The National Apiculture Research Training and Development Institute (NARTDI) took swift action on June 19 after two colonies of giant honeybees (Apis dorsata) were found nesting at the South La Union Campus (SLUC).

Led by Extension Division Chief Arvin C. Tuyan, the NARTDI team responded to a safety concern raised by Rex D. Tangalin, SLUC Head for Auxiliary Services, following the discovery of the large, defensive bees, locally called “pukyutan” in Tagalog and “ayukan” or “uyukan” in Ilocano. One colony was located inside the Elementary Laboratory School compound, the other near the Friendship House.

Recognizing the serious threat these large, highly defensive giant honeybees pose, particularly to young children, students, faculty, and staff, the NARTDI team quickly conducted a detailed site assessment. They implemented carefully planned technical measures to minimize the risk of stings and attacks. Throughout the process, the team prioritized campus safety while ensuring interventions respected ecological balance and protected the bees’ vital role in biodiversity.

This response emphasizes NARTDI’s role in delivering responsive technical assistance to the community, particularly in addressing challenges related to human and wildlife interactions involving this beneficial yet potentially dangerous bee species. (By Devon C. Sotelo & Jasmin O. Agdipa)