31/07/2026
QSU Advances Mushroom Research Through DA-ACEF-Funded Facility Upgrade
Diffun, Quirino β The University marked a major milestone in strengthening its research and extension services with the successful installation and testing of new laboratory and production equipment for its Mushroom Research, Development and Production Center (MRDPC). The activity forms part of the DA-ACEF-funded project, "Upgrading the Capacity of the Mushroom Research, Development and Production Center," which aims to enhance the University's capability in mushroom research, production, technology transfer, and commercialization.
The project was secured during the leadership of QSU President Hermenegildo F. Samoy, Jr., whose strong support for research and innovation made possible the establishment and upgrading of the University's mushroom research facility. Through the DA-ACEF grant, the University acquired modern laboratory and production equipment that will strengthen its research infrastructure and expand its services to farmers, students, researchers and other stakeholders.
The project is led by Dr. Dyanika P. Nolasco as Project Leader and Dr. Elizabeth T. Carig as Co-Project Leader. Together with the project implementation team, they oversaw the procurement, installation, and completion of the project's major components to ensure that the Center would be fully equipped to support its research, extension, and production activities.
On July 24, representatives from the equipment supplier, together with the project team, research staff, and personnel from the University's Supply and General Services Units, conducted the installation and operational testing of the newly procured equipment. The activity ensured that every unit was properly installed, carefully inspected, and verified to be in good working condition before being officially accepted for use.
The equipment installed and tested included three Medical Refrigerators, three Laminar Flow/Biosafety Cabinets, one Digital pH Meter, one Dissecting Microscope, one Pure Water System, and two Heavy-Duty Burner Gas Stoves. These facilities will improve laboratory operations by providing a clean and controlled environment for mushroom culture preparation, ensuring quality standards in research, and enhancing the Center's capability to produce high-quality mushroom spawn and other research outputs.
Following the completion of the project, the MRDPC, together with its newly acquired equipment, operational roadmap, and management responsibilities, was officially turned over on May 20, to Center Chief For. Jonalyn J. Quinan. The turnover marked the successful transition from project implementation to full operational management, which shall ensure that the Center will continue to pursue its long-term goals under dedicated leadership.
