THE MARIANO Marcos State University distributed malunggay seedlings to farmers in Ilocos Norte as part of its seedling production project.

At least 55 farmers and housewives from Badoc, Currimao, Paoay, Solsona, Piddig, Dingras and Batac received 8,000 seedlings during the project’s pre-dispersal training at MMSU Function Hall.

The remaining seedlings will be distributed to interested farmers’ association from the different municipalities in the province.

Dr. Dionisio Bucao, project leader, said that malunggay can be used in many products.

“Venturing in malunggay production and processing them into various products can be an excellent stride towards uplifting the economic lives of Ilokano communities,” Bucai said.

MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis said that strong support and commitment from the beneficiaries are instrumental in ensuring the success of the malunggay project.

“Through your cooperation, we hope to rise a new ‘Green Gold’ of the North,” she said.

The initiative intends to research the potential commercial application of malunggay, increase its economic value, offer additional income to Ilokano farmers, and maintain a food secure province in conjunction with the DA-Regional Field Office I and the City Government of Batac.