Forum co-convenors recognized DOST-PCAARRD, the funding agency of the forum (from left to right): Prof. Melissa Grace C. Olit, PSU Income Generating Projects Director; Dr. Rodmyr F. Datoon, UPLB-ASI-CAFS Director, Dr. Melvin B. Carlos, DOST-PCAARRD Deputy Executive Director for ARMSS; and Dr. Ramon M. Docto, PSU President. (Image credit: PSU Media Hub and Project Team)
The first National Forum on Agricultural Development & Natural Resource Management for Small Islands in the Philippines, held from September 26 to 28, 2024, successfully brought together experts and stakeholders who shared experiences, advanced research, and developed science-based solutions to small islands’ unique challenges.
As an archipelagic nation, the Philippines faces unique challenges in managing its small islands, which are highly vulnerable to natural hazards and climate change. These islands, often home to some of the country's poorest communities, rely heavily on mainland food imports and have limited infrastructure. Despite their agricultural potential, there is a significant lack of research on small island development, highlighting the importance of focused forums and initiatives to address their specific needs.
The three-day event opened opportunities for future collaboration in sustainable agriculture and resource management with a vision to enhance the resilience and economic viability of small island communities across the country. The conduct of the forum was funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) and organized by the Agricultural Systems Institute (ASI) of the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) in partnership with Palawan State University (PSU).
Day 1 of the forum, held at the Palawan State University (PSU) Amphitheater, drew a turnout of 576 onsite participants and 1,800 virtual attendees from State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies (NGAs), and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs). The event opened with welcome messages from distinguished officials – PSU President Ramon M. Docto and DOST-PCAARRD Deputy Executive Director for Administration, Resource Management and Support Services Melvin B. Carlos. Their remarks highlighted the importance of addressing the pressing challenges in small island agriculture, particularly in light of climate change and limited resources.
Dr. Melvin B. Carlos, Deputy Executive Director for ARMSS of DOST-PCAARRD delivered his welcoming message during the first day of the of the 1st National Forum on Agricultural Development & Natural Resource Management for Small Islands in the Philippines at PSU Amphitheater. (Image credit: PSU Media Hub and Project Team)
In her keynote address, PSU Regent and Trustee of Friends of Tubbataha Ms. Marvi R. Trudeau emphasized the need for sustainable development in small islands, noting that agricultural expansion must be balanced with natural resource conservation to secure the future of these vulnerable ecosystems.
Experts from leading academic institutions and government agencies presented various topics critical to small island sustainability. Discussions covered Resource Accounting, the Blue Economy, Livestock Raising, and Sustainable Energy, offering practical strategies for improving resource management and strengthening economic growth in small island communities.
A key outcome of the forum was the formation of collaborative partnerships between participants, who agreed on the importance of continued research and the implementation of practical, science-based solutions tailored to the specific needs of small islands. Presenters and participants identified future initiatives, including improving agricultural practices, managing natural resources more effectively, and integrating renewable energy sources.
On day 2, a workshop was held at Hue Hotels and Resorts, where 70 onsite and eight online participants explored further issues surrounding small islands. Stakeholders and experts worked together to define small islands within the Philippines' unique geographic landscape and advance research on sustainable agriculture and resource management. They also discussed research gaps and proposed science-based solutions to enhance the long-term resilience of small island ecosystems, all of which contributed to the development of an R&D agenda for small islands in the Philippines.
Day 3 capped off the event with a cultural tour, which provided participants with an immersive experience of Puerto Princesa’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Highlights included visits to the Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden, Binua’tan Creations Weaving Center, and the Gintong Butil Agri Farm, demonstrating the potential of sustainable agriculture and eco-tourism in promoting conservation and livelihood opportunities for small island communities.
Participants expressed optimism for the future, acknowledging the critical role of collaboration between academic institutions, government agencies, and local communities in promoting sustainable agriculture and resource management. With the foundations laid by this forum, the Philippines is better equipped to tackle the unique challenges faced by its small islands, ensuring their long-term sustainability and resilience.
This forum is part of the project, "Developing a Framework on Co-Production for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources (AANR) Projects," led by Dr. Rodmyr F. Datoon of ASI-UPLB. The project aims to provide a platform for sharing knowledge and advancing research on science-based solutions for sustainable agriculture and natural resource management in small islands.