VSU students engage in research communication on animal disease management, health risks
Visayas State University (VSU) students were introduced to research-based policy insights and engaged in science communication activities that highlighted their role in promoting responsible animal, agricultural, and environmental practices in their communities.
Through their participation in the “May Magandang Bukas Mula sa Pagtuklas” (MMBMP) Season 5, Episode 1, students were informed about research findings on African Swine Fever (ASF), poultry-related zoonotic diseases, and environmental health risks. Discussions emphasized how these issues affect community health, agricultural systems, and environmental sustainability in Eastern Visayas. The activity was held at the VSU–Baybay Campus on May 12, 2026.
Students from various VSU programs participated, including Agricultural Economics, Animal Science, Agronomy, Food Technology, Development Communication, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Agribusiness and Economics.
Resource persons included researchers from NRCP, alongside representatives from the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office VIII (DA RFO8), Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region VIII (DENR VIII), Department of Science and Technology-Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST-PSTO)-Leyte, Regional Research, Development and Innovation Committee VIII (RRDIC-VIII), Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC), and private sector Casa Cornelio Farmtech.
Through direct engagement with researchers and stakeholders, students were informed about how research informs decision-making and community practices.
Livestock health, food security, and disease management
Discussions on ASF highlighted its continuing impact on swine production systems in Eastern Visayas, particularly among small-scale farmers. Swine-related livelihoods are vulnerable to livestock losses, movement restrictions, and outbreak containment measures.
Research presented by Dr. Harvie P. Portugaliza, regular member of NRCP Division of Veterinary Medicine, on ASF seroprevalence and risk factors in Leyte Island pointed out the need for stronger biosecurity systems, improved disease surveillance, and sustained community education to reduce transmission risks and protect both producers and consumers.
Stakeholders emphasized that effective ASF management requires coordinated action across institutions, particularly in strengthening veterinary response systems and ensuring timely reporting and response mechanisms.
The DA RFO8 representative shared their ongoing efforts through information campaigns, including the Local Animal Disease Diagnostic Emergency Response (LADDER), community caravans, and the development of the Animal Disease Incident Report (ADIR) mobile application in partnership with the Bureau of Animal Industry. These activities, where the youth may participate, aim to enhance response efficiency and promote the welfare of farmers.
Environmental health risks and agricultural waste management
Environmental concerns linked to poultry production were also discussed, particularly the accumulation of heavy metals from poultry waste in soil and water systems.
Dr. Lotis M. Balala, regular member of NRCP Division of Veterinary Medicine, presented findings on the environmental impact and carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks associated with exposure to contaminated agricultural environments. The study noted that untreated poultry waste and feed-related trace elements may contribute to heavy metal accumulation, especially during production cycles.
Findings associated prolonged exposure to these contaminants with potential health risks, including gastrointestinal illness, liver damage, neurological effects, and other chronic conditions.
The discussion iterated the need for stricter enforcement of existing environmental regulations, improved waste management systems in farms, and expanded community awareness campaigns that promote sustainable agricultural practices to reduce environmental and health risks.
Poultry zoonoses and community health practices
Research on poultry zoonoses focused on community practices and risk prevention was also tackled.
Dr. Ana Marquiza M. Quilicot, regular member of NRCP Division of Veterinary Medicine, presented findings on stakeholder knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to zoonotic diseases in Leyte and Southern Leyte. She emphasized the importance of proper handling of poultry and awareness of disease transmission risks.
Discussions focused on practical prevention measures and the role of community education in reducing zoonotic risks, particularly among poultry handlers and small-scale producers.
Stakeholders also shared ongoing information and education campaigns and related activities that support local compliance with waste management and disease prevention practices.
Additionally, Dr. Lucia P. Dauz of EVHRDC emphasized the role of health research in supporting programs and interventions in the region. She noted ongoing support for studies such as antibiotic residue analysis in pork and poultry products sold in local markets, with implications for food safety and public health.
MMBMP is a science communication program under DOST-NRCP’s Research Information Translation and Communication (RITAC) Program. It adopts an interactive talk-show format that translates research findings into accessible discussions, connecting students with researchers, government agencies, and industry stakeholders to promote dialogue on science-based interventions to development challenges.
NRCP, through its science communication activities like MMBMP, continues to promote research communication as a tool for learning, awareness-building, and encouraging informed participation among youth and communities in support of sustainable local development.
A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between NRCP and VSU on the same day. The agreement indicated the latter’s role to promote science communication to further connect Visayas communities to relevant, applicable research results. (Rose D. Dagupen // S&T Services)
