The Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) has garnered substantial support for its groundbreaking project, “Innovation and Commercialization of Organic Products from Boton (Baringtonia Asiatica).” The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region III has allocated a noteworthy sum of Php 2,644,316.00 under the 2023 DOST-III Regional Grants-In-Aid Program.

Expressing gratitude, the Project Proponent and Leader, Dr. Ma Luz F. Cabatan, stated, “Two externally funded projects this year, from DA RFO Region 3, 1.5 million, and this one. The output of the project will benefit rice and vegetable farmers for the biopesticide from Boton and farmers raising small ruminants (goat) for the anthelmintic product. In addition to rice and vegetables, DOST suggested to our team to target army worms considered pests in onion production. The team is preparing for tie up with identified onion producer in Aurora.”

A Memorandum of Agreement signing between DOST Regional Office III and ASCOT took place at the DOST office in San Fernando, Pampanga, on November 14, 2023. The ceremony witnessed the presence of DOST-III Regional Director Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat, ASCOT’s OIC President Ms. Lora L. Yusi, and ASCOT’s Project Leader Dr. Ma. Luz F. Cabatan.

This generous grant positions ASCOT to lead innovation in the organic product sector, particularly from the Boton plant. Beyond advancing research, it aims to propel these innovative organic products to commercial viability, paving the way for a greener and healthier future.
ASCOT’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and pioneering initiatives is underscored by this grant, reinforcing its dedication to making positive contributions to the community and the environment.