Executive Order No. 1061 (November 1985) mandates DA-PhilRice to develop and implement a national rice research for development (R4D) program to improve and sustain rice production in the country. Together with its government and private sector partners and collaborators, DA-PhilRice has succeeded in implementing its Strategic Plan 2017-2022 through its rice R4D programs and projects on the ground with a positive outlook for wider coverage to reach more rice and rice-based farming communities nationwide.

As underscored in the aspiration and pronouncement of our President, DA-PhilRice must stay on this path of success, and at the same time address the tall order of achieving sufficient and affordable rice for all Filipinos using science-based information and strategies. The 2022 conference will highlight the accomplishments of its current strategic plan 2017-2022 and present the new plan for 2023-2028.

As we introduce our new strategic plan vis-à-vis the national rice agenda, we find it timely and appropriate to have our vision – Advanced science and technology for prosperous rice-farming communities toward sufficient and affordable rice for all – as the theme for this year’s conference. This conference will provide a venue to acquire and exchange knowledge and experiences to address current issues and emerging problems besetting rice R4DE and the industry. Also, it will recognize and appreciate the rice R4D accomplishments and implementation strategies of the different sectors in the rice industry. On top of providing interaction among rice industry stakeholders in identifying appropriate and efficient strategies for rice R4DE and areas of collaboration in developing, promoting, and scaling rice and rice-based technologies, it will also gather feedback and advice on relevant rice R4DE thrusts and initiatives to achieve rice self-sufficiency along with making rice affordable for all as part of the national stakeholders consultation workshop of the draft DA-PhilRice Strategic Plan 2023-2028.