A research study titled “Enhancing Garlic Productivity Through Planting Density and Nutrient Management Optimization,” of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), has been recognized as one of the top three finalists for the coveted Best Research Paper Award at the 2025 National Symposium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (NSAARRD) held in Los Banos, Laguna on October 15.

Led by Dr. Dionisio S. Bucao, Director of the MMSU Research Directorate, the study focuses on boosting garlic productivity through science-based interventions in planting density and nutrient management. It aims to address the longstanding challenge of low yield in local garlic production by introducing optimized, research-backed farming techniques.

NSAARRD is the country’s premier recognition program for outstanding scientific contributions in agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources. Organized annually by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), the symposium brings together the most impactful research outputs from across the nation.

The MMSU study was shortlisted as one of three national finalists in the Research Category, joining other institutions’ notable studies: “Spore morphology, ex-situ conservation, and utilization of Mindanao indigenous pteridophytes” by Central Mindanao University, and “Etiology, detection, and management strategies against Pestalotiopsis disease of rubber” by the Philippine Rubber Research Institute.

Dr. Bucao presented the MMSU study during the national finalists’ presentation and evaluation held on October 14 at the DOST-PCAARRD headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna. The event was livestreamed on Facebook, allowing public and academic stakeholders to witness the showcase of cutting-edge research. In addition to oral presentations, poster evaluations accounted for 10% of the overall score.

The MMSU entry advanced to the national level after winning first place in the Best Research Paper category at the Regional Symposium on R&D Highlights last year. It served as the official entry of the Ilocos Agriculture and Aquatic Resources Research and Development Consortium (ILAARRDEC) to NSAARRD.

NSAARRD features two categories: research and development papers, with finalists selected from the submissions endorsed by regional consortia under the National Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Network (NAARRDN).

Winners of the 2025 NSAARRD will be formally announced during the S&T Recognition and Awarding Ceremony on November 10, 2025, in celebration of PCAARRD’s Foundation Anniversary.

The recognition of MMSU’s study reflects the university’s commitment to promoting agricultural science and emphasizes the critical role of research in improving the productivity and sustainability of the agriculture sector in the Philippines.

MMSU Research Directorate