CAMILING, Tarlac (Dec. 23, 2025) — In celebration of its 80th Founding Anniversary, Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) partnered with the Philippine Seed Industry Association (PSIA) to host a Vegetable Derby and Harvest Festival on December 18, 2025. The event aimed to promote smart agriculture by introducing high-yield crop varieties and providing technical expertise directly to local farmers and students.
PSIA Administrative Assistant Hazel Joy Cariaga highlighted the initiative’s dual purpose: “The derby showcased high-technology seeds specifically designed to help increase production and farmer income.” She added that the partnership also served as a vital educational platform for TAU students, preparing them for the evolving demands of the agriculture industry.
During the convocation program, Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Ruminant Livestock Benjamin Albarece praised the university’s forward-thinking approach. “This year’s celebration, with its spotlight on smart agriculture, reflects the university’s commitment to embracing innovation, technological advancement, and sustainable practices in farming,” he stated.
The Vegetable Derby featured a diverse array of crops cultivated by participating seed companies, including squash, string beans, bitter gourd, chili, and eggplant in open fields. Inside TAU’s greenhouse facilities, visitors observed premium crops such as honeydew, cantaloupe, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.
TAU Sustainable Mechanized Agriculture for Research and Technology Agriculture Center Manager Amy Lizbeth Rico explained that the program sought to bridge the gap between farmers and seed companies. “Through the event, farmers gained access to expert technicians from each company who provided technical guidance and consultation,” she emphasized.
The initiative culminated in a lively Harvest Festival, where the public was invited to pick and purchase fresh produce directly from the trial plots. The festival also featured food stalls and merchandise booths in front of the TAU Multipurpose Center, showcasing agricultural products, technologies, and services from various organizations.
As part of the anniversary celebration, TAU opened its SMART Agriculture Center to visitors, offering demonstrations on precision farming tools, data-based decision systems, and climate-smart production techniques. The center’s opening underscored the university’s role in advancing sustainable and technology-driven farming solutions.
Tarlac Governor Christian Yap was also in attendance and expressed his support: “Lubos po nating ikinagagalak ang pagdalo sa Harvest Festival 2025 at Vegetable Derby ng Tarlac Agricultural University, isang makabuluhang pagtitipon na nagbibigay-pugay sa sipag, talino, at inobasyon ng ating mga magsasaka, estudyante, at katuwang sa sektor ng agrikultura.” He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting programs that enhance local production, promote modern farming technology, and improve livelihoods in Tarlac.
The event was widely promoted with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to health, education, sustainable communities, and partnerships.
The Harvest Festival site remained open to the community while fresh produce supplies lasted, allowing visitors to experience firsthand the results of innovative agricultural practices and the promise of a more sustainable future for Philippine farming.
