Elevating sericulture: Achieving higher yields and profits through best practices and technology

The Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University Sericulture Research and Development Institute (DMMMSU-SRDI) in Bacnotan, La Union, Philippines, advocates the application of optimal sericulture techniques at extension sites to boost the income of seri-farmers, particularly those from marginal sectors. A prime example is the Sericulture Demonstration Project Farm (Seri-Farm) in Barangay Lioac Sur, Naguilian, La Union, which has successfully operated for over a decade (2011–2022) and remains active today. The farm serves as a dynamic showcase of innovative sericulture technologies, promoting sustainable agriculture, rural livelihood improvement, and economic development. Seri-farmers diversified their activities, engaging in grain and vegetable farming, animal husbandry, sugarcane cultivation, and vinegar/winemaking, with sericulture as a complementary endeavor. The initiative provided employment opportunities for out-of-school youth and community workers while catering to both domestic and international silk markets. The farm’s medium-textured soil, high nutrient content, and favorable weather during most rearing seasons supported high-value cocoon production, though larval performance was affected in 2017 by disease and climate change. Over its 11-year span, the Seri-Farm achieved significant results, completing 31 rearing cycles and producing 392.7 kg of fresh cocoons, generating a total income of PhP94,935.00. Additionally, allied products such as cuttings, saplings, seeds, novelty items, fruit beverages, vinegar, wine, and compost contributed PhP176,215.00, underscoring the economic potential of integrated sericulture farming systems. published by the Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences | JBES