The Department of Agriculture–Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) highlighted four decades of science-driven rice innovations and partnerships as it convened more than 600 scientists, farmers, youth leaders, policymakers, and development partners during the 37th Ugnay Palay National Rice Research for Development (R4D) Conference in Nueva Ecija.
Held under the theme “40 Years of Rice Innovations: Sowing Progress, Harvesting Prosperity,” the conference served as a platform to review PhilRice’s contributions to rice science, technology development, and community-based interventions that have supported productivity, resilience, and farmer livelihoods through the years.
Senator Francis Pangilinan, chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, underscored the importance of science-based and farmer-centered reforms in his keynote address, affirming the role of research institutions such as PhilRice in shaping evidence-informed policies.
“It is time we find solutions, take the right steps, and implement necessary interventions to address the problems in our rice sector,” Pangilinan said, stressing the need to empower farmers and strengthen agriculture through inclusive approaches.
PhilRice also used the conference to present key innovations and initiatives, including the launch of Palai, an artificial intelligence-powered chatbot for rice knowledge support; the RiceBIS Magsasaka Network, which strengthens data-driven extension; new knowledge products; and the recognition of a world-class rice variety developed by the Institute.
Discussions revisited PhilRice’s institutional journey and the findings of external evaluations, highlighting the Institute’s continuous improvement and accountability in delivering research-for-development outcomes. Plenary sessions emphasized co-innovation, climate-smart agriculture, and digital solutions to help farmers cope with climate risks, rising production costs, and food security challenges.
Breakout sessions explored advances in rice-based enterprises, participatory extension, mechanization, smart farming, and youth engagement—areas where PhilRice continues to work closely with partners to ensure that innovations are adopted on the ground.
The conference concluded with a dialogue among PhilRice career scientists and the recognition of outstanding poster presentations, reinforcing the Institute’s commitment to nurturing scientific excellence.
Participants reaffirmed their support for scaling R4D strategies led and facilitated by PhilRice to address climate change, food security, and technological disruptions, in line with national priorities and global development goals.
