PHILARM Enlightened on Biotech and Social and Economic Responsibility

The Philippine Association of Research Managers, Inc. (PHILARM) comprised of heads of research institutions and state universities and colleges, project and study leaders, and researchers, were briefed on the role of biotechnology in advancing social and economic responsibility in local R&D during a  session in their 23^rd PHILARM National Convention. The convention was held on April 16, 2013 at Villa Caceres Hotel, Naga City, Philippines.

Dr. Antonio Alfonso, Program Coordinator of the Department of Agriculture - Biotechnology Program Office (DA-BPO) introduced the biotech research projects supported by DA-BPO and their R&D roadmap. Ms. Sonny Tababa, Biotechnology Affairs Director of CropLife Asia, presented the major roles of crop biotech in global food security and the private sector's R&D efforts. Ms. Jenny Panopio, Network Administrator and Special Projects Coordinator of the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture - Biotechnology Information Center (SEARCA BIC) presented the global benefits of biotech crops and emphasized the importance of communicating biotechnology to various stakeholders. She also encouraged the research managers to take up the challenge of imparting their research results particularly on biotechnology for the benefit of stakeholders. The biotech session also served as a venue for the resource persons to elucidate on the queries of PHILARM members on biotech concerns in the Philippines, including the coexistence of organic agriculture and biotech crops.

For more information about biotech developments in the Philippines, visit SEARCA BIC's website, http://www.bic.searca.org, or e-mail them at bic@agri.searca.