The National Apiculture Research, Training, and Development Institute celebrated its 20th Founding Anniversary on October 5-6, 2021 anchored in the theme, “Transforming Beekeeping Initiatives: NARTDI’s Commitment in Sustaining Excellence for Better Partnerships in Community Development.” The opening and closing programs were streamed live via Facebook.
Right at his back is NARDTI’s Executive Director, Dr. Gregory B. Viste. (Photo | VLBersamin)
The program kicked off in an opening prayer led by Mr. Merlito D. Tangalin immediately followed by the singing of the national anthem, recitation of DMMMSU PVMG, quality policy statement, quality objectives, core values, and NARTDI VMGO
In his opening and welcome message, Mr. Joseph A. Panas, Division Chief for Research and Development, recognized the individuals behind the transformation of the Institute.
In his message, Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., DMMMSU President, said that the theme of this year’s founding anniversary spells out the vigorous desire and intent of the Institute in engaging the active participation of all concerned government agencies, non-government organizations, state universities and colleges, and other apiculture stakeholder institutions.
“As you herald a new decade of quality service with our stakeholders, sustain our drive to go forth and deliver to our constituents our lasting passion and commitment to serve,” Dr. Manuel said.
Furthermore, Dr. Gregory B. Viste, NARTDI Executive Director, reported the Institute’s highlight of accomplishment along with research, extension, planning, and administrative services. He extended his gratitude to the men and women of NARTDI, and to President Manuel for his support in the realization of this year’s accomplishment of the Institute.
Meanwhile, two beekeepers in La Union namely Mr. Rodel F. Esperon of Bacnotan and Mr. Jose Joel G. Barbero of Rosario shared their beekeeping stories in a recorded video presentation mentioning how NARTDI helped them on their beekeeping journey, the benefits they acquire in beekeeping, and the challenges they encountered, and their coping mechanisms.
The program showcased also the major and special awardees of the Institute celebrating their unwavering dedication, meritorious commitment, and commendable service that contributed to the growth of the Institute.
The following are this year’s major and special awardees:
MAJOR AWARDEES
Researcher of the Year
Mr. Merlito D. Tangalin
Extension Worker of the Year
Prof. Carolyn A. Akilith
Office Worker of the Year
Mr. Rizalde A. Claro
SPECIAL AWARDEES
Past Administrator
Mr. DAVID T. DE CASTRO
Division Chief, Research and Development (August 1, 2018-June 13, 2021)
Institutional Research Collaborators
Benguet State University
Quirino State University
Mountain Province State Polytechnic College-Tadian Campus
Individual Research Collaborators
Mr. Adriano E. Necesito
Dr. Kenneth A. Laruan
Mr. Patrick L. Bete
Mr. Rodel F. Esperon
Mrs. Shirley O. Lopez
Prof. Amory A. Umayat
Ptr. Jonas C. Dela Cruz
Dr. Rommel G. Peralta
On October 6, a cooking show, amazing race, and quiz bee for NARTDI personnel were conducted. What’s more, the closing program in the afternoon highlighted the awarding of winners in the poster making and dessert cooking contests.
Below are the winners:
Poster Making Contest (Elementary Category)
| 1st Place | Aaron Jhonrick P. Facinal Bacnotan Central School |
| 2nd Place | Kristelle Jane T. Jalop Zaragoza Elementary School |
| 3rd Place | Princess Lheewins A. Nebres Oya-oy Elementary School |
Poster Making Contest (High School Category)
| 1st Place | Fritz Allan R. Licudan Bitalag Integrated School |
| 2nd Place | Jerwin Dave G. Almojuela Stella Maris Academy |
| 3rd Place | Jenelle P. Fabros Lord of Zion Divine School |
Dessert Cooking Contest Using Honey
| 1st Place | John Lord P. Cajala San Fernado City, La Union |
| 2nd Place | Daphne Juza K. Tarnate San Gabriel, La Union |
| 3rd Place | Marnellie V. Hufalar Bacnotan, La Union |
The poster making contest was participated in by 14 elementary and 5 high schools in Bacnotan, La Union while the dessert cooking contest using honey was participated in by four individuals from the First District of La Union. The contests were conducted in their respective houses and were video recorded on time-lapse.
Since most of the activities were conducted in a limited face-to-face, the Institute strictly enforced the health and safety protocols. (Lester E. Orpilla)