Accelerating multi-level rice-based farming systems in the Philippines

LOS BAÑOS, Philippines (20 May 2024) – The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Good Neighbors International (GNI) signed a collaborative agreement to promote and accelerate research and extension on global, regional, and national rice-based farming systems, beginning in Central Luzon, the largest rice-producing region in the Philippines.

The agreement was formalized by IRRI Director General Yvonne Pinto and GNI Director General Sun Kim at IRRI Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines on 20 May 2024. This partnership aims to jumpstart a major long-term agricultural project between the institutions, ensuring food security in the face of climate change.

“This cooperation with GNI reflects IRRI’s strategic approach to engage with the Government of Korea through KOICA to scale out agricultural innovations and scientific capacity in Southeast Asia,” said Dr. Yvonne Pinto, IRRI Director General. She also highlighted how this collaboration aligns well with one of IRRI’s major projects with the Philippine Department of Agriculture – the OneRicePH , an initiative to streamline the country’s rice breeding strategies and variety dissemination.

“The international cooperation with IRRI, which has diverse experiences and key experts in rice research, improvement of rice varieties responding to climate change, has a significance in responding to global climate change and improving food security. Also, it is meaningful that we as a team take the lead in addressing international poverty and hunger, including the Philippines,” said Director General Sun Kim of GNI.

Combining GNI’s strengths and resources in delivering effective capacity development at the grassroots level with IRRI’s expertise in rice science, both organizations are committed to helping improve the income and livelihoods of rice producers in the region.

The future cooperation aims to enhance food security and support sustainable livelihoods for farmers in Central Luzon, focusing…