Several Philippine legislators recently stated the need for more science-oriented farmers and agriculturists. The lawmakers noted that with the pressing global issues of food security and climate change, the demand for those in the agriculture-related fields will increase. Philippine Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan said that much of agriculture is in science, and that the country now needs farmers who are willing to adopt technologies and agricultural scientists and engineers that would enhance or modernize the country's agriculture industry.

Sen. Pangilinan also expressed that present agriculture of the country has "too much politics and too little science." He cited the need for training and support for farmers so that they would be more open to technologies that will increase their outputs and income.

Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala also encouraged students to take up agronomy, saying that income can be reaped from the field and that people actually became successful from farming.

Meanwhile, AGHAM Representative Angelo Palmones stressed the need for marine scientists, entomologists, plant pathologists, and soil and agriculture scientists as such experts are already depleting in the country. "We need these people to strengthen our food production," said Rep. Palmones. AGHAM is an association of science professionals, science journalists, advocates and supporters that seeks to push science and technology as effective tools for economic development.

For the original article, visit http://www.gmanews.tv/story/218891/technology/govt-to-students-the-future-is-in-agri-science. For more information about agricultural biotechnology in the Philippines, visit SEARCA BIC's website http://www.bic.searca.org or e-mail bic@agri.searca.org. (Jenny A. Panopio and Sophia M. Mercado)

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