Manila — In a renewed call for scientific advancements in agriculture, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the importance of leveraging science to achieve a 97 percent self-sufficiency goal for the country. The statement came during his keynote speech at the 6th International Rice Congress held in the Philippines on October 16.
According to a news release by Philippines News Agency, hosts of the International Rice Congress, President Marcos was presented with a sample of ultra-low glycemic index (GI) rice. IRRI claims that consuming this specialized rice improves glycemic control, maintaining blood glucose levels within a healthy range and offering benefits for individuals with diabetes. The President expressed optimism for more such innovations through research.
Dr. Rex L. Navarro of the Coalition for Agriculture Modernization in the Philippines recently noted that the demand for food is expected to surge by 70 percent by 2050, when the global population is projected to reach 9.7 billion. He highlighted the role of science in enhancing agricultural productivity, mitigating post-harvest losses, and bolstering food safety. Citing the Green Revolution as a successful application of science in agriculture, Navarro also pointed to advancements like hermetic storage bags and irradiation technology for safeguarding stored grains and food products, respectively.
The President further outlined that the Department of Agriculture (DA) is implementing the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program (MRIDP) aimed at addressing the challenges in food security. The program plans to utilize several science-backed strategies such as climate change adaptation, balanced soil nutrient management, smart water management, and digital transformation. With a 'triple A' approach focusing on agricultural productivity, agribusiness, and agro-industrialization, MRIDP also aspires to achieve economies of scale through farm clustering and consolidation.
Undersecretary of the DA, Leocadio Sebastian, has repeatedly highlighted the necessity for a robust agricultural extension system fueled by a public-private-people partnership to deploy and scale up these science-based innovations. Navarro reiterated that substantial investments and institutional innovations in agricultural research, development, and extension are crucial for ensuring sustainable food security.