SAN ILDEFONSO, BULACAN — First, third, and fourth-year students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (BSABEn) program at Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC) gained comprehensive insights into smart agriculture, modern agricultural mechanization, and postharvest technologies during the ABE 199 – Undergraduate Seminar held on September 16, 2026, at the BASC Function Hall. The day-long event served as a course requirement for the participating students, equipping them with practical knowledge to complement their academic training and prepare them for future careers in agricultural engineering.

Anchored on the theme “Innovate. Mechanize. Compete: Advancing Philippine Rice Agriculture,” the seminar highlighted the critical role of innovation and mechanization in boosting farm productivity and pushing the national agricultural sector forward. The program commenced with welcoming remarks from Engr. Shiela Marie F. Gatchalian, Program Chair of the BSABEn program, who earnestly urged students to listen carefully and take the seminar to heart, emphasizing its vital role in preparing them for their future careers and keeping them aligned with emerging industry developments.

The morning session featured resource experts from the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHILMech). Engr. Geraldine Palado-Chummac, a Science Research Analyst introduced by fourth-year student Mr. Cesar John Cruz, delivered a presentation titled “Smart Agriculture: Boosting Farm Productivity through Advanced Technology.” She detailed cutting-edge solutions for farm efficiency and elaborated on PHILMech’s mandate to generate, commercialize, and extend postharvest technologies. Ms. Rocia Charlotte T. Cucal, a Science Research Specialist I introduced by fellow senior student Ms. Jhena Shane Vergara, followed with a discussion on PHILMech-generated technologies designed to address real-world postharvest challenges faced by local farmers.

In the afternoon session, fourth-year student Ms. Ericka Salinas introduced Engr. Zipporah Mae I. Tomas, Science Research Specialist and Technical Staff at PHILMech, who spearheaded technical lectures on “Grain Drying: Principles and Systems” and “Moisture Content and Moisture Content Determination,” equipping students with essential expertise in proper grain drying and postharvest moisture management. The presentations transitioned into an open forum where students engaged directly with the guest experts, before the event concluded with the presentation of certificates of recognition to the PHILMech speakers for their valuable contributions to the students’ professional growth.

Through this initiative, the seminar successfully broadened the students’ understanding of modern agricultural practices and reinforced BASC’s commitment to producing well-equipped engineers ready to drive innovation, support local farmers, and lead the future of Philippine agriculture.

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