Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has emphasized how rice research and strong partnerships are helping Filipino farmers face growing climate threats, as the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) celebrated its 41st anniversary Thursday, November 5.
Speaking at the anniversary event, Tiu Laurel expressed confidence that science and teamwork would protect the country’s farming communities amid growing concerns over weather extremes like El Niño.
“Through proactive planning, strong collaboration, and mutual support, we can safeguard our farming communities,” he said.
International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Director General Dr. Yvonne Pinto echoed the need for close cooperation, noting that IRRI and PhilRice work hand-in-hand to develop better rice varieties and farming methods suited to local conditions. She emphasized that research must translate into real help for farmers — from quality seeds and advice to reliable field information — especially as they deal with drought, floods, heat, and rising costs.
Former PhilRice chief Dr. Leocadio S. Sebastian described the moment as “the best of times in the worst of times,” saying the institute’s 41 years of experience puts it in a strong position to tackle what he called a “perfect storm” facing agriculture. He stressed that research should not only build resilience but also lift farmer incomes and support sustainable farming.
Since it was founded in 1985, PhilRice has developed 123 rice varieties and 90 farming technologies. It has trained over 120,000 farmers and experts, and helped more than 46,000 farmers grow into agri-business owners, earning over PhP409 million in total sales.
Key innovations highlighted this year include Submarino 1, a rice variety that survives flooding; Malusog Rice, rich in vitamin A; and the Minus-One Element Technique tool and app, which guide farmers on the right amount of fertilizer to use.
PhilRice Executive Director Dr. John C. de Leon thanked staff and partners for their dedication, while University of the Philippines Los Baños Chancellor Jose V. Camacho Jr. reaffirmed UPLB’s commitment to working together on agricultural science.
This year’s anniversary theme is: “BEST of PhilRice@41: Better Innovations, Empowered Farmers, Sustainable Rice Today and Tomorrow.”
