A Technological Leap Forward
Ilocos Norte, Philippines – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. made a resolute commitment on Monday to harness new technology to ensure a stable supply of rice in the Philippines, making it accessible and affordable to the Filipino population.
Bridging Lab to Field
Speaking at the launch of the 2023 Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU)-Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) rice paddy art, President Marcos stressed the importance of translating “new technology from the laboratory to the rice field.”
Technological Solutions in the Face of Climate Change
He highlighted the significance of adopting advanced technology, particularly in light of climate change, stating,
“The new technologies have become so important because of climate change.”
Government’s Role in Technological Development
President Marcos, who also serves as the concurrent secretary of the Department of Agriculture, asserted that it is the government’s responsibility to develop the technologies essential for the country’s agricultural productivity. He emphasized that
“it is the government’s job to bring now those new products to the market.”
Aiming for Stability and Affordability
The President underscored the need to enhance rice production in the Philippines to address rice prices in the market. He pointed out that while increasing production is essential, it must also benefit the farmers.
“Iyan ang hangarin ng DA,”
he added, referring to the Department of Agriculture.
Art and Innovation Merge
President Marcos attended the unveiling of the MMSU-PhilRice’s Rice Paddy Art, which features his facial image and his “Bagong Pilipinas” governance tagline. This event took place on the sidelines of the commemoration of the 106th birth anniversary of his father, the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos in Batac City, Ilocos Norte.
Honoring Agricultural Contributions
The rice paddy art initiative by MMSU-PhilRice aims to pay tribute to individuals who have made significant contributions to agricultural development and nation-building. It also showcases innovative rice production technologies and promotes agri-tourism in Ilocos Norte.
A Bright Future for Agriculture
The President applauded the successful collaboration between MMSU and PhilRice, which has resulted in novel rice production systems and technologies that can be pursued in the coming years in the Philippines.
A Gesture of Knowledge and Progress
President Marcos expressed his deep honor to attend the MMSU-PhilRice Rice Paddy Art event. He acknowledged the significance of the event, not only for its entertainment value but also for highlighting the depth of knowledge about rice cultivation and agricultural products in the Philippines.
Recognizing Excellence in Agricultural Research
He praised MMSU, the first state university established by his father, for producing exemplary agricultural research. He also commended PhilRice for its exceptional service to the Filipino people.
A Collaboration of Technology and Knowledge
The President highlighted the successful partnership between MMSU and PhilRice as a prime example of how technology and knowledge are driving progress in the field of agriculture.
Sources: THX News & Presidential Communications Office.
