#ProudViscan alumnus tops National Coconut R&D Congress with pest control research

With research that could help secure the future of the country’s coconut industry, Necodimus F. Cañas, fresh from completing his MS in Entomology at Visayas State University (VSU), claimed first place in the 2025 National Coconut Research and Development Congress (NCRDC) Poster Category. The event was held from July 29 to 31, 2025 at the Acacia Hotel in Alabang, Muntinlupa.

Organized by DOST-PCAARRD with the Philippine Coconut Authority, this year’s NCRDC gathered scientists, students, and industry experts to present solutions to pressing challenges faced by coconut farmers. 

Cañas’ winning entry, “Characterization and Prevalence of Oryctes Nudivirus (ORNV) Infections among Coconut Rhinoceros Beetles (𝘖𝘳𝘺𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘳𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘰𝘤𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘴) in the Philippines”, is based on his thesis work in VSU Department of Pest Management (VSU-DPM.)

The study examined how a naturally occurring virus, OrNV, is effectively controlling coconut rhinoceros beetles, one of the most destructive pests in coconut farming.

The research brought encouraging news. The more destructive, virus-resistant CRB-G strain has not yet reached the Philippines. This means the OrNV method currently used in pest management remains highly effective and offers hope for healthier harvests and sustained incomes for coconut farmers nationwide.

For VSU, this national recognition amplifies its standing as a leading hub for agricultural and scientific research. It reflects the university’s capacity to produce work that not only advances academic knowledge but also delivers real-world benefits to one of the country’s most important crops.

Cañas was joined at the congress by fellow VSU scholars who also presented their research, namely Joey B. Vantulan (BS Chemistry), Asella B. Lanugon (BS Agriculture – Plant Protection, Entomology), Andrew Joseph Baylon (BS Chemistry), and Angelene Labay (BS Agriculture – Plant Protection, Entomology). Their participation showcased the breadth of talent across disciplines within the university.

Guided by his adviser, Dr. Justine Bennette Millado, and supported by co-researchers Joshua L. Abelitado, Gideon R. Yepes, Alexis L. Poliquit, Darius Noel C. Miñoza, Cyrill John P. Godinez, and Sarah Jean C. Sugano, Cañas’ work demonstrates the impact of rigorous, field-based science in shaping industry practices.

Victories like this continue to put VSU on the map not only as a premier institution for agricultural education but as a driving force in research that directly supports the livelihoods of Filipino farmers.

“When science protects the farmer’s harvest, it also protects the nation’s food security,” Cañas said.

This article is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) 4: Quality Education; SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production; and SDG 13: Climate Action. 

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