Despite the torrential rains, the 2025 DA-Bureau of Plant Industry National Research and Development Review successfully pushed through on July 23–24 in Makiling Highlands Resort in Makiling, Laguna. Nine completed research studies, conducted by various divisions and research centers of the BPI, will be presented over the two-day activity, from which the best three papers and three posters will be selected. Adding significance to the occasion was the launching of the BPI’s Research and Development Publications, including the Compendium of Research Abstracts (2014–2024) and the 2024 NRDR Proceedings. (Read more in the comment section)
BPI Assistant Director for Research and Development and Production Support Services, Herminigilda A. Gabertan, Ph.D. welcomed participants and expressed gratitude to everyone who made the event possible. She highlighted the presentation of nine completed research studies from various BPI divisions and research centers are aligned with the Bureau’s seven flagship programs and focused on industry-driven and gender-responsive initiatives.
With the theme “Masiglang Agrikultura, Hatid ng Makabagong Teknolohiya,” she emphasized that despite technological advances, one in three Filipino families still faces food insecurity due to rising prices, limited access to technology, and climate change. Thus, research must go beyond presentation and be applied by farmers and stakeholders. She highlighted that BPI is already addressing two major challenges: the development of modern farming technologies and the production and distribution of quality seeds. “Seeds may seem small, but they are vital in putting food on every family’s table. Their impact on food security is huge,” she said. She also reminded everyone that each individual has a role to play, and that all are called with a purpose—toward building a food secure nation.
Assistant Director for Regulatory Services Ruel C. Gesmundo described the event as proof of BPI’s commitment to agricultural progress through science and innovation. He underscored the importance of the launched publications in transforming research into sustainable, practical solutions that benefit farmers and guide policy. As part of BPI’s regulatory services arm, he affirmed the essential role of research in improving seed systems, promoting good agricultural practices, and ensuring science-backed policies and actions.
Dr. Elmer E. Enicola of UPLB-IPB encouraged researchers to collaborate more widely, highlighting the importance of teamwork, partnerships, and international networking to enhance the reach and impact of agricultural research.
In behalf of Director Joell H. Lales of the DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research, Ms. Julia A. Lapitan highlighted the strong partnership between BPI and BAR, saying their collaboration has always been purposeful. “The research outputs are ready—now is the time to harvest,” she said. The launch of BPI’s R&D publications reflects the Bureau’s focus on delivering relevant, ground-level solutions. She emphasized that research must not remain on paper but must be adopted by end users to make real impact. The publications serve as concrete evidence of BPI’s initiatives, helping prevent redundancy, guide investments, and support the scaling of innovations. She also stressed the need to track research projects post-completion and ensure technologies are communicated effectively. She said DA-BAR is committed to supporting efforts in high-value crop development, varietal improvement, and technology adoption.
Joining via Zoom communications, Dr. Andrea Inocencio, from the Office of Undersecretary for Operations and Agri-Fisheries Mechanization Engr. Roger V. Navarro, shared that one of their key initiatives is enhancing the seed system by concentrating seed production in research centers for crops that can be locally produced—aimed at reducing food importation.
Dr. Almira Magcawas, STAARRDEC Consortium Director, also via Zoom congratulated BPI for launching its R&D publications, highlighting its commitment to knowledge sharing and innovation. She emphasized that strong partnerships and impactful research drive community empowerment and agricultural progress.
Keynote speaker Dr. Emma K. Sales, Chair of the PRC – Professional Regulatory Board of Agriculture, highlighted the need to safeguard Philippine agriculture amid ongoing challenges. She emphasized that farmers must be seen not just as beneficiaries, but as decision-makers in the value chain. In line with the second Philippine Agriculturist Month, she recognized agriculturists as key agents of transformation toward sustainable food systems.
Dr. Sales also underscored the importance of research, innovation, and smart technologies to boost productivity and farmer resilience. She discussed RA 11215 (Philippine Agriculturist Act), which strengthens professional standards in agriculture and encourages the next generation to pursue careers that secure the nation’s food future.
Finally, Academician Ruben L. Villareal, Ph.D. shared his personal experience on how collaboration and working closely with other government sectors and individuals played a key role in securing funding, support, and the successful implementation of his research initiatives. He emphasized that meaningful partnerships are essential in advancing agricultural development and achieving long-term impact.