Remaining a true advocate of community development and agricultural innovation, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) spotlighted the rice-based food industry and introduced its new Agribusiness Center initiative during the third episode of its radio-based extension service, WoW BiPSU Extension in Action, aired via Radyo Natin Naval on October 21.

In this pivotal episode, faculty experts from the School of Agribusiness and Forest Resource Management (SABFoRM) shared critical insights from their research and community engagement initiatives, detailing BiPSU's role in the weaving of worthiness for local farmers and entrepreneurs.

Mr. Jeruel A. Espinazo, Chairperson of the Department of Agribusiness Management (DABM), presented the key findings of a comprehensive study conducted in partnership with the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice). Titled “Mapping the Landscape of Rice-Based Food Products in Biliran Province: An In-depth Inventory and Profiling,” the research drew data from over 400 producers across Biliran—marking the first comprehensive mapping of its kind in the province.

Mr. Espinazo emphasized the urgent challenges facing the industry, noting that many traditional rice-based food producers are aging with few young people showing interest in continuing the craft. The decline, he warned, could lead to an estimated ₱37 million annual economic loss if the industry is not revitalized.

To safeguard this critical sector, he stressed the need to preserve traditional rice varieties, improve product packaging and marketing, and integrate rice-based production into educational programs to inspire younger generations.

Mr. Christian Ulysses G. Cagasan, extension chairperson of the DABM, announced the newly established Agribusiness Center, a timely collaboration between BiPSU–Biliran Campus and the Local Government Unit of Biliran.

The Center is designed to be a crucial training and resource hub for farmers, cooperatives, and local entrepreneurs, offering technical assistance, data-driven support, and value chain development.

“This initiative aims to transform research and education into real community impact,” Mr. Cagasan said, noting that the Center will directly drive agricultural productivity, technological innovation, and sustainable livelihoods.

Additionally, the radio show highlighted BiPSU’s AgriBio Laboratory, developed with support from DOST-PCAARRD, which produces Biological Control Agents (BCA) to help farmers manage pest infestations sustainably, reinforcing the university's commitment to ecological farming.

Also featured on the program were Mr. Glenn Gumba, Head of the university’s Extension Services Office (ESO) Knowledge of Information and Management Unit, and Mr. Lorenzo R. de la Cruz, Director of the University Media and Information Office (UMIO) and the radio host.

The episode concluded with a strong call for continued joint action among government agencies, educators, and citizens in preserving Biliran’s agricultural identity and ensuring the resilience of its agribusiness sector, demonstrating how BiPSU is solidly weaving progress for its locals and global sustainability.

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