MMSU promotes climate resilient rice varieties

Dr. Shirley Agrupis, MMSU President leads the farmers' field day in Batac City. (MMSU Research Directorate)

Staff reporter

BATAC CITY—The state-run Mariano Marcos State University is encouraging farmers to plant new climate resilient rice varieties to increase their productivity.

This planting season, MMSU in collaboration with the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) set up a 1,600-square meter demo farm showcasing its 14 varieties that are resilient to prolonged drought or wet season.

“But no matter how good the variety is or no matter how advance the technology to improve rice productivity in the country, it is nothing without your heart in managing the rice field. Like a person, you should talk to your plants,” MMSU president Dr. Shirley Agrupis said during a farmer’s field day held at the demonstration site.

Dubbed as the “President’s farm”, the program featuring climate resilient crops hopes to inspire farmers to adopt new technologies. Dr. Santiago Obien, a former president of MMSU who collected the 14 varieties, initiated the program.

The President’s farm is open to all stakeholders where they can see for themselves the different characteristics of the selected 14 rice varieties.

“With the advancement of science and technology, agriculture is no longer a least choice but a primary choice,” said Ms. Agrupis as she lauded agriculture students for pursuing the subject which will ensure the sustainable development of the industry.

“I hope the field day will not just be an ordinary field day but something you will nurture in your hearts,” Ms. Agrupis added.

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