SEARCA inspires future agriculturists from across the Philippines

LOS BAÑOS, Philippines—A group of 70 aspiring agriculturists from across the Philippines visited the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) on August 28, 2025, to gain insights into the latest agricultural initiatives. The students, who are preparing for the Licensure Examination for Agriculturists through the Upstep Review Center, represented various universities from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

SEARCA Deputy Director for Administration, Assoc. Prof. Joselito Florendo, welcomed the group, underscoring the vital role of agriculturists in the Philippines. He emphasized that the licensure exam is not just a requirement, but also an opportunity to master the latest agricultural science and technology.

The students learned about SEARCA’s mission and programs from Mr. Joseph Matthew Hedreyda, Senior Associate for Partnerships and Advocacy.

The visit included an interactive tour of the SEARCA Hub for Agriculture and Rural Innovation for the Next Generation (SHARING) AgriMuseum, a facility that merges agriculture with art, science, and technology. The group also explored the SEARCA Sky Garden, a rooftop edible garden.

To conclude their visit, the students watched a special screening of the SEARCA Youth in Agri Talk Show, a non-traditional educational series designed to engage young people. The episode focused on the transformative role of gardening in youth development.

As a center of excellence, SEARCA aims to inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders who will address the complex challenges facing the sector and contribute to food security and rural development in the Philippines and beyond.