NVSU connects with PCA for a P5M proposal on Makapuno embryo culture

Strengthening the growing partnership between Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Ms. Maria Buena A. Ubaldo traveled from Bicol to the NVSU Bayombong Campus on July 1–2, 2026, to advance collaborative initiatives on Makapuno development.

Ms. Ubaldo's visit focused on three key objectives: discussing the recommendations on NVSU's proposed ₱5-million Makapuno Embryo Culture as a Planting Materials Support System for Cagayan Valley project, assessing the University's tissue culture laboratory, nursery, and farm facilities, and inspecting the proposed site for the establishment of a Makapuno techno-showcase farm.

 She is a Technical Staff of the Biotechnology Division of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)-Albay Research Center under the Division Chief, Dr. Maria Elizabeth B. Naredo. She previously reviewed the NVSU proposal and shared guidance and critical inputs specifically on the acquisition of Makapuno nuts and zygotic embryos from accredited sources and on details about the five-year plan for Makapuno embryo culture. Ms. Ubaldo was accompanied by Pamela Cahucom, a staff of the PCA-Research and Development Branch (RDB).

 The proposed project is an initiative of the NVSU president who personally connected with PCA for a slot where a project on Makapuno embryo culture can be submitted for evaluation by the PCA.

 The establishment of a Makapuno propagation and nursery system in NVSU, will strengthen the Makapuno value chain with reliable supply of quality true-to-type seedlings which will ensure a 75-100% Makapuno yield, technical support on GAP for nursery and farm management, and facilitate research and development opportunities and partnerships.

 The proposed project will also highlight the capacity and expertise of NVSU in tissue culture and nursery management and will serve as a vital support system for sustainable production and technical resources for Makapuno in Cagayan Valley.