By Kenneth Marcos 
The hum of discussion and the exchange of ideas will soon fill Clark, Pampanga, as researchers, farmers, and government officials prepare to shape the future of Philippine agriculture and fisheries. From March 11 to 13, 2026, the Department of Agriculture (DA), through its Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR), will host the first-ever National Agri-Fishery Research for Development Summit (NAFRDS).
The summit aims to create a unified research agenda that guides public and private investments in agriculture and fisheries R4D (Research for Development). BAR, as the DA’s lead agency for coordinating and funding agricultural research, will bring together representatives from government agencies, state universities and colleges (SUCs), private sector partners, and non-government organizations.
Collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) underscores the whole-of-government approach to R4D. During the summit, each agency will present its current investments, priorities, and perspectives on agri-fisheries research. Parallel workshops will then focus on 13 commodity and thematic groups, including aquaculture, capture fisheries, rice, corn, fruits, legumes, vegetables, coconut, industrial and plantation crops, rootcrops, integrated forest management crops, and livestock sectors such as poultry, swine, and ruminants.
These sessions aim to identify research gaps and opportunities, prioritize critical areas for development, and determine which initiatives should be publicly funded versus those suitable for private investment. Public and private implementing agencies will be mapped for each R4D area, ensuring coordinated and efficient use of resources.
The summit will conclude with a plenary presentation of a consolidated R4D framework to key decision-makers, including cabinet members, SUC presidents, and agency heads. The Signing of the Commitment Wall will serve as a formal expression of accountability, signaling that all stakeholders pledge to follow through on agreed priorities. Once completed, the unified R4D Priority Agenda will be formalized through a DA Memorandum Circular, ensuring nationwide alignment across bureaus, regional offices, and attached agencies.
Through the NAFRDS, DA-BAR reinforces its commitment to making research responsive to the needs of farmers and fisherfolk, supporting sustainable growth, and contributing to national development goals. The event is co-hosted by DA-Central Luzon, with funding from the Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund, marking a major step toward coordinated and impactful agri-fishery research in the Philippines.
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