09/05/2026
Innovation, Research, and Braveheart Spirit Take Center Stage at 2nd AGRICULTURE RESEARCH CONGRESS AND EXHIBITS!
The College of Agriculture, Northern Iloilo State University, Barotac Viejo Campus, sparked excitement and academic excellence on the second day of AgriWeek 2026, May 8, 2026, with the highly anticipated 2nd Agriculture Research Congress and Exhibitsโa vibrant showcase of innovation, scientific inquiry, and student creativity.
The event formally opened with inspiring messages from distinguished faculty and administrators who highlighted the growing importance of agricultural research and the enduring โBraveheartโ identity of NISU agriculturists.
Dr. Leif Marvin R. Gonzales warmly welcomed participants and guests, setting an energetic tone for the congress.
Dr. Ma. Ivy V. Agreda, Campus Director for Research and Development Services, emphasized the values and qualities that define a true NISU agriculturist โ passion, resilience, innovation, and service โ perfectly aligned with the Collegeโs proud โBraveheartโ tagline.
Dr. Ruby S. Yotoko, Campus Administrator, delivered an inspiring message encouraging students to continue pursuing excellence in agriculture and research.
Dr. Wilson U. Llegunas Jr., Dean of the College of Agriculture, underscored the vital role of agricultural research in addressing modern challenges in food security, sustainability, and rural development.
Meanwhile, Dr. Marjohn C. Nino, Head Committee Chair of the 2nd Agriculture Research Congress, presented the rationale and overview of the congress, explained the competition criteria, and introduced the distinguished panel of judges composed of faculty experts and research mentors.
The ceremonial ribbon-cutting officially opened the interactive food and poster exhibits, where students proudly displayed their ingenuity and scientific skills.
One of the major highlights of the event was the Future Foods Exhibit by first-year agriculture students, featuring imaginative and sustainable food creations under three exciting categories:
(i)The Green Crunch โ innovative dishes using weeds and green vegetables
(ii) The Exo-lent Dish โ creative arthropod-based food concepts
(iii) Vertebrata Suprema โ nutrient-rich vertebrate-inspired dishes
The congress also showcased the brilliance and confidence of young researchers through various competitions and presentations:
โฑ1. 3-Minute Research Presentation
Eleven First-year students creatively communicated their research experiments involving the application of chemical and biopesticides against crop pests โ all within just three minutes.
2. Research Proposal Pitching
Five finalist students, each from the Animal Science and Crop Science categories, confidently defended and pitched their research proposals before a panel of evaluators in a dynamic five-minute presentation and question-and-answer session.
3. Poster Presentation Competitions featured outstanding student outputs in:
โข Thesis Poster โ Animal Science
โข Thesis Poster โ Crop Science
โข Research Poster โ First Year
The event concluded on a high note with the awarding of certificates of appreciation and tokens to the panel of judges in recognition of their invaluable support and expertise. Closing remarks were delivered by Prof. Francis U. Batulio, who commended the students, faculty, and organizers for making the congress a meaningful celebration of research, innovation, and agricultural excellence.
The 2026 Agriculture Research Congress and Exhibits once again proved that the NISU College of Agriculture continues to cultivate not only future agriculturists, but also visionary researchers and Braveheart leaders ready to transform the future of Philippine agriculture.
The College thanked the following sponsors and collaborators during Agri-Week 2026: UNACHO, DA-ATI, San Miguel Corp., Iloilo Provincial Veterinarian's Office, DA-LGU Barotac Viejo, PCA, and CoAg Alumni.
