VSU-Verde Carbon AWD Project

The Agreen Training on the use of Agreen App for water monitoring in relation to the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) Project was successfully conducted by Ms. Joanna Marie Ang (System Development Analyst), Ms. Ruiya Li (Business Development Analyst) and Ms. Sherrene Chua (Operation Analyst) for Agricultural Technologists, Irrigators Association Presidents, Rice Farmer Cooperators and project staff on May 19 at Visayas State University in Leyte and on May 21 in Ubay, Bohol. The training focused on the application of Agreen technology for water monitoring to support the implementation of the AWD Project, particularly in promoting efficient irrigation management, sustainable rice production, and climate-resilient farming practices.

After the training in Leyte, the team also visited the field sites in Hilongos for the Wet Season 2026 gas sampling activity as part of the ongoing project monitoring and research activities.

On May 19, 2026, the Verde Carbon Capture Inc. (VCCI) team from its headquarters in Japan paid a courtesy call to the President of Visayas State University (VSU), Dr. Prose Ivy G. Yepes.

The VCCI delegation was composed of Ms. Joanna Marie Ang - System Developmet Analyst, Ms. Ruiya Li - Business Development Analyst and Ms. Sherrene Chua - Operation Analyst, together with Mr. Vic Anthony Lapore - Assistant Manager for Business Development of VCCI Philippines, and the Leyte–Bohol Area Manager, Ms. Rochell Godoy and Leyte Coordinator, Mr. June Pierce Oracion. They were joined by the VSU-Verde Carbon Project team led by Dr. Deejay M. Lumanao, with Study Leaders Dr. Dionesio Bañoc (VSU-Agronomy) and Ms. Lilibeth Manla (BISU-Bilar Campus). Also present was Dr. Jade Compedio, Director of the International Affairs Office of VSU.

The visit of the VCCI headquarters team was primarily conducted to train collaborators on the use of the Agreen App, a key digital tool under the project designed to support data collection, monitoring, and implementation of activities related to climate-smart rice farming. The engagement forms part of the ongoing Verde Carbon Capture project led by VSU, which aims to reduce methane emissions in rice ecosystems through the implementation and promotion of the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) irrigation technique. The initiative supports climate change mitigation efforts while also promoting more efficient and sustainable rice farming practices.

During the courtesy call, Dr. Yepes welcomed the delegation and highlighted VSU’s strong commitment to agricultural innovation, research, and environmental sustainability. The VCCI representatives expressed appreciation for the university’s support and shared their intent to strengthen collaboration in research, field implementation, and capacity-building activities related to climate-smart agriculture.

The visit concluded on a positive and forward-looking note, reinforcing the growing partnership between Verde Carbon Capture Inc. and Visayas State University in advancing sustainable solutions for agricultural and environmental challenges.

On February 12, 2026, Visayas State University in partnership with Verde Carbon Capture Inc. successfully conducted a training on Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD), Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), and Sustainable Rice Production Management in Ubay and San Miguel, Bohol.

The activity aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of rice farmers on climate-smart and sustainable rice farming technologies that improve productivity while reducing environmental impact. The training focused on the proper implementation of AWD water management practices, proper water monitoring, proper gas sampling, efficient nutrient application through INM, and sustainable approaches to rice production management.

Participants of the training were rice farmers from the municipalities of San Miguel and Ubay. The attendees represented different Irrigators Associations in the area and actively participated in discussions and field demonstration activities. Representatives from the Municipal Agriculture Office of Ubay led by the OIC Municipal Agriculturist, Ms. Glaiza Sanchez and from NIA, Engr. Rhea Mae Bulala also participated in the activity, showing their support for sustainable and climate-resilient rice production initiatives in the municipality.

The training was led by the Visayas State University team headed by Project Leader Dr. Deejay Maranguit-Lumanao together with the study leaders Dr. Suzette B. Lina, Dr. Dionesio Bañoc, and Prof. Ed Allan Alcober. They were joined by the Bohol VCCI Coordinator, Mr. Carl John Managa, who assisted in coordinating the activity and facilitating the participation of local farmer groups.

The training also emphasized the role of rice farming in methane production and its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. The resource persons explained that methane emissions from continuously flooded rice fields can be minimized through the adoption of AWD technology. Farmers were taught how AWD allows periodic drying of rice fields, reducing methane generation while maintaining rice productivity and conserving irrigation water.

The collaboration between Visayas State University and Verde Carbon Capture Inc. reflects their continued commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture and empowering local farming communities in Bohol.


The AWD rice production project contributes to SDGs 2, 6, 12, 13, and 15 by promoting sustainable agriculture, water conservation, climate action, and responsible resource management.

The Farmer’s Training on Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD), Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), and Sustainable Rice Farming Practices was successfully conducted last May 12, 2026 at the Visayas State University under the Verde Carbon Project, bringing together key agricultural stakeholders committed to promoting climate-resilient and cost-effective rice production in Leyte. The activity was attended by municipal and city agriculturists, agricultural technologists, and rice farmers from the seven municipalities of Leyte-leyte, Kananga, Matag-ob, Abuyog, Javier, Hindang and Hilongos as well as from the cities of Baybay and Ormoc. The training served as an avenue for strengthening partnerships among local government units, agricultural extension workers, and farming communities in support of sustainable agricultural development.

The activity was spearheaded by the team from Visayas State University led by the project leader, Dr. Deejay M. Lumanao, together with the study leaders Dr. Suzette B. Lina, Dr. Dionesio Bañoc, and Prof. Ed Allan Alcober. The training was conducted in collaboration with Verde Carbon Capture Inc. through the support of Ms. Rochelle Godoy and Mr. June Pierce Oracion, whose efforts and coordination contributed significantly to the successful implementation of the activity.

The training aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge and technical capacity on AWD technology, Integrated Nutrient Management, and other sustainable rice farming practices designed to improve productivity, reduce production costs, and promote environmental sustainability. A major objective of the activity was to encourage farming practices that help reduce methane gas production within the rice ecosystem, thereby contributing to climate change mitigation and the development of more climate-resilient agricultural systems.

During the sessions on Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD), participants gained a deeper understanding of water-saving techniques that optimize irrigation use without compromising crop yield. Discussions emphasized that proper water management through AWD not only reduces water consumption and irrigation expenses but also minimizes methane emissions commonly produced in continuously flooded rice fields. Participants were likewise trained on proper water monitoring techniques and gas sampling procedures to ensure accurate field data collection and monitoring of methane emissions in rice production areas. The hands-on discussions and demonstrations provided participants with practical knowledge on the implementation of AWD protocols, monitoring of water levels, and proper handling of gas sampling equipment used in methane flux assessment.

In addition, the research team presented and shared the results of the Wet Season 2025 field studies, including findings on rice yield performance, AWD cycles, and methane flux emissions. The presentation of study results provided participants with valuable insights into the effectiveness of AWD and sustainable rice farming practices in improving productivity while reducing greenhouse gas emissions within rice ecosystems.

The Integrated Nutrient Management sessions further underscored the importance of balanced fertilization and efficient nutrient use to maintain soil fertility and improve crop health. Participants were introduced to strategies that integrate organic and inorganic nutrient sources to support sustainable soil management and long-term agricultural productivity. The activity also provided an opportunity for participants to exchange experiences, share best practices, and discuss common challenges encountered in rice farming within their respective localities. The active participation and engagement of farmers, agriculturists, and agricultural technologists reflected their strong commitment to adopting innovative and sustainable farming approaches.

Through this initiative, the Verde Carbon Project continues to strengthen collaborative efforts among academic institutions, local government units, agricultural practitioners, and farming communities in advancing sustainable rice production systems in Leyte. The training reaffirmed the importance of partnership, capacity-building, and knowledge-sharing in empowering stakeholders toward a more productive, environmentally sustainable, and cost-effective rice industry.


The AWD rice production project contributes to SDGs 2, 6, 12, 13, and 15 by promoting sustainable agriculture, water conservation, climate action, and responsible resource management.