The Training-Workshop on Genomic Techniques and Spectrophotometry using Spectrostar Nano Equipment was held on March 20-21, 2025 at the Benguet State University – Bioremediation Laboratory (CAS 301) and Northern Philippine Root Crops Research and Training Center (NPRCRTC) Potato R&D Laboratory. This two-day activity was part of an extension activity funded by the DOST-PCAARD project, “Development of Microbial and Plant-Microbial Combinations for Bioremediation of Pesticide-Contaminated Vegetable Areas in Selected Provinces,” led by Sherlyn C. Tipayno.

Following the opening prayer and the singing of the National Anthem, HORTI Director Jemma Rose Kilakil welcomed the participants and shared her personal experience attending a similar training. She emphasized the participants’ fortunate opportunity to engage in this free, hands-on training, supported by the funded project.

Tipayno then lectured on the principles and applications of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Spectrophotometry, covering gene amplification techniques and the use of spectrophotometry in absorbance measurements. VP for Research and Extension, Roscinto Ian C. Lumbres also delivered an inspiring message congratulating the project leader and staff for providing opportunities for faculty-researchers and students to explore innovative procedures.

The workshop included three main activities. The first session, at the Bioremediation Laboratory, involved learning to prepare samples mixed with PCR components, using three microbial samples (Methylobacterium oryzae, Pantoea allii, and Pseudomonas chlororaphis), and operating the PCR machine. The second activity, at the NPRCRTC Potato R&D Molecular Laboratory, focused on applying Spectrophotometry using the Spectrostar Nano and performing DNA quality tests to detect indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and siderophores in coded bacterial samples from plants. The third activity involved using the Gel Electrophoresis machine to prepare agarose gel, load amplified samples from the PCR test, run them through agarose gel electrophoresis, and analyze the PCR products using the Gel Documentation system.

The workshop was facilitated by project research associate and DOST scholar Jayson D. Komicho, along with research assistants Marivic B. Nakake-Panisan, Clarybel L. Cuyasen, Andrew V. Basbas, Jr., and Joanna I. Alafag.

During the evaluation and synthesis portion of the Closing Program on March 21, 2025, participants shared their key takeaways and expressed gratitude for the comprehensive workshop. Anna Cris L. Langaoan’s closing remarks added a personal and reflective touch. The organizers expressed sincere gratitude to DOST-PCAARD, the Office of Extension Services under Dr. Cheryll C. Launio, and NPRCRTC – Potato R & D Molecular Laboratory, headed by Ammie D. Ngaotoy, for their support and equipment use. The workshop had 34 participants, including BSU undergraduate and Advanced Studies students, BSU (CVM and CNS) faculty members, and faculty members from Ambiong National High School, Hope Christian Academy, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), University of Baguio (UB), and University of the Cordilleras (UC).// Abigail B. Barnedo (BS Bio 3).