The Asian Farmer’s Regional Network (ASFARNET) – Philippines recently conducted the second Regional ASFARNET Agri-Biotech Conference with the theme Agri-biotechnology in Biodiversity and Sustainable Agriculture last 20 May 2010 at the People’s Hall, Provincial Capitol of Albay, Philippines.

About 80 participants composed of farmers, agricultural extension workers and technicians, and academe learned on the current applications of biotechnology in biodiversity and its role in promoting sustainable agriculture. The conference also updated the participants on Philippine initiatives on agri-biotechnology.

Department of Agriculture (DA) Biotech Program Office Director Candida B. Adalla shared the ongoing research, communication and policy support initiatives of the DA related to agricultural biotechnology that include R&D support on crop genetic engineering with improved traits such insect resistant Bt eggplant and vitamin-A enriched rice; marker-based assisted breeding for virus resistance in abaca; and mass production of coconut and makapuno. Dr. Adalla also said that the DA is recognizing biotechnology as an additional option to Filipino farmers to increase farm yields and income as well as a source of additional livelihood opportunities in the countryside.

During the conference, first-hand experiences from biotech farmers, Ms. Rosalie Ellasus of Pangasinan and Engr. Raul Careras of Camarines Sur, were also imparted focusing on the benefits and impact of adopting biotech crops in their lives.

The event was part of the series of information, education and communication efforts of the ASFARNET Philippines. The ASFARNET supports the sharing, exchange, transfer or adoption of information, knowledge, skills and technologies in agriculture and other relevant fields of disciplines to enhance traditional farming, improve agricultural productivity, safer environment, and promote rural development.

The conference was co-organized by the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotechnology (ISAAA) and SEARCA Biotechnology Information Center (BIC) with support from the Provincial Government of Albay, Agricultural Biotechnology Support Project (ABSPII), Philippines Department of Agriculture Biotechnology Program (DA BPO) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

To learn more about biotechnology updates in the Philippines, visit SEARCA BIC website at http://www.bic.searca.org or e-mail bic@agri.searca.org. (Jenny A. Panopio, SEARCA BIC)

For more information, please contact:

Ms. Jenny A. Panopio
Special Project Coordinator & Network Administrator
Biotechnology Information Center
SEAMEO SEARCA
College, Laguna 4031
Email: jap at agri.searca.org
Tel: (63-49)536-2290 loc 169 or 406
Tele/Fax: (63-49)536-4105
URL: www.bic.searca.org