
PRRI is a staff Bureau of the Department of Agriculture (DA) created through Republic Act 10089 or the PRRI Act of 2010 that is mandated to strengthen the research and development on rubber and other aspects of the industry, in order to increase rubber production and improve the quality of life of people in the rural communities that depend on this industry.
Functions based on RA 10089ℹ️
The PRRI shall have the following powers and functions:
(a) Propagate and promote the planting, maintenance, as well as wise utilization of rubber trees as source of latex and finished rubber products;
(b) Enable rubber producers and processors, especially smallholders, to have access to quality rubber tree seedlings, modern production techniques and other support services from production to marketing of rubber produce;
(c) Undertake training and capacity-building programs for rubber producers, processors and cooperatives in order to increase production of quality rubber and raise level of income especially of poor smallholders;
(d) Aid in the establishment of village-based rubber enterprises to generate livelihood opportunities and improve general well-being of the large percentage of the workforce in agricultural communities;
(e) Promote cooperative development among smallholders and provide them access to resources, technological know-how, as well as decision-making processes for the enhancement of their rubber enterprises and the protection of their welfare;
(f) Initiate research and development projects on rubber in order to address technology and policy gaps in promoting a robust rubber industry, ensuring standard in production and meeting demands for quality rubber in both domestic and international trade; and
(g) Enter into memoranda of agreement and receive grants from local and foreign funding agencies through the DA upon the recommendation of the PRRI Advisory Board; or through the respective academic boards of satellite units housed in concerned state universities and colleges upon the recommendation of the PRRI Advisory Board.
Extension Support, Education, and Training Services (ESETS)
This program equips farmers with knowledge on improved rubber production technologies to enhance yield and quality. PRRI also conducts a Training of Trainers (TOT) Program for agricultural extension workers, enabling them to effectively transfer their learnings to their respective Local Government Units (LGUs) and farmer communities, ensuring wider adoption of best practices in rubber farming.
Research for Development on Rubber (R4D)
The Research for Development (R4D) program focuses on generating science-based solutions to improve rubber production, processing, and overall industry competitiveness. PRRI conducts studies on high-yielding rubber clones, disease management, and sustainable farming techniques to enhance productivity and resilience. Research outputs are translated into practical applications that benefit rubber farmers, processors, and stakeholders nationwide.