Multi-awarded PhilRice researchers Dr. Roel Suralta, Dr. Sailila Abdula, and Jaime Manalo IV were once again recognized for their notable contributions to rice science and development. Suralta, Scientist I and Crop Biotechnology Center director, received the Eduardo A. Quisumbing Medal for basic research from the Department of Science and Technology- National Academy of Science and Technology (DOST-NAST). He was recognized for his study titled, Developmental and quantitative trait loci (QTL) […]

The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) has partnered with the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) to help the farmers increase their productivity by integrating dairy enterprise in rice production. The partnership is in support to PhilRice’s Palayamanan Plus, an intensified rice-based production system that focuses on increasing profitability in the rice environments through integration and diversification of farming components such as rice-based crop production, mushroom, livestock, and organic production for higher […]

The Rice Science Museum of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) highlighted the traditional farm implements and cultural music in celebration of the National Heritage Month. As part of the new exhibit titled, Transformation in Progress, farm implements such as araro (plow), lingkaw (scythe), bilao (winnow), and kareta (sled), which were gradually replaced with modern machines, are displayed.  An acoustic session called Awit, Palay, at Buhay was also conducted to […]

A research study found bio-pesticides or organic pesticides effective in managing rice pests and diseases. Often, bio-pesticides are used in vegetables. But the study titled Bio-pesticides: Pest management in rice conducted by PhilRice Isabela, and DA-Northern Cagayan Experiment Station (NCES) proved that they can also be effective in managing rice pests. Bio-pesticides are compounds derived from plants, animals, and microorganisms that contain natural deterrents and anti-microbial properties that help ensure […]

Experts at PhilRice alert farmers to prepare for the rainy season by using appropriate varieties and technologies in rice farming. Dr. Norvie Manigbas, head of PhilRice’s Plant Breeding and Biotechnology Division, advised farmers to plant varieties which stand at most 100 cm and with strong stems that can withstand 40-60 kph wind speed. Some of these varieties are PSB Rc14, Rc68, NSIC Rc9, and Rc222. “Rainfed areas are also prone […]

A PhilRice photographer recently won in the 5th IREX Make a Better World Photo Contest, May 10. The International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX), a US-based non-profit organization, selected best images of scenes and individuals around the world that demonstrate one or more of four theme categories: empowering youth, cultivating leaders, strengthening institutions, and extending access to quality education and information. Jayson C. Berto, a videographer and writer from the […]

LIGAO CITY, ALBAY ― The PhilRice branch in Bicol is training farmers on agripreneurship in partnership with the local government of this city. The training program that started in January this year is in support of the Institute’s Rural Transformation Movement (RTM) to develop and promote rice-based enterprises. Key components of the program are record-keeping and marketing. Around 30 participants were taught on how to record their expenses such as […]

The PhilRice Text Center (PTC) posted a 47.3% increase in client registration nationwide for the first quarter of 2016. Data shows that from 18,924 registered clients in March 2015, it jumped to 27,883 as of March 31, 2016. PTC is a digital platform that provides daily consultation services to rice farmers through call and short messaging services (SMS). It also caters to students, extension workers, researchers, and other stakeholders who […]

Better extension service can be expected from 67 AgRiDOCs (Agricultural Development Officers of the Community) who completed a 4-month training at the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), April 21. Titled Enabling the AgRiDOC: A New Breed of Agricultural Development and Extension Officers of the Community, the training prepared the AgRiDOCs to help raise the bar of extension services to develop sustainable, competitive, and resilient farming communities. The AgRiDOC training is […]

The Philippine Society of Agricultural Engineers (PSAE) commended agricultural engineers and researchers of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) for their studies and outstanding contribution in agriculture during the 66th PSAE Annual Convention at Mariano Marcos State University, Batac City, Ilocos Norte, April 24-30. PhilRice Scientist, Dr. Ricardo F. Orge won the Most Outstanding Agricultural Engineer or Maramba Award, the highest recognition given during the event. The same award was […]