Fully committed to continuing the delivery of credible, science-based information on agricultural biotechnology, the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) together with the Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) and other partner organizations, will take part in the celebration of the 19th National Biotechnology Week (NBW) on 20–24 November 2023 in Cebu, Philippines.
In his message for the NBW celebration, SEARCA Center Director Dr. Glenn Gregorio said that this year's theme, "Empowering Innovation for Sustainable Future through Biotechnology," reflects SEARCA's direction to move beyond the comfort zone and find new and innovative ways to meet the challenges in food security and improve the lives of farmers and farming families.
"In our current five-year plan, SEARCA focuses on accelerating transformation through agricultural innovation (ATTAIN). This includes products of modern biotechnology, a safe and viable science-based option that has yielded impact not just on our agricultural production but on our economy as well," Dr. Gregorio stated. "However, our work continues for us to nurture an enabling environment and harness the full potential of biotechnology, extending beyond agriculture to various other sectors as well," he added.
SEARCA has several activities lined up for the NBW. On 11 November 2023, there will be a Media Mentoring Workshop for Community Radio Broadcasters as part of the DA-Biotechnology Program Office (DA-BPO)-funded project, "Bridging and Upgrading Mechanisms and Pathways for the Uptake of Biotech (BUMP UP Biotech)." Meanwhile, a career orientation for senior high school students, "Career Horizons in Agribiotech: Pathways and Fellowship Event," will be conducted on 23 November 2023 in Cebu to promo agri-biotech as a major undergraduate course. DA-BPO is leading the activity. Lastly, the UP Genetic Researchers and Agricultural Innovators Society (UP GRAINS) will conduct "AgriBioTalk," an open-door discussion designed to advocate agri-biotech among the youth, on 24 November 2023.
SEARCA is also participating in the week-long exhibit on biotech innovations at SM Seaside City, Cebu City. Details of other NBW activities may be found on its official Facebook Page.
The DA leads this year's celebration. The NBW is an annual celebration that offers a platform to showcase biotechnologies generated for medical, agricultural, industrial, and environmental applications. It will be the first time to hold the NBW in Cebu City.