PSABE Region 8 Gears Up for Food Security: A Recap of the Regional Convention

The Philippine Society of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineers (PSABE) Region 8 wrapped up a successful Regional Convention on March 23-24, 2024, at Madison Park Hotel. Held under the theme “ABEs as Active Players in Engineering Innovation for Food Security,” the convention brought together more than one hundred agricultural and biosystems engineers (ABEs) from across Eastern Visayas to explore solutions to address the critical issue of food security.

The program offered a diverse range of sessions designed to equip ABEs with the knowledge and tools needed to tackle current agricultural challenges. Plenary sessions covered crucial topics like the state of the ABE profession and licensure, the role of ABEs in government agencies, and the evolving curriculum of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering in Visayas State University which will equip future ABEs and the integration of innovation into agricultural practice.

Spearheaded by the bayaws from the Regional Agricultural Engineering Division of the Department of Agriculture Regional Office 8, breakout sessions into the four areas of agricultural and biosystems engineering delved deeper into specific areas namely: Agricultural Machinery and Equipment, Farm to Market Road (FMR), other agricultural infrastructure advancements, and water management strategies for irrigation.

Beyond technical knowledge sharing, the convention fostered a collaborative spirit. Open forums allowed participants to discuss challenges and opportunities for ABEs in achieving regional food security. The fellowship night provided a relaxed and fun setting for networking and building connections across different sectors. The convention also provided a platform for ABEs to showcase their research through technical paper and poster presentations.

The PSABE Region 8 Regional Convention energized ABEs to tackle the challenges of food security in Eastern Visayas. Armed with the latest advancements, a collaborative spirit, and a focus on innovation, Bayaws sa Rehiyon Otso are poised to make significant contributions to a more secure and sustainable food future for the region. We look forward to seeing the impact of their efforts in the years to come.