cultivation process—from tissue culture and grain spawn preparation to harvesting and value-added product processing.

Completing the four featured technologies, Mr. Urpiano also discussed Goat Production, popularly described as “The Poor Man’s Cow.” His presentation highlighted practical small-scale goat management and introduced breeds such as Boer and Anglo-Nubian, which are commonly raised for meat and breeding purposes.

School officials also expressed appreciation for CLSU’s initiative to bring agricultural technologies closer to young learners. Ms. Maria Canlas, Head Teacher III of ERLHS; Dr. Thelma Q. Alamon, SHS Master Teacher of SMNHS; and Ma’am Christina M. Bernardo, Master Teacher I of SMNHS, acknowledged the seminar’s contribution to exposing students to agricultural opportunities and potential livelihood pathways.

Through initiatives such as this, CLSU continues to promote the application of science and technology in agriculture while encouraging the youth to recognize farming as an innovative, productive, and potentially entrepreneurial field.