Recognizing the importance of regular monitoring in agricultural projects, Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), recently conducted field visits to evaluate the status of its Hybrid Off-Season Tomato Production Project in several municipalities, including Bacarra, Sarrat, Badoc, Burgos, Currimao, Vintar, and Pasuquin.

Held separately on September 26 and October 1-2, the monitoring aimed to assess crop conditions following recent typhoons and provide on-site technical support to help farmers sustain production during the wet season. The project, implemented in partnership with local government units, supports farmers through the distribution of fertilizers, fungicides, plastic mulch, and continuous expert guidance from MMSU.

Among the early successes of the project are the farms managed by Zanjera Pangil Irrigators Inc. in Bacarra and the Zanjera Nagcarsuan Farmers Association in Sarrat, which have already begun harvesting, demonstrating the adaptability of MMSU’s hybrid tomato varieties in challenging conditions.

Led by Dr. Menissa Antonio and a team of experts from MMSU’s Research and Extension Directorate, the monitoring team also distributed educational materials on crop management and pest control. The activity stresses the university’s pledge to ensure the success of off-season tomato farming by linking research, innovation, and hands-on support.

Last year, the resilience of off-season tomatoes was demonstrated through a technology trial at Pastor Wilmar Miguel’s farm in Brgy. Saricao, Vintar, where MMSU hybrid tomato varieties thrived despite the wet season and consecutive typhoons.

Through this project, MMSU continues to promote sustainable agriculture and food security for Ilocano farmers, even amid climate-related disruptions.

MMSU Extension Directorate