On August 19, 2024, Dr. Sadre Alam, Commercial Representative of the Embassy of India in Manila, paid a courtesy visit to the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
Dr. Alam was accompanied by Attaché Puran Prakash Singh and Marketing Assistant Theo Ray Puljanan at the Economic and Commerce Wing, Embassy of India in Manila. The Indian delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with DOST-PCAARRD key officials led by Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora, to explore potential areas of partnership and collaborative opportunities, particularly in the seaweed sector. Recognizing its potential to contribute to economic growth, food security, and environmental sustainability, both parties explored ways to strengthen their collaboration.
Representing DOST-PCAARRD during the visit were officials from the Marine Resources Research Division (MRRD), including Director Mari-Ann M. Acedera, Assistant Director Ma. Adela C. Corpuz, Senior Science Research Specialist Eileen M. Redera, and Science Research Specialist Jaypee G. Trinidad. Also present were Policy Coordination and Monitoring Division (PCMD) Director Lilian G. Bondoc, members of the PCMD Secretariat, and Officer-in-Charge Fezoil Luz C. Decena of the Office of the Executive Director for Administration, Resource Management, and Support Services (OED-ARMSS).
Possible areas and modes of cooperation discussed during the visit include research and development, technology transfer and commercialization, and capacity building programs. As a significant outcome of the visit, a follow-up meeting was agreed upon, involving representatives from India’s Marine Product Exports Development Authority (MPEDA) and its research and development arm, the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Agriculture. Also expected to participate are officials from the Ministries of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Commerce and Industry in India, along with key stakeholders from the Philippines led by DOST-PCAARRD.
Dr. Ebora expressed optimism about the partnership, highlighting the potential for the Philippines and India to create a synergistic relationship that could lead to substantial advancements in seaweed cultivation, processing, and commercialization. This collaboration could open new doors for both countries, particularly in enhancing our capabilities in the seaweed industry, which is a vital component of the Philippines’ blue economy.
Dr. Alam, for his part, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in tackling global challenges and fostering innovation. “India is keen to work with the Philippines in areas where our countries can mutually benefit, and the seaweed sector presents an excellent opportunity for such collaboration,” he noted.
This visit signifies an important move towards deepening the relationship between the Philippines and India, particularly in the agricultural and aquatic resource development area. With the renewal of the Philippines-India Programme of Cooperation, DOST-PCAARRD and the Indian Embassy in Manila are committed to furthering these discussions and translating them into projects that will drive innovation and growth in the seaweed industry.