“Mabilis tumubong parang kabute” has been one of the many colorful phrases in Filipino slang language, referring to the fast growth of mushrooms.
In Laguna province, however, that phrase will soon be a sustainable reality, according to officials of the Laguna State Polytechnic University (LSPU).
Recently, officials of LSPU’s Siniloan Campus inked an agreement with officials of the Provincial Public Employment Service Office (PESO)-Laguna to provide sustainable livelihood to selected communities in the province, through mushroom-growing.
The program, dubbed “KA-PIYU Extension Program: KAbute para sa mas Produktibo, Inklusibo, Yumayaman at Urbanisadong komunidad,” aims to spread oyster mushroom production and processing technology to grassroots groups.
By bringing one growing house at a time into the hands of communities, the program aims to make mushroom farming accessible, practical, and income-generating.
Under the agreement, LPSU, through its Mushroom Research and Production Center (MRPC) and the Laguna PESO will deploy mushroom-growing houses to selected communities in the province.
Officials will also provide residents with skills through the “Ka-Piyu Mushroom Production and Processing Seminar and Training,” as well as develop local experts who can train others and build viable agri-enterprises.
Dr. Robert Agatep, LSPU Vice President for Research and Development, reiterated the university’s commitment to serving as a true “katuwang” to its surrounding communities.
He also encouraged farmers and citizens to bring forward ideas or challenges that LSPU’s researchers and experts might help address.
Mary Jane Banasihan-Corcuera, Manager of PESO-Laguna, asserted the commitment of the provincial government, through the PESO, to establish a robust and reciprocal partnership with institutions like LSPU.
She also expressed that the strong partnerships between LSPU and PESO have great potential to benefit everyone because they are focused on activities primarily in agriculture.
During the event, LSPU students also showcased their mushroom products during the formal signing event, such as takoyaki, polvoron, ice cream, and nuggets.
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