MPSPC Gears up for "Project Wild Tea" in Mountain Province

MPSPC is mounting for another innovative venture on "Project Wild Tea." This initiative has taken its inaugural steps with the commencement of the project's Inception Meeting and Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) visit, overseen by the Forestry and Environment Research Division (FERD) under the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) which was held on December 13, 2023 at the HM Hall, MPSPC Bontoc Campus.

 

 

Commencing with a courtesy call to the MPSPC President, the schedule encompassed presentations and discussions regarding the project’s implementation. The gathering witnessed the convergence of key stakeholders, including representatives from the PCAARRD-FER Division, MPSPC RDE and Project Team members, the MPSPC Accounting Unit Head, the SPMO Director and representatives from the BAC Office.

 

Dr. Edgar G. Cue, also graced the meeting, in which he emphasized fostering the development of the College through these research endeavors. The comprehensive overview of the two-year endeavor was presented by Dr. Lichelyn M. Nasungan (Project Team Leader). The primary goal of "Project Wild Tea" is to propagate high-quality plant materials and establish nurseries dedicated to cultivating indigenous tea plants across Mountain Province.

 

Dr. Nasungan expressed optimism regarding the potential impact of the project. She further emphasized that the locally produced tea will offer an alternative to imported products. The occasion provided a platform for collaboration, guidance on project guidelines, and open dialogue fostering a sense of shared purpose and enthusiasm among participants.

 

Beyond the commercial aspect, the project's core focus aligns with critical Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 1, 2, 3, – striving to alleviate poverty, combat hunger, promote good health and well-being, and foster economic growth within the region).

 

As "Project Wild Tea" takes root, it symbolizes a concerted effort towards local sustainability, economic empowerment, and the cultivation of underutilized plants that promise a flavorful journey from the wild to every teacup in Mountain Province.