LOS BAÑOS, LAGUNA – Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC) is at the forefront of agricultural innovation, with two of its key leaders participating in a prestigious international training program aimed at shaping the future of farming in Southeast Asia. Dr. Imee D. Esguerra, Director for Extension Services, and Prof. Leah V. Indon, a faculty member from the Institute of Arts and Sciences (IAS), attended the week-long “Training-Workshop on Transformational Agricultural Innovation Systems for the New Futures (TrAInS)” from June 16-20, 2025.

Hosted by the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) at its headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna, the intensive workshop brought together 30 participants from Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. This diverse group of agricultural professionals, academics, researchers, and industry leaders engaged in hands-on mentoring sessions led by prominent regional experts.

The comprehensive program delved into a wide array of key topics and emerging concepts in agricultural innovation. Participants explored crucial policy frameworks, participatory technology generation, and the implementation of SMART agricultural practices. The training also featured hands-on workshops in Agricultural Innovation Systems (AIS) analysis, scenario planning, and road mapping.

Insightful discussions on digital communication campaigns, futures thinking, and the competencies necessary for agriculture’s future survival were also a core part of the curriculum. The training culminated in the presentation and critical review of action plans, which are aimed at advancing transformational change in AIS across the region.

A key highlight of the training was a visit to Bukid Amara, an innovative vegetable and flower farm located in Lucban, Quezon. This field trip provided a real-world perspective on modern farming techniques and precision agriculture in action, showcasing how technology can be integrated to enhance productivity and sustainability.

The participation of Dr. Esguerra and Prof. Indon underscores BASC’s proactive commitment to advancing agricultural education and extension services through regional collaboration and continuous learning. Their involvement in this cutting-edge program aligns with the goals of sustainable agriculture and supports key Sustainable Development Goals.

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Photo credits: SEARCA