In a consultative meeting held today, the Executive Director of the Philippine Rubber Research Institute (PRRI), Dr. Cheryl L. Eusala, and the National Program Director of the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) came together to discuss the potential transfer of funds from HVCDP to the regular fund of PRRI. The transfer of funds is subject to the approval of the program and aims to enhance the support for rubber-related interventions in the country.
This significant meeting followed the recently concluded 3rd Cluster of the Series of Technical Review Workshops (TRW) for the FY 2024 Plan and Budget Proposals held last April 11-14, 2023. During this workshop, it was proposed that the appropriation for rubber-related interventions under HVCDP be transferred to PRRI. The proposal aligns with the general instructions outlined in the Memorandum issued by Senior Undersecretary Domingo F. Panganiban on April 20, 2023.
Director Panganiban, who serves as both the HVCDP National Director and the Executive Director of the Bureau of Plant Industry, expressed his agreement with the proposal. Accordingly, HVCDP will now transfer its rubber-related interventions to PRRI for FY 2024, amounting to approximately 20 million pesos. This fund transfer aims to further strengthen the research and development efforts in the rubber industry.
Aside from discussing the fund transfer, Director Eusala also took the opportunity to consult with Director Panganiban regarding the implementation of biosecurity measures to combat the emerging Pestalotiopsis threat in the rubber industry. In light of this concern, Director Eusala requested the conduct of deputization training for PRRI and Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) who will be deployed to quarantine posts. This measure aims to bolster the biosecurity measures of PRRI and BPI against the Pestalotiopsis threat.
Additionally, both directors discussed the formulation of an administrative order on quarantine guidelines for the management of pestalotiopsis disease in rubber. This administrative order will provide a framework for preventing the spread of the disease and protecting the country’s rubber industry from potential losses.
The consultative meeting between PRRI Executive Director Dr. Cheryl L. Eusala and HVCDP National Program Director Glenn Panganiban reflects the commitment of both organizations to collaborate and strengthen the rubber industry in the Philippines. The proposed fund transfer and the establishment of biosecurity measures demonstrate their dedication to ensuring the growth and sustainability of the industry.
With the transfer of funds and the implementation of robust biosecurity measures, the Philippine Rubber Research Institute and the High Value Crops Development Program aim to foster innovation, research, and development, ensuring the continued success of the country’s rubber industry in the years to come.
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