The Department of Agriculture (DA) of the Philippines and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) have joined forces through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to elevate the country’s rice production by incorporating sustainable practices. Signed on Tuesday, the five-year agreement aims to enhance yield, cut production costs, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve both marketing efficiency and the overall value of the rice industry.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. and IRRI interim Director General Dr. Ajay Kohli penned the MOU, which outlines a comprehensive plan for scientific and technical collaboration. This initiative is set to bolster the competitiveness of the Philippine rice sector on the global stage.
Under the MOU, the DA and IRRI will engage in a variety of activities designed to upgrade extension services and strengthen the capabilities of public institutions.
This will ensure the widespread adoption of advanced farming technologies, practices, and services. The agreement also focuses on enhancing the skills and knowledge of Filipino researchers and extension workers.
Secretary Tiu Laurel expressed optimism about the partnership, highlighting its alignment with the DA’s vision of securing food for the nation, promoting agricultural competitiveness, and fostering a climate-resilient environment.
He emphasized the importance of this collaboration in ensuring that rice farmers benefit from their hard work and that the agriculture sector becomes more appealing to the youth.
“This agreement with IRRI will help DA realize its vision of a food-secured, globally-competitive, and climate-resilient Philippines, where rice farmers reap the fruits of their labor and more investments are poured into agriculture to attract the younger generation of farmers,” said Secretary Tiu Laurel.
The partnership will see the DA and IRRI undertake research for development projects, which are essential for fulfilling the DA’s mandates and priorities and fortifying the scientific prowess of the DA’s research entities.
These initiatives will be designed with sustainability at their core, guaranteeing that the benefits of the research extend beyond the lifespan of the projects.
The exchange of genetic and biological materials between the DA and IRRI will adhere to the established intellectual property rules set forth by both parties.
Results from their joint research endeavors are set to be published collaboratively, ensuring a wide-reaching impact.
For specific research proposals, separate agreements will be crafted in accordance with the DA-prescribed format. Financing for these projects will be a joint effort between the DA and IRRI.
An external review of the MOU, orchestrated by an organization chosen by the DA, will take place in the third year of its implementation.
After thorough consultations with all pertinent stakeholders, there is a provision for the MOU’s extension, subject to mutual written consent by both the IRRI and DA.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in the Philippines’ quest for agricultural innovation and progress in the rice sector.
