Engineering Biology for Agriculture: DOST-PCAARRD Launches EcoSCENT Project to Revolutionize Fruit Fly Control in Mango and Avocado Production
The Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), through its Crops Research Division (CRD), has officially launched a pioneering three-year research initiative titled “Escherichia coli engineering to synthesize semiochemicals against entomological problems (EcoSCENT): A novel approach in the control of fruit fly oviposition in mango and avocado” during an inception meeting attended by national and regional science leaders, researchers, and partner institutions.
The EcoSCENT project introduces an innovative biotechnology-driven strategy aimed at addressing one of the most persistent threats in fruit production—fruit fly infestation. Led by Engr. Karlo Isagani A. Mosqueda of the University of Mindanao, the project seeks to develop a self-sustaining, species-specific, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable pest management system for mango and avocado industries.
At the core of the project is the engineering of a non-pathogenic Escherichia coli strain designed to produce semiochemicals—biological compounds that influence insect behavior. This cutting-edge approach aims to disrupt fruit fly oviposition patterns, thereby reducing crop damage and improving yield quality without relying heavily on conventional chemical pesticides.
The inception meeting was graced by Dr. Juanito T. Batalon, DOST-PCAARRD Deputy Executive Director for Research and Development, underscoring the Council’s strong support for advanced agricultural biotechnology initiatives. The activity was spearheaded by Dr. Leilani D. Pelegrina, Director of the Crops Research Division, together with Sharie Al-Faiha A. Lubang, Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) Manager for Mango, Renelle C. Yebron, Program Development and Resource Generation (PDRG) Section Head, and Kristine Joy P. de Guzman, Program Monitoring and Evaluation (PME) Section Head, alongside key personnel from CRD, OED-RD, and FAD.
Also present were representatives from DOST Regional Office XI, GREAT applicants from Visayas State University (VSU), project consultants, and members of the University of Mindanao research team, reflecting a broad multi-institutional collaboration in support of agricultural innovation.
Stakeholders emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary research and biotechnology applications in addressing long-standing agricultural challenges, particularly in pest management. The EcoSCENT project is expected to contribute significantly to sustainable agriculture by offering an environmentally responsible alternative to traditional pest control methods while enhancing productivity and farmer resilience.
Through this initiative, DOST-PCAARRD reaffirms its commitment to advancing science-based solutions for agriculture, strengthening food security, and promoting cutting-edge research that directly benefits Filipino farmers and the broader agricultural sector.
As the EcoSCENT project officially commences, it sets the stage for transformative breakthroughs in entomological pest control, positioning the Philippines at the forefront of agricultural biotechnology innovation.
Share this article
