One hundred four farmers in Negros Occidental recently completed the 100-day training organized by the SM Foundation Inc. with Harbest Agribusiness Corp., Negros Economic Development Foundation, and the Department of Agriculture.

The farmer-beneficiaries received their diplomas in rites held at the Northwing Event Centre of SM City Bacolod that was highlighted by a Harvest Festival featuring the farmers’ produce from the NEDF Techno Farm, an exhibit of the organizers’ programs and a buyer’s forum.

The Kabalikat Sa Kabuhayan Farmers Training Program, now on its second year, was started last year with 100 farmers-beneficiaries from towns and cities of Negros Occidental.

SMART cellsites using
wind, solar power

Smart Communications Inc. is using wind and solar energy in operating its cellsites in remote areas, including one in Punta Bulata in Cauayan, Negros Occidental, a press release from the company said.

At present, it is using hybrid wind and solar power in 11 cellsites situated in Tanudan in Kalinga; Ba-ay-Licuan and Luba in Abra; Cagayancillo and Busuanga in Palawan; San Isidro, Hinabangan and UET Catarman in Samar; Boracay in Aklan; Sarangani in Davao del Sur; and in Cauayan,Negros Occidental.

Jun Costes, senior manager of Network Services Division, said that for 2008, the company is aiming to deploy another 34 eco-friendly cellsites, 19 of which will be wind-powered and 15, hybrid solar- and wind-powered.

Safety drive for coco-based
food products launched: PCA

The Philippine Coconut Authority recently launched a food safety campaign to complement government efforts to strengthen food safety control systems of coconut products in compliance with new and more effective international standards.

The campaign seeks to reduce levels of aflatoxin and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, known to cause cancer, in copra and in crude coconut oil, respectively.

PCA, lead agency in the campaign, said the multi-sectoral effort brings together coconut farmers, millers, traders, officials from the government agencies and from the European Commission.

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