The DA-BAR earned a Certificate of Recognition for its unwavering partnership and support to the DA-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice), for actively advancing national program on rice research for development (R4D) and extension. DA-BAR OIC Director Joell H. Lales accepted the plaque during the 37th Ugnay Palay National R4D Conference held in Nueva Ecija on November 25–27, 2025.
The award recognized the bureau’s vital role in strengthening inter-agency collaboration, which has contributed to the effective implementation of policies and initiatives aimed at improving the country’s rice sector and supporting Filipino farmers.
In his testimonial message, Lales emphasized that the DA-BAR and DA-PhilRice partnership significantly advanced rice research for development nationwide. He stressed that their collaboration draws its true inspiration from a shared vision, transcending the implemented projects and developed technologies. “It is the belief that when we work together, we can uplift the lives of our farmers, strengthen our rice industry, and secure a better future for Filipino families,” he said.
Many technologies developed and implemented by PhilRice, funded by the DA National Rice Program through DA-BAR, are now widely used. Farmers and implementers are widely adopting these projects for the significant benefits they deliver.
These innovations include vital decision support tools for the rice industry, such the Philippine Rice Information System—Southeast Asia's first satellite-based rice monitoring system, and the Rice Seed Information System—a digital platform that uses ICT tools to efficiently manage and share rice seed data in collaboration with industry players.
DA-PhilRice also implemented digital agriculture platforms that provide personalized farm management advice. These include the Rice Crop Manager Advisory Service and the Pest Risk Identification and Management, helping farmers boost productivity and profitability.
In terms of mechanization, the Multi-Purpose (MP) Seeder is the dry direct-seeding machine developed specifically for rainfed Philippine areas. It supports farmers in optimizing crop establishment. As of writing five manufacturers of MP Seeder are currently operating across the country.
Other key programs focus on capacity building and enterprise development. The Rice Business Innovations Systems Program transforms small-scale farming into profitable enterprises by empowering farmers as agripreneurs. Additionally, the Digital Agriculture Course trains farmers on modern, technology-driven farming practices.
DA-PhilRice continues to collaborate with partners like the International Rice Research Institute and the University of the Philippines Los Baños on future innovations, including the OneRicePH technologies.
The 37th Ugnay Palay National Rice R4D Conference also marked DA-PhilRice’s 40th anniversary. The annual event gathered researchers, policymakers, farmers, youth leaders, and industry partners to reflect on the four decades of rice innovation and explore future solutions for rice research, development, and extension.