By Kenneth Marcos 
In a quiet research field in Negros Occidental, rows of mungbean plants stand as proof that science and dedication can change lives. Behind these healthy crops is an all-female team of plant breeders whose work is now reaching farmers’ fields and helping strengthen Philippine agriculture.
As part of the 96th founding anniversary of the Bureau of Plant Industry, the government recognized the women scientists from the La Granja National Crop Research, Development and Production Support Center for developing a new mungbean variety known as LG Mg 28-6-0, also called “Kulabo 2.” The recognition highlights the growing role of women in agricultural science and innovation.
Kulabo 2 is a high-yielding mungbean variety developed after years of careful research, testing, and field trials. According to the Bureau of Plant Industry, the variety shows good resistance to common insect pests and major plant diseases such as Cercospora leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew under natural field conditions. These diseases often cause serious yield losses for farmers, especially during the wet season.
Because of its strong performance, Kulabo 2 has been recommended for planting in Regions I, II, and III. These areas are among the country’s key producers of mungbean, a crop widely used in Filipino food such as soups, desserts, and snacks. Mungbean is also an important source of income for small farmers because it grows relatively fast and can be planted after rice harvest.
Agriculture officials said the new variety can help farmers reduce losses, lower production risks, and improve harvest quality. Disease-resistant crops mean fewer expenses for pesticides and more stable yields, which is important for farmers facing rising input costs and unpredictable weather.
The development of Kulabo 2 supports the Bureau of Plant Industry’s anniversary theme, which recognizes the contribution of women and youth in farming for a more abundant future. The achievement shows how women scientists are helping solve real problems in the field, from pests and diseases to food supply and farm income.
Women make up a large part of the agricultural workforce in the Philippines, yet their role in research and decision-making is often overlooked. Officials said recognizing women breeders sends a strong message that gender-inclusive science leads to better results for farmers and consumers alike.
The Bureau of Plant Industry added that innovations like Kulabo 2 are part of the government’s broader effort to boost crop productivity and resilience. With climate change affecting planting seasons and increasing pest pressure, developing improved varieties is seen as a key strategy to protect food security.
Farmers are encouraged to work with local agriculture offices to access quality seeds and proper planting guidance for the new mungbean variety. Proper use of improved seeds, combined with good farming practices, can help ensure better harvests and higher income.
As Kulabo 2 reaches more farming communities, the work of the women scientists behind it continues to bear fruit. Their success is a reminder that investing in research, and recognizing the role of women in agriculture, can help build a stronger and more sustainable food system for the country.
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