BIO-N Facility Launched At BSU
14 January 2008 The bio-fertilizer microorganism, which fixes atmospheric nitrogen into its available form, was pioneered by Dr. Mercedes Garcia, Professor Emeritus of the University of the Philippines; BIO-N was first produced and introduced by Bio Tech Philippines, which now has 61 mixing plants throughout the country.
Garcia advised that BIO-N has been used in rice and corn production for 20 years, explaining that the Department of Agriculture adopted the technology after 25 years and allocated more than US $242,000 for advocacy programs. Garcia also advised that 57% of BIO-N bacteria have native characteristics marked BIO–N bacteria molecules by Bio Tech. BSU’s Laurean said that BIO-N causes a 70 % reduction of commercial nitrogen, based on experiences with corn and rice production. Although BIO–N can be used without the introduction of chemicals with initial reduction of 30% to 50% fertilizer application; however, Garcia advocates the use of BIO-N inoculated compost, which contains the essential elements necessary for plants to grow.
Additionally, BIO-N inoculated plants are also resistant to leaf diseases, according to Garcia. In the case of corn, it was observed that it is less attacked by corn borers because the leaves are thicker and have less trichomes known as outgrowths from the epidermis of plants. Bio Tech plans to continue development of the bio-fertilizer for high valued crops; currently, it has shown positive results in tomato, eggplant and legumes, as well as in sugar cane and banana production.
The facility, launched on January 8, 2008 at the BSU Balili Experimental Station, will use funds remaining after equipment costs to finance the training and establishment of a demo farm, which will be used to establish the bio-fertilizer’s profitability. BSU President Rogelio D. Colting said products will be available for sale from Bio Tech while awaiting the operation of the facility.
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