The Integrated Pest Management for Rodents and Golden Kuhol Infestation Training concluded on a successful note, featuring resource speaker and guest entomologist Dr. Ravindra C. Joshi, who trained attendees in addressing pest infestation.
Farmers from local farmer associations, Central Philippines State University’s (CPSU) Bachelor of Science in Agriculture students, graduate school students, and faculty members attended the four-day Integrated Pest Management training, which was divided into three sessions scheduled for May 21, 22, 23, and 24, 2025.
The training was focused on educating and training participants, especially the grassroots farmers, in integrating chemical-free yet effective methods to sustainably control and eliminate infestations of these invasive species, providing long-term and cost-effective solutions.
Dr. Joshi solicited information about the existing infestation mitigation practices implemented by local farmers in their respective agricultural areas; he then gave a lecture on the origin and the introduction of rodents and golden kuhol to Philippine farmlands.
In addition, the resource speaker also provided comprehensive yet grassroots-friendly methods and approaches to address the infestation problems at different planting stages, including pre-planting to post-harvesting.
The participants also engaged in an interactive observation consolidation where they discussed their personal field observations through the rice paddies in small groups, sharing their perceived infestation effects on crops.
With the active support of the University President, Dr. Aladino C. Moraca, the initiative was spearheaded by the Research and Development Services headed by Director Angelie Rose Lumba, Ph.D, with the Extension and Community Services (ECS) Office headed by Director Dr. Jimmy O. Degillo, Ph.D., and the CPSU Graduate School headed by Dean Riza Stephanie A. Alfaras, Ph.D.
Dr. Joshi, who has served and helped farming communities in and outside the Philippines, previously shared his entomological expertise during the Integrated Pest Management for Fall Armyworms training held from December 3 until December 5, 2024, at CPSU Main Campus.
The Integrated Pest Management trainings facilitated by the university are a testament to CPSU’s commitment to contribute to the attainment of United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including #12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), #15 (Life on Land), and #2 (Zero Hunger).
Photo Credits: Office of Research and Development Services
