By Kenneth Marcos 
As the sun rises over rural communities across the country, farmers begin another day of work—planting, harvesting, and providing food for millions. But behind these everyday scenes, a quiet but powerful shift is happening in how government decisions are made. This September, the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) is joining a nationwide call to adapt to this change.
In line with Malacañang Proclamation No. 247, DA-BAR expressed full support for the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) in celebrating Development Policy Research Month (DPRM). Held every September, DPRM aims to promote evidence-based policymaking in government.
This year’s theme, “Reimagining Governance in the Age of AI,” highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping how government works. It calls on agencies, policymakers, and the public to start important conversations about how AI can be used to improve transparency, efficiency, and public service—especially for sectors that rely heavily on data, like agriculture.
“Policy research is not just for academics or those in Manila. The results of these studies directly affect programs for farmers, fisherfolk, and rural communities,” said a DA-BAR spokesperson. “With AI now being used to monitor crops, predict weather patterns, and detect pests, it’s important that our governance systems also evolve.”
Artificial intelligence refers to the use of machines and algorithms to perform tasks that usually require human intelligence, such as decision-making, analysis, or problem-solving. In agriculture, AI can help improve harvests, reduce losses, and guide policymaking by providing real-time insights from large volumes of data.
But with new technology comes new responsibility. The theme of this year’s DPRM encourages critical thinking on how AI is used in governance. How do we ensure AI-driven systems are fair? How do we protect data privacy, and avoid bias in decision-making?
The DA-BAR said its involvement in DPRM reflects its commitment to bringing policy research closer to the ground. Through partnerships with research institutions, local government units, and farming organizations, the bureau aims to create smarter, more inclusive agricultural policies using the best tools available.
PIDS, the lead organizer of DPRM, has scheduled a series of forums, policy dialogues, and educational campaigns throughout the month to engage citizens and public servants in learning about AI and governance.
Since its declaration in 2002, Development Policy Research Month has become a platform for promoting the use of research and data in addressing national issues—from poverty and education, to climate change and food security.
For the agriculture sector, where most workers still face unstable incomes and limited access to technology, this year’s theme is especially relevant. “We must not be left behind,” DA-BAR stressed. “AI is already changing the game globally. It’s time we ask how it can help Filipino farmers, and how government can responsibly lead this transformation.”
As the month-long observance continues, DA-BAR encourages the public, especially students, researchers, and local leaders, to take part in discussions on the future of governance in the digital age.
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