A bilateral cooperation between Thailand and the Philippines was formalized during a Scientific Visit and Working Group Meeting on Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) in Bangkok, Thailand on January 21, 2025.
Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) and the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR) is set to boost scientific collaboration that will strengthen innovation, knowledge-sharing, and technological advancements in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sector.
The MOU provides the collaborative framework between DOST-PCAARRD and TISTR in advancing AANR research and development (R&D). They will work together in key areas of innovation including organic fertilizer production, tissue culture and varietal improvement, plant pest management, and post-harvest technologies. Both countries will benefit through enhanced expertise, resource-sharing, and collaborative solutions.
DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora and TISTR Governor Weerachai Arjharn served as signatories to the agreement, marking a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral cooperation in STI between the two countries.
The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Leah J. Buendia, and Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI).
The two institutions have agreed on multiple modes of cooperation, such as joint R&D projects, exchange of scientists, experts, researchers, and DOST-PCAARRD technical staff for studies, observations, and training, exchange of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials, scientific publications, and other academic resources, organization of joint meetings, conferences, symposia, and workshops, and other mutually agreed-upon activities.
By reinforcing cooperation in STI, the MOU reflects the shared commitment of the Philippines and Thailand to sustainable development, agricultural resilience, and food security in the region.