Philippine International Convention Center, Pasay City
October 16, 2023

“This congress comes at an opportune time for us to compare and re-evaluate policies, discuss ideas for enhancing global rice value chains, and introduce better practices and technologies,” remarked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as he graced the opening of the three-day event of the 6th International Congress 2023 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.

The President expressed appreciation to the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) for bringing progress and making a positive impact in reducing poverty and hunger through rice science in the country, mentioning the success of the first five (5) installments of the congress.

As the concurrent Secretary of the Department of Agriculture (DA), he urged all the government agencies and private sectors to continue collaborating with the IRRI and its partners in identifying creative solutions and mechanisms for a more robust rice industry — serving as the government’s top priority.

“Your eager participation will surely inspire the rest of society and the entire global community to fortify our efforts for food security across the region and the world,” he added.

Furthermore, the Chief Executive reaffirmed the Administration’s strong commitment to strengthen the agricultural value chain by ensuring the growth of the rice industry in the country, as well as promoting the welfare of farmers and consumers alike.

“And we will remain steadfast in our efforts to modernize the agriculture sector through open dialogue and consultations with our farmers and agriculture experts,” the President concluded in his message.

IRRI is an independent, nonprofit research and educational institute founded by the Ford and Rockefeller foundations with support from the Philippine government. It has a special relationship with the Philippines, as the country has been its home since the Institute’s founding in 1960.

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