๐๐๐ป๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐ต, ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฏ | ๐ฐ๐๐๐, ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐บ๐๐๐๐๐๐ – The PCAF National Sectoral Committee on High Value Crops – Rubber convened rubber stakeholders from major rubber-producing provinces today for its highly anticipated 2nd Quarter Meeting, bringing together over 50 stakeholders both onsite and online. The meeting, facilitated by the Philippine Council of Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF) in Agusan del Sur, served as a platform for fruitful discussions and collaborative strategies aimed at advancing the rubber industry and promoting sustainable practices.
Esteemed experts, industry leaders, and representatives from various sectors involved in rubber cultivation participated in the onsite and virtual meeting. The attendees included rubber farmers, processors, researchers, policymakers, and other key stakeholders who are committed to driving positive change within the industry.
One of the primary focuses of the meeting was addressing the urgent issue of Pestalotiopsis Leaf Fall Disease (PLFD), which poses a significant threat to rubber plantations across the country. Executive Director Cheryl Eusala emphasized the importance of concerted efforts in combating this disease, acknowledging its widespread impact on the livelihoods of smallholder rubber producers and processors.
The meeting was presided by Mr. Jack Sandique, NBPC-HV Rubber Chairperson, and participants were engaged in vibrant discussions and shared invaluable insights and experiences in rubber cultivation. The exchange of knowledge and ideas laid the groundwork for collaborative initiatives aimed at boosting productivity, improving crop quality, and implementing sustainable practices.
Distinguished industry experts delivered notable presentations, shedding light on innovative technologies, genetic resources, and crop management techniques that hold promise for addressing the challenges faced by rubber farmers. Attendees eagerly absorbed this valuable information, recognizing its potential to significantly transform the rubber industry and enhance the economic well-being of rural communities dependent on rubber cultivation.
As the meeting drew to a close, stakeholders expressed their enthusiasm for the collaborative efforts and renewed commitment to transforming the rubber industry into a sustainable and thriving sector. The active participation and dedication displayed by the attendees showcased their shared vision for a vibrant future where rubber cultivation serves as a catalyst for rural development and economic empowerment.
Looking ahead, the PCAF National Sectoral Committee on High Value Crops – Rubber aims to translate the discussions and outcomes of this meeting into actionable steps. Through continued collaboration, research, and the implementation of sustainable practices, the committee strives to drive innovation, enhance productivity, and overcome the challenges faced by rubber farmers nationwide.
Furthermore, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has assured specific allocations for implementing the action plans and programs identified in the roadmap, with inclusion in the Public Budget Program (PBP) for 2024. The Department of Agriculture – High-Value Crops Development Program (DA-HVCDP) reiterated the submission of the format letter and the identification of cooperative beneficiaries regarding the request for a backhoe in the DA budget.
During the meeting, a resolution was recommended to reiterate the request for the procurement of a backhoe/excavator for Agusan Del Sur and North Cotabato. The Department of Agriculture – Development, Law, and Legislation Division (DA-DLLI) committed to providing continuous updates on the status of House Bill No. 2331 and Senate Bill No. 606 to the committee.
Additionally, the DA-PRRI requested a copy of the full research report conducted on RRIM 2000 series clones from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)/DTI for further analysis and recommendations.
To address the Pestalotiopsis disease, a suggestion was made to conduct benchmarking activities with other countries facing similar challenges.
The PCAF National Sectoral Committee on High Value Crops – Rubber and all participants expressed their gratitude to everyone who attended and actively contributed to the success of the meeting. The demonstrated commitment by these stakeholders is a testament to their unwavering dedication to the growth and sustainability of the rubber industry.
– ๐ต๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ญ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐
