CBSUA visits Calabanga to promote meliponiculture thru the Regional Apiculture Center. Described as the flagship program of the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, the technique for stingless bees has been sought after by numerous individuals and groups, particularly in the province of Camarines Sur.
As a result, the number of private and public adaptors has gradually increased. Among them is the Guimbaolibot family of Sitio Tawang, Fabrica, Calabanga, Camarines Sur, which owns the Badlis Farm. Ms. Rio and Mr. Jerome Guimbaolibot intended to participate in this CBSUA effort as first-hand beekeepers and passionate supporters of the University’s online and on-air programs. They initiated their first activity by contacting the Extension Services Division and asking for training on the aforementioned technology.
Thus, on July 20, 2021, local farmers and enthusiasts gathered for a holiday to learn about Meliponiculture, in particular its significance in livelihood expansion. First, director Lilia C. Pasiona addressed the benefits of beekeeping through direct use of bee commodities and by-products and indirect usage through pollination, which has been shown to considerably enhance production by thirty-five percent (35%). Additionally, participants were instructed on suitable cultural management methods and product creation principles for propolis tincture, soap, and throat spray.
Finally, the group was presented with honey, pollen, and honey-infused fruit jam samples for tasting. Following the talk, Director Pasiona and Sir Guimbaolibot showed the splitting technique used to separate a supercolony from its mother colony. The presenters concluded the session on a hopeful note, inviting guests to practice integrated bee farming.