The Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) celebrates its 94th year of pioneering advancements and significant contributions to the Philippine agricultural landscape on January 25, 2024, with a theme of “Modernisasyon sa Paghahalaman, Susi sa Masaganang Kinabukasan.”
The event, held at the DA-BPI headquarters in Malate, Manila, brought together government officials from different departments, diplomatic corps, agricultural experts, farmers, partners from the private sector, and enthusiasts to commemorate nearly a century of dedicated service in sustainable agriculture and ensuring food security in the country.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr., noted the vital role of the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) in the bid of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., to boost food production and modernize the country’s agriculture sector.
In his message, he highlighted the agency’s contributions to upgrading agricultural practices, including providing better seeds and planting materials, innovating farming technologies, controlling plant pests and using biological control agents, promoting safe and sustainable crop production, and licensing and accrediting private sector partners for development.
“For nearly a century, DA-BPI has been at the forefront of agricultural innovation, stewardship, and progress in our nation. We are here to celebrate not just the longevity of this institution but also the milestones, advancements, and commitment it has shown towards the modernization of agricultural practices in our country,” said Secretary Tiu Laurel.
Gerald Glenn F. Panganiban Ph.D., the Director of the Bureau of Plant Industry, shared insights into the bureau’s accomplishments over the past year and outlined strategic plans for the future.
“We are pushing for the modernization of our crop farming practices to increase the country’s food production. Our commitment to modernization has translated into tangible achievements in our pursuit of development and excellence,” Panganiban shared.
He stressed the need for collaborative efforts between the government, industry players, and farmers to implement modern farming practices effectively.
“Looking ahead, we anticipate future collaborations with local and international organizations. These collaborations will create more opportunities for innovation, knowledge exchange, and technological advancements that will shape the future of Philippine agriculture,” he added.
Director Panganiban also emphasized the impact of the bilateral relationships between the Philippines and BPI’s partner market export countries with the export of durian to China, fresh Hass avocado to South Korea, mangoes to Australia, and pili nuts to Germany.
A Legacy of Innovation
Established in 1930, DA-BPI was founded with an important mission: to drive agricultural progress through research and development, and oversee the plant industry of the country.
Since its early days of addressing its current focus on modernization and technological advancements, the DA-BPI has consistently adapted to the needs of Filipino farmers and the challenges facing the agriculture sector.
The Bureau has evolved over the years, embracing a holistic approach, offering a wide array of services that encompass the areas of research and development, production support and regulatory services.
Significant contributions
Under the leadership of Director Gerald Glenn Panganiban Ph.D., and Assistant Directors Herminigilda A. Gabertan Ph.D., for Research, Development, and Production Support Services and Ruel C. Gesmundo for Regulatory Services, DA-BPI has achieved the following significant milestones:
With the mandate to ensure the availability of high-quality seeds and planting materials, DA- BPI produced 191,015 kg and distributed 190,359 kg of high-quality seeds for 2023. The Bureau also preempts the adverse effects of erratic climatic conditions on farmers by securing seed reserves and having buffer stocks of a total of 236,007.20 kg of seeds.
DA-BPI has registered 31 crop varieties with superior yield and agronomic characteristics and protected 44 varieties.
As a hub for innovation, DA-BPI embraces modern technologies through the provision of infrastructure and machinery necessary to boost food production. It aims to empower farmers to integrate modern tools into their traditional farming methods, enhancing overall efficiency. To set an example, the Bureau is producing 16-20 kg/sq.m. of leafy vegetables from the productive area within the institution through indoor cultivation.
DA-BPI reported to have lowered Fall Armyworm infestations from a high of 20,759.04 ha (0.81%) in 2020 to 13,667.83 ha (0.54%) in 2023 for approximately 2.5 M ha of corn production area. The figure shows a decrease in infestation rates of 0.27%. This year and in the coming days, the Bureau will be implementing pest management as support for the mango industry.
In marking its 94th year of existence, the Bureau of Plant Industry is positioned to sustain its efforts in ensuring that the Philippine agriculture sector is capable of withstanding challenges and contributing to the nation’s food security and economic development.