SU Aggies faculty and students present low-carbon research in Vietnam
Silliman University strengthened its regional presence in agricultural research as faculty and students from the College of Agriculture presented innovative, climate-smart studies at the International Society for Southeast Asian Agricultural Sciences (ISSAAS) 2025 Conference held at the Vietnam National University of Agriculture in Hanoi, Vietnam, on November 6–8, 2025.
With the theme “Development of Agriculture with Low Carbon Emission in Asia,” the conference brought together researchers from across the region to discuss emerging approaches in crop science, smart agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
Asst. Prof. Arsenio D. Bulfa Jr. presented his study “Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Emission Reduction Using Corncob Biochar,” which demonstrated the potential of biochar as a mitigation strategy for agricultural emissions. Meanwhile, Asst. Prof. Rehel A. Diaz, with co-author Ma. Junella C. Arista, presented “Comparative Analysis of Remote Sensing and In-Situ Climatic Observations for Agriculture Applications,” emphasizing how satellite and ground-based data together enhance climate-informed agricultural planning.
Agriculture students also showcased their research through an oral presentation led by Cherk Andrew P. Ignacio with co-authors Ryunosuke Tsuru, John Maynard A. Villanueva, Prinz Hector A. Golosino, and Uzeil Antonio de Jesus. Their study, “Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Emission from Seaweed Applied in Sandy Soil as Soil Conditioner,” explored the use of seaweed-based amendments to reduce emissions and improve soil health in coastal environments.
In the poster category, Jack C. Silva, Emilio B. Jacinto II, and John Glen Amistoso presented their findings on how ultrasonic treatment improves seed germination and early growth performance in calamansi, dragon fruit, and papaya. Another student team—Levi Jay V. Inoferio, JC John Inao, Bianca Theresse R. Valerio, Bea Windyref F. Domen, and Jose Ryan O. Bocol Jr.—featured their study on “Aloe Vera Gel Biocoating for Shelf-life Extension and Quality Maintenance of Cucumber and Tomato,” which demonstrated the promise of eco-friendly biocoatings in prolonging the freshness of perishable crops.
The conference included plenary talks, individual presentation sessions, and a congress tour, providing participants opportunities for learning, networking, and cultural exchange.
Silliman’s strong representation underscored its commitment to advancing sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural research in Southeast Asia.
