Mariano Marcos
State University

PCC taps MMSU gene-editing experts

By Ian Paul Villanueva

Technical staff of the DA-Livestock Biotechnology Center (DA-LBC) of the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) underwent hands-on training on gene-editing techniques at the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) Center for Cellular and Molecular Medical Research (CMED) from June 16 to 18. 

The three-day workshop at the CMED was facilitated by Center Chief, Dr. Peter James Gann, alongside Dr. Don Carlo Batara. The activity strengthened the participants' theoretical knowledge in gene editing through practical laboratory exercises and demonstrations that they can apply in their research. 

The training commenced on the heels of a successful signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between PCC and MMSU on June 16, where the two institutions established a framework for collaborative research in livestock biotechnology and other related fields.

The MOU was signed by MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., and Dr. Liza Battad, PCC Executive Director. Signing as witnesses were Dr. Gann and Dr. Marvin Villanueva, Chief of the DA-LBC. Mr. Joel Cabading, OIC Center Director of the PCC at MMSU, was also in attendance.

While setting the stage for training workshops, lectures, symposia, technology exchanges, and academic cooperation between the two institutions, the partnership already bore fruit with the conduct of the three-day workshop.

During the MOU signing, Dr. Manzano thanked the PCC for the partnership opportunity and expressed enthusiasm for the collaborative activities that await the partnership of the two institutions. 

He also noted the university’s growing capabilities in animal biotechnology, which came with the establishment and continued operation of CMED, led by its chief, Dr. Gann.

PCC is an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture headquartered in the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, where it houses DA-LBC. It has 12 regional centers spread across the Philippines, among which is the PCC at MMSU located in the MMSU Batac Campus.