Two of the Agricultural Machinery Testing and Evaluation (AMTEC) testing clients, Super Trade Machinery Global Inc. and YANMAR Philippines Corporation, extended their help during the UPLB clearing operations by lending four-wheel tractors in the aftermath of the severe tropical storm (STS) Kristine (intl. Name: Trami). 

After the storm ravaged many parts of the country, including the university premises, immense destructions were left around the campus. The tractors were used, through the UPLB University Planning and Maintenance Office (UPMO), to transport the uprooted trees and other fallen objects that have obstructed the pathways and other structures within the university. 

These agricultural tractors had already been tested by the Center and were ready for the clients’ retrieval before the onslaught of STS Kristine was felt in the area that lasted for two days (October 23-24, 2024). 

Over the years, the Center has strengthened its partnerships not just with allied government agencies but also with private entities in the field. These collaborations go beyond the mandates of the Center in the agricultural mechanization programs into other various university-related activities as well. 

Meanwhile, due to the severity of the damages left by the storm, interruptions in the operations of AMTEC were experienced for almost a week after the storm. Fortunately, no major damages were recorded in AMTEC. However, the staff resumed immediately to perform their tasks and ensure that the facilities and equipment of the Center were in good condition before its complete resumption.

The tractors will be utilized until the completion of the clearing operations around the campus. Apart from these initiatives, other university units and student-led organizations have launched donation drives and community pantries to help the affected university constituents. 

UPLB is very grateful to Super Trade Machinery Global Inc. and YANMAR Philippines Corporation for the huge help it has provided as the university aims to finish its cleanup, to ensure the safety of its constituents. 

Maraming Salamat!