KOICA, UPLB, and IRRI came together to showcase how global partnerships and emerging omics technologies are transforming agri-food systems across Asia and beyond at the 4th KOICA-UPLB-IRRI International Conference.

The event convened scientists, scholars, and development partners to explore how genomics and bioinformatics address pressing challenges in food security, environmental sustainability, and rural livelihoods.

“KOICA believes that science and innovation are key drivers of modernization. Through the establishment of the state-of-the-art Agricultural Genomics Research Center (AGRC), supported by academic partnerships, scholarships, and training programs, genome-based research and development capabilities will be significantly strengthened,” said KOICA Philippines Country Director Jung Youngsun.

The AGRC, located at UPLB, is the Philippines’ first national omics research center. Built through the KOICA-UPLB-IRRI partnership with support from national agencies, AGRC features cutting-edge infrastructure for genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics research on crops, livestock, and microorganisms.

“More than just a facility, the center is a hub for shared learning. Already, over 150 scientists and regulators have completed hands-on training modules in genomics, biosafety, and data analytics. Through its open-access model, state universities, DA agencies, and private-sector partners can all access the same advanced tools, accelerating national scientific progress,” said IRRI Director General Dr. Yvonne Pinto.

Beyond the facility, IRRI integrates genomics with speed breeding and phenomics platforms to shorten the time required to develop improved crop varieties. This accelerates the delivery of drought-tolerant, flood-resilient, and nutrient-rich rice to farmers.

“IRRI is committed to faster and more reliable innovation. This once-impossible feat will pave the way for a more resilient and efficient agricultural system, not just for the Philippines, but for the entire region,” Dr. Pinto added.

In her keynote address, Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) Director Dr. Mercedita Sombilla stressed the urgency of strengthening science-based solutions and regional collaboration to reverse Southeast Asia’s slowing agricultural growth.

“Any discussion and action concerning the agricultural sector needs to have a more expansive view, acknowledging that agricultural transformation involves the entire economy, not just agriculture alone,” said Dr. Sombilla.

She also emphasized the need for productivity growth, technology adoption, policy reform, and evidence-based research to close structural gaps, particularly in the Philippines.

The Korea-Philippine Omics Partnership Network (KPOP-Net) serves as a collaborative platform to promote research exchange, curriculum development, and technology adoption across Korean and Philippine institutions. During the conference, member universities such as Mariano Marcos State University, Central Luzon State University, Visayas State University, and Central Mindanao University shared how they are applying genomics and biotechnology in both academic and field settings.

Panel discussions explored how investments in human capital, institutional linkages, and cutting-edge research can drive long-term agricultural transformation. Participants agreed capacity building remains key to creating resilient food systems.

Currently, the partnership supports 15 UPLB master’s students hosted at IRRI, as well as 10 PhD students enrolled in Korean universities through a three-year Korea–two-year Philippines sandwich program facilitated by IRRI.

“It is vital that we continue to invest in pioneering scientific and technological fields such as agricultural genomics. This field holds immense promise in developing climate-resilient crops, improving yields, and enhancing nutritional value, all while promoting sustainability and preserving biodiversity,” said UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose V. Camacho Jr.

Dr. Jae Sung Lee, IRRI-based project leader of the KOICA-UPLB-IRRI initiative, emphasized the AGRC’s long-term potential and the value of continued investment in the center and its people.

“This project stands out for its high-impact contributions in both upstream research and delivering tangible breeding products to farmers. Our faculty, after completing their Ph.D. training in Korea, will lead advanced genomics research at the AGRC to support food security through work on plants, animals, insects, and microorganisms,” said Dr. Lee.

Looking ahead, the partnership is poised to deepen scientific cooperation and expand its footprint across the ASEAN.

The 4th KOICA-UPLB-IRRI International Conference is a collaborative effort among UPLB, KOICA, and IRRI, gathering scientists, researchers, and development partners working toward a resilient agricultural future. This year’s theme, “Future-Proofing Agriculture Through Science and Collaboration,” reflects a shared commitment to addressing growing challenges through innovative research, capacity building, and international cooperation.

Source – IRRI