The organizing team and plenary speakers during the Day 1 of the GAME Conference 2024. (Image credit: Maria Alexia R. Belarmino, Jhoanna Imee L. Tandang, and Tessa Lyrene Lantican, SERD, DOST-PCAARRD)
The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) funded the 4th Global Agribusiness Management and Entrepreneurship (GAME) Conference and Expo held on October 24–25, 2024 at the Conrad Hotel Manila and SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
Organized by the Department of Agribusiness Management and Entrepreneurship (DAME) of University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), the conference gathered 238 onsite attendees from diverse sectors including academicians, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and representatives from various industries, and international organizations. Meanwhile, its livestream garnered a total reach of 6,877 viewers. The Expo, on the other hand, welcomed a total of 342 participants.
Themed, “The NOW, the NEW, and the NEXT of Global Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship,” the event highlighted the current status, new breakthroughs, and emerging opportunities p in AANR research and development. Moreover, GAME aimed to widen the participants’ knowledge of opportunities and challenges presented by the NOW, the NEW, and the NEXT in global agribusiness and entrepreneurship.
DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora highlighted the importance of inclusive and innovative agribusiness practices in addressing global challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and food insecurity. He further emphasized in his opening remarks that collective efforts and collaboration will be crucial in shaping a sustainable future where agriculture not only thrives, but also restores the environment.
“The path ahead will not be without challenges but it is also filled with extraordinary opportunities. As we navigate The Now, drive The New, and imagine The Next, let us do so with a shared vision—a vision that places agriculture at the heart of sustainability and equity for all. Let us forge new pathways for co-creation bringing together the insights of science with the ingenuity of entrepreneurship and the wisdom of local farmers,” said Dr. Ebora.
The conference featured three thematic presentations: "The Now," "The New," and "The Next." "The Now" focused on climate-resilience strategies and growth frameworks for agribusiness in the Asia-Pacific region. Presentations by Dr. Dina Umali-Deininger of the World Bank and Dr. Robin Roberts of Griffith University highlighted the economic potential of sustainable practices and innovation.
"The NEW" highlighted agripreneurship and the importance of youth engagement and regeneration of the agricultural workforce as presented by Dr. Chien-wen Mark Shen from Taiwan’s National Central University and Dr. Yusman Syaukat of Bogor Agricultural University.
Lastly, "The NEXT" delved into remote sensing technology for smallholder farmers and advanced agribusiness practices, featuring Dr. Ammar Abdul Aziz from the University of Queensland and Dr. Arsenio Barcelona of Harbest Agribusiness.
In addition to the thematic presentations, three panel discussions explored key issues in agribusiness. First is on science and technology innovations in agribusiness, demonstrating how digital transformation can help small and medium enterprises compete globally. The second discussion examined food security and sustainability, exploring policies and technologies to improve resilience among smallholder farmers. The third panel, composed of leading educators, analyzed the future of agribusiness education, placing emphasis on curriculum innovations that integrate digital technologies, sustainable practices, and business management skills to meet emerging industry needs.
DOST-PCAARRD, through its Socio-Economics Research Division (SERD), chaired two parallel sessions presenting key findings of PCAARRD-funded and monitored projects on agribusiness and entrepreneurship. The morning session showcased seven projects covering various topics including cacao traceability, industry 4.0 adoption, coffee value chain, seaweed and sweetpotato enterprises, and agribusiness hubs. Meanwhile, the afternoon session featured four presentations on innovative approaches within regional Agri-aqua Technology Business Incubators (ATBIs) through the Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (RAISE) Program and the development of agri-entrepreneurship in different regions.
The conference concluded with a call for enhanced policy support, increased youth engagement, and continuous curriculum development to build a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient agribusiness sector.
GAME Expo featured numerous exhibitors, technology pitches, and panel discussions. It brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to foster networking and collaboration. The event also allowed exhibitors to market and sell their agri-aqua products and innovations throughout the two-day program.
Also featured are panel discussions aligned with the program’s overarching theme, “NOW, NEW, and NEXT.” These highlighted the value of partnerships and new business models, and emphasized the role of digital and e-commerce domains in improving agricultural productivity and expanding market access. Additionally, the expo spotlighted innovators nationwide through the Technology Pitching Competition that showcased innovations ranging from fintech to blockchain technology.
Exhibitor from the Socio-economic Development Program Multipurpose Cooperative (SEDP MPC). (Image credit: Maria Alexia R. Belarmino, Jhoanna Imee L. Tandang, and Tessa Lyrene Lantican, SERD, DOST-PCAARRD)
Exhibitors included DOST-PCAARRD-supported clients and cooperators such as the Socio-economic Development Program Multipurpose Cooperative (SEDP MPC) and Better World Tondo along with various startups backed by the Council including the Algacon Aquafeed, ELDICA Seafood Processing, and Blitzkrieg Animal Diagnostic Center.
The activity served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collaboration. It hoped to address critical challenges and opportunities in global agribusiness and entrepreneurship. By supporting this triennial event, the Council reaffirms its mandate to advance the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sector through science, technology, and innovation.
As DOST-PCAARRD continues to fund and facilitate initiatives that promote sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience, it remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering stakeholders, uplifting smallholder farmers, and enhancing the competitiveness of the Philippine AANR industry globally.