NVSU’s 5-Hectare Mulberry Plantation Set to Boost Sericulture Industry in Nueva Vizcaya

The Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU), through its Sericulture Program, is taking a significant step in strengthening the local silk industry with the establishment of a five-hectare mulberry plantation located in Tuao, Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya.

This initiative is a vital requirement for the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) in setting up a Philature facility, where silk cocoons are processed to extract high-quality silk fibers.

Guided by Dr. Jayson Q. Caranza, Dean of the College of Forestry, Environment, and Resources Management (CFERM), the site for the plantation has been carefully identified to ensure optimal growth conditions for the mulberry trees.

Mulberry leaves serve as the primary food source for silkworms, making this plantation a crucial component in sustainable sericulture development.

Meanwhile, with the assistance of Dr. William D. Magday, Dean of the College of Teacher Education (CTED), the planting of mulberry seedlings is scheduled to commence this May.

Dr. Regino L. Galate, NVSU Sericulture Program Coordinator, is also coordinating this forthcoming activity with Dr. Lori Shayne A. Busa, Director for Research and Development, to ensure its successful implementation.

Moreover, University President Dr. Wilfredo A. Dumale Jr., expressed his support during the previous meeting with the Organization for Industrial, Spiritual and Cultural Advancement (OISCA) personnel from Japan, namely Mr. Yukihiro Ishibashii, OISCA Resident Representative and Mr. Tatsuo Mandai, OISCA Training Director in Japan.

The five-hectare mulberry plantation not only fulfills a key requirement for the Philature facility but also serves as a foundation for expanding sericulture-related research, training, and livelihood opportunities for local farmers and entrepreneurs. With continued support from academic leaders and government agencies, this project is poised to significantly impact on the silk industry in Nueva Vizcaya and beyond.