After three successful community trainings across Central Visayas, the Biodiversity, Environment, and Natural Resources Research Center (BENRC) of Cebu Technological University–Argao Campus expanded its flagship project, CTU RISE with Breadfruit: Research and Innovation for Sustainable Ecosystem with Breadfruit Solutions, to Barangay Lamacan, Argao, Cebu, on September 10 to 11, 2025.
The initiative introduced breadfruit-based innovations as a pathway to sustainable food security and livelihood opportunities. The two-day training brought members of women’s groups and farmers’ associations to explore breadfruit-based food innovations through hands-on demonstrations and product development activities.
Food Laboratory research assistants Marcelina S. Ricaborda and Jophel S. Segismar conducted the training and guided participants in developing value-added breadfruit products. Also present at the event were BENRC Center Director Hemres M. Alburo, Tissue Culture OIC-Director Jannu Geuseppe C. Clemeña, and Punong Barangay Kirsten Audrey F. Sarmago.
Breadfruit, known locally as kolo in the Visayas, is proving to be more than a traditional staple as BENRC continues to explore its potential as a sustainable, locally sourced alternative to conventional flour.
Since 2024, the outreach initiative has been conducted in key areas across Central Visayas, including Camotes Island, Alegria in Cebu, and Bantayan Island.
Initially launched as a research project, the initiative later expanded into a General Appropriations Act (GAA)-funded extension project to support local communities.
BENRC’s initiative reflects a strategic shift from concept to community impact, driving CTU’s push for global sustainability through breadfruit-based solutions that boost food security and support community livelihoods.
