Biotechnology Can Fill Food Production Gaps, Says ARMM DAF Secretary

Prof. Sangkula A. Tindick, Regional Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao  (ARMM) of the Philippines, affirmed his confidence and support to biotechnology to fill the supply gap in food production problems in the Region, during the closing program of a one day seminar on Biotechnology: Harnessing the Power of Life. He further said that "If we do not harness biotech we will not be able to feed the hungry, elevate our people from poverty and continue to destroy our environment and forests."

The one day seminar attended by over 120 participants from ARMM provinces Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-tawi was held in Cotabato City last May 22, 20102. It was highlighted with talks from Dr. Rhodora R. Aldemita, technical member of the Applied Biotechnology Committee of the Department of Agriculture Program Implementation Unit on the overview, updates and trend in biotechnology and the DA biotechnology road map; Dr. Carmen Abubakar of the Institute of Islamic Studies, UP Diliman on biotechnology and the Islamic religion; and Dr. Antonio A. Alfonso of PhilRice on biotechnology tools to enhance rice production.

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed at the close of the session among the partners and organizers that include the DAF Secretary Prof. Tindick, Dr. Aldemita, (on behalf of the DA PIU), Mr. Joel Paredes of the Biotechnology for Life, Media and Advocacy Center, Prof.  Daud Lagasi, Research Center Director of DAF, and Mr. Godfrey Ramon of the Biotechnology Coalition of the Philippines. The MOU resolved that advocacy and promotion activities on biotechnology in the region be conducted with the local executives taking the lead role in the active participation of various government and private sector groups.

For details on the seminar, contact knowledge.center@isaaa.org