Aseoche, Frida Rich V.

ABE 30 - T2

Center of Agri-fisheries and Biosystems Mechanization (BIOMECH)

BIOMECH, by definition, is a research and public service center which addresses the
need for mechanization towards efficient farming and fisheries processing operations in the
country. As stated by the UPLB, its contributions are guided by its main goal of helping
achieve food security through agriculture mechanization and green energy production.
Dr. Rosanna Marie Amongo, the first BIOMECH director, mentioned that
mechanizing agriculture is a necessary step for industrialization. “Developed countries took
the same path to industrialization by reinforcing its agricultural sector. Why? Because that’s
where you get your raw materials. To have the volume of raw materials that you need for
industrialization, you need to mechanize,” Dr. Amongo said.
In 1979, BIOMECH built as the Agricultural Mechanization Development Program
(AMDP) was established to “address the need for a regional network for agriculture
mechanization.” According to UPLB, the UP Board of Regents approved its elevation as a
center at its 1312th meeting last October 2015, cementing its role as a public service unit of
the university.
Some of the BIOMECH’s significant accomplishments are the shallow tube well
technology, a means to access groundwater resources and a centerpiece of the Agricultural
and Fisheries Modernization Act; the Corn Mechanization Sub-Program, which involved the
identification of the needs of the mechanization processes in the corn industry; and the fresh-
dry methods for integrated coconut processing, a simple technology package which produces
cooking oil.
In addition, UPLB stated that BIOMECH explored high value crop mechanization,
conducted pioneering studies in land consolidation, and took part in crafting the Agricultural
and Fisheries Mechanization Law of 2013 (Republic Act 10601), its implementing rules and
regulations, and formulation of the National Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization
Program of the law.
“BIOMECH was also a prime mover in developing the Modified Agricultural
Mechanization Index, a protocol for measuring the level of agricultural mechanization in the
country that was adapted by the Department of Agriculture. Another recent initiative is a
study to measure the level of mechanization in the fisheries sector” (UPLB,2019).
Well-founded with the thought of instruction as the primary public service of UPLB,
BIOMECH can without a doubt be a preparing ground for youthful workforce and analysts.
Dr. Amongo explained that BIOMECH has supported students in engineering who go into
mechanization design for their thesis and serves as a training ground for new MS-level
faculty members who have yet to establish their research credentials.
“They are encouraged to design, to explore, and to create as part of a mentorship practice in
CEAT and BIOMECH, ensuring a pool of new and experienced researchers” (UPLB,2019).

This philosophy extends to BIOMECH’s goal to increase productivity in different agriculture

faculties and to elevate recognition for the Agricultural Engineering profession as provided
for within the AFMech Law of 2013, mandating UPLB-BIOMECH to guide and coordinate
the agricultural and fishery mechanization RDE program of all educational establishments
within the country.

References:
Arana, J. (2019). Biomech: A center of learning and public service. University of the
Philippines LOS BANOS. https://uplb.edu.ph/public-service/biomech-a-center-of-learning-
and-public-service/