By Kenneth Marcos 
Researchers, farmers, and agriculture workers filled the hall in Nueva Ecija as the 37th Ugnay Palay National Rice Research for Development Conference opened its final day. The gathering buzzed with stories of new rice technologies, harvest improvements, and long-standing partnerships built over decades of shared work in the sector.
During the ceremony, the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Agricultural Research received a Certificate of Recognition for its strong and consistent support to the DA-Philippine Rice Research Institute. The award highlighted the bureau’s role in advancing the national Rice Research for Development and extension program, which focuses on improving rice productivity, developing climate-ready varieties, and making technologies more accessible to farmers.
DA-BAR OIC Director Joell H. Lales accepted the plaque on behalf of the bureau. He said the recognition reflects the government’s commitment to research that directly responds to the needs of Filipino rice farmers, especially those affected by rising production costs, unstable weather patterns, and market pressures.
The Ugnay Palay Conference, held from November 25 to 27 in Nueva Ecija, gathered experts, local government representatives, and community leaders to discuss new findings and strengthen collaboration. Organized annually by PhilRice, the event serves as a platform for sharing updates on seed development, crop management, mechanization, and digital tools for the rice industry.
Officials noted that research for development, or R4D, is vital to national food security. Rice remains the country’s staple, with Filipinos consuming more than 30,000 metric tons per day on average. Improving local production is essential to reduce dependence on imports and support rural communities where rice farming remains a primary livelihood.
During the conference, speakers emphasized the importance of sustained investment in science-based solutions. They cited breakthroughs such as high-yielding and flood-tolerant varieties, precision farming practices, and farmer training programs that help improve harvest quality and income. DA-BAR’s involvement ensures that these innovations continue to move from laboratories to rice fields across the country.
Participants also discussed the challenges facing the sector, including climate change, water shortages, and the need for stronger extension services. Many agreed that partnerships among agencies, research institutions, and farmers’ groups are crucial to address these issues effectively.
PhilRice executives thanked DA-BAR for its long-standing collaboration, noting that the bureau’s support allows research programs to expand and reach more communities. They added that the recognition is not only for the agency but for the thousands of field workers, scientists, and farmers who contribute to the country’s rice development efforts.
As the conference closed, organizers encouraged stakeholders to continue working together to build a stable, innovative, and farmer-focused rice industry. They stressed that research must always serve the people who grow the nation’s food.
With continued coordination among agencies and a strong push for science-based solutions, agriculture advocates hope to see more productive and resilient rice farms nationwide.
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