COURTESY: BOI
High-tech agriculture is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day revolution sweeping across the Philippines. The Trade and Industry Development (TID) Talks session on November 25, 2023, highlighted this transformative potential, gathering experts and stakeholders at the Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Education Center. Let’s dive into the discussions and explore how high-tech agriculture is poised to reshape the nation’s agricultural landscape.
In her opening remarks, Executive Director Ma. Corazon Halili-Dichosa of the BOI’s Industry Development Services emphasized the agribusiness sector as the backbone of the Philippine economy. She pointed out that, in 2023, agriculture, fishery, and forestry accounted for 9% of the country's GDP. When you throw in food and beverage manufacturing, that figure jumps to a whopping 19%. Clearly, agriculture isn't just a part of the economy—it’s a major player.
The transition to high-tech agriculture could be the game-changer the sector needs. Through more aggressive industry development and investment promotions, the Philippines could leapfrog some of the woes outlined in the Philippine Development Plan. This shift is not just about increasing productivity; it's about sustainability and significant contributions to economic growth.
Dr. Honorario C. Flameño, Director of the DA Information and Communications Technology Service, provided a detailed overview of the DA’s framework for policies and programs aimed at promoting high-tech agriculture. His presentation was a deep dive into precision farming, digital agriculture tools, and sustainable practices. It was all about boosting production while keeping environmental impacts in check.
Dr. Flameño's insights were clear: technology is the key to upgrading existing agricultural value chains. By integrating modern technologies, farmers’ incomes can increase, and the sector can become more competitive on a global scale. This isn't just about keeping up with the Joneses; it's about leading the charge towards a more sustainable future.
Following Dr. Flameño, Ms. Maria Teresa L. De Guzman from the Department of Science and Technology shared her insights on advancing research and development for high-tech agriculture. According to her, innovation is crucial to tackling challenges like climate change, population growth, and food security. The DOST-PCAARRD has a roadmap for high-tech agriculture, but it’s clear that it needs some fine-tuning.
Ms. De Guzman highlighted ongoing projects aimed at improving productivity and sustainability. These initiatives are designed to leverage technological advancements, ensuring that the Philippines is not just keeping pace but setting the standard. This is a call to action for all stakeholders to foster innovation and collaboration.
The session also shed light on international cooperation. Mr. Lev Nikko Macalintal, Agricultural Attaché in Seoul, discussed South Korea’s agricultural innovations, offering valuable lessons for the Philippines. South Korea’s partnership with the DA is already pushing for high-tech agri, showing how international collaboration can accelerate development.
Mr. Joseph C. Pacon’s presentation on the Philippine Rural Development Project, in partnership with the World Bank, highlighted the success of foreign-assisted projects. These collaborations have been instrumental in bringing technology closer to farmers and fisherfolk, demonstrating how modern tech can drive rural development.
The event wasn’t all about government and international partnerships. Representatives from companies like CAWIL AI and Agriserna Tech Solutions Inc. showcased their high-tech agricultural solutions. Their success stories underscored the critical role of private sector innovation and the importance of responsive policies and incentives for fostering growth.
The BOI's discussion on fiscal incentives under the CREATE MORE Act was a nod to the potential for private investment in high-tech agriculture. These incentives are designed to attract more players into this burgeoning field, ensuring that the Philippines remains at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
The TID Talks session concluded with a call for continued collaboration. A harmonized high-tech agriculture development framework is essential to guide initiatives across government agencies and the industry. The convergence of ideas and efforts is crucial for accelerating the development of high-tech agriculture in the Philippines.
In conclusion, high-tech agriculture represents a promising future for the Philippines. By embracing innovation, fostering collaboration, and leveraging both local and international expertise, the nation can transform its agricultural sector into a powerhouse of productivity and sustainability. The journey has only just begun, and the opportunities are as vast as the fields themselves.
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