The University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office III to ensure the supply and delivery of 10,000 packs of Bio N in Region III.

Bio N is a microbial-based fertilizer developed by Dr. Mercedes Umali-Garcia of UPLB-National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (BIOTECH) over 40 years ago.

The said fertilizer has been helping rice, corn, and vegetable farmers by improving the plant’s root system, boosting nutrient absorption, and strengthening resistance to pests and diseases while maintaining soil health.

UPLB-BIOTECH also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) entitled “Continuing Biotechnology Inputs to Support the Intensified National Food Production Programs” with DA to ensure a continuous collaboration with research and development of biofertilizers.

This partnership will help alleviate the country’s shortage in fertilizers caused by the global increase in oil prices. (Luisa Cabato)