The pandemic saw a renewed interest in ornamental plant propagation as a hobby and enterprise. Responding to this window of opportunity as an added income generating venture in a time of financial crisis, the University Extension and Development Center in cooperation with FITS-Municipality of Oton conducted a Training on Identification and Propagation of Ornamental Plants for Landscaping (Cutflower and Cutfoliage Production) last March 12, 2021  for members of  Oton Cutflower Association Inc.

Engr. Baltazar Gumana, a farmer-scientist and horticulture expert served as resource speaker. Before discussing seeds and seedlings, containerized plants and basics of cutflower production, he also gave a background of the current ornamental horticulture industry in  Western Visayas . The  afternoon session of the training was devoted to cutfoliage production  and propagation methods with actual demonstration.

The training was made possible thru the facilitation of Oton Municipal Agriculturist Emma V. Haro; Mr. Artyel Gabinete, President of Oton Cutflower Association, Inc. and Ms. Fe Seta Encontro,  UEDC Training Section In-Charge.