As part of the 30th Kalinga Founding Anniversary and the 6th Bodong Festival, the KaSiyensya Kordilyera Provincial Caravan featured a visit by Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. and his team to the Mulberry Farm and Silk Innovation Center at Kalinga State University -Rizal Campus, the first and only facility in CAR equipped for silkworm rearing and raw silk production. This visit, which was conducted on February, 2025, underscored the government’s commitment to fostering innovation, economic growth, and sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
During his visit, Secretary Solidum provided insights on optimizing land use while maintaining sustainable mulberry production. He emphasized the importance of a circular economy, encouraging the university to explore additional profitable ventures, such as intercropping fruit-bearing trees within the mulberry plantation. He also highlighted the integration of science and business as a means to generate employment and enhance income opportunities. In line with his discussions with other State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) presidents, he inquired about KSU’s contributions to national economic development. He recommended that the university’s extension programs should not only focus on knowledge dissemination but also promote commercialization to create tangible economic benefits.
Dr. Robert A. Rodolfo, Dean of the College of Forestry and one of the key proponents of the sericulture project, elaborated on the environmental advantages of mulberry cultivation. He noted that mulberry plants contribute to nitrogen enrichment, moisture retention, and erosion control, making them highly beneficial for sustainable agriculture.
Secretary Solidum also advised the university leadership to develop a comprehensive roadmap to enhance silk production in the province. Mulberry leaves serve as the primary food source for silkworms, which produce cocoons that are eventually transformed into silkβone of the most valuable raw materials in the textile industry.
The sericulture initiative at KSU was launched through the project titled “Championing the Sericulture Industry through KSUβs Capacity Building and Research Development.” The project is spearheaded by prominent experts, including Dr. Eduardo T. Bagtang, Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor, Dr. Robert A. Rodolfo, Dr. Rhonjhon Garming, Dr. Bernadette Aggabao, Dr. Loneza Carbonel, Forester Victorino Bayed, Ms. Elsie Andres, Mr. Christopher Agustin, Mr. Wilfred Equila, and Mr. Jowel Mauricio.
Sericulture, the art of silk production, involves mulberry cultivation, silkworm rearing, and post-cocoon processing to produce silk yarn. The industry holds significant potential for generating employment, fostering economic growth, and improving the quality of life in Kalinga Province. Moreover, it aligns with anti-poverty initiatives by providing livelihood opportunities and reducing rural-to-urban migration.
To further enhance silk production capabilities, KSU took proactive steps in capacity building. In NovemberβDecember 2022, former KSU President Dr. Eduardo T. Bagtang facilitated the training of Mr. Jowel Mauricio in India, equipping him with advanced knowledge in sericulture. This initiative underscores KSUβs commitment to elevating the provinceβs silk industry through research, innovation, and sustainable agricultural practices.
