Rice and bamboo research partnership opportunities were discussed during the recent visit of Chinese delegates to the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
The Chinese delegates were from the Jiangxi Department of Science and Technology (JDST) and the Jiangxi Academy of Forestry (JAF).
Hosted by DOST-PCAARRD on September 19, 2023, the visit aimed to foster knowledge exchange, strengthen partnership, and explore collaborative opportunities between the Republic of the Philippines and the People's Republic of China in the field of rice and bamboo research.
The delegation was led by Deputy Director General Xi Hong of JDST. With him were JDST Deputy Director Lan Mingxue and JAF Vice President Huang Hui. They also attended the 16th Protocol of the DOST-China Joint Commission Meeting on Science and Technology (JCMST) held on September 18.
Dr. Melvin B. Carlos, Deputy Executive Director for Administration, Resource Management, and Support Services of DOST-PCAARRD, warmly welcomed the Chinese delegates during the visit. In his address, Dr. Carlos highlighted the historical cooperation between the Philippines and China, which started in 1978, that has resulted in numerous collaborative initiatives.
One of the significant outcomes of this cooperation was the signing of agreements in September 2021 for joint programs on bamboo research and rice technology. These initiatives mark a step forward in the collaboration between DOST-PCAARRD and JAF and the Jiangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences (JxAAS).
As part of the signed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI) and JAF on the Establishment of the Philippines-China Joint Bamboo R&D Laboratory, DOST-PCAARRD has committed to fund three joint research projects. This further cements the partnership's dedication to advancing bamboo-related industries in both nations.
“Rest assured of DOST-PCAARRD’s continued support of the R&D activities that will be implemented in this joint laboratory. Let us embark on this journey together, hand in hand, and shape a brighter future through bamboo,” said Dr. Carlos.
In response, Deputy Director General Xi Hong also expressed their eagerness to deepen collaboration with DOST-PCAARRD and DOST-FPRDI and contribute to the advancement of the Philippines’ rice and bamboo industry. He also conveyed their appreciation for the warm hospitality and valuable insights gained during the visit.
The visit of the Chinese delegation reflects the Philippines' and China's shared commitment to leveraging science and technology to achieve productivity, growth, and economic transformation. DOST-PCAARRD looks forward to fruitful discussions and future cooperation between the Philippines and China, and in fostering innovation and sustainability in the rice and bamboo industry.