MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday said that threats to rice supply present an “existential problem” to people and that the government is dedicated to modernizing the agriculture sector.
“It goes without saying, but I think it bears repeating that rice in our country means more than food. Rice in Asia, rice in the countries where it is the staple is in fact life. And whenever we find ourselves in a situation where the supply of rice is threatened, this is almost an existential problem that ordinary people feel,” Marcos said in his 6th International Rice Congress (IRC) message at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.
The President pointed out that the country’s rice issues stem from multiple problems, such as natural calamities and agricultural smuggling.
“Seeing the complexities of the situation, we strive to approach it in a comprehensive and holistic way based on science,” he said.
Marcos lauded innovations such as the ultra-low glycemic index (GI) rice.
The International Rice Institute developed GI rice as a healthier option for diabetics.
“We will remain steadfast in our efforts to modernize the agriculture sector through open dialogue and consultations with our farmers and agriculture experts. As you now share and explore opportunities, I look forward to the transformation of our systems and, more importantly, of our world,” said Marcos.
According to its website, the IRC is a gathering of food innovators. Convened by the International Rice Research Institute every four years, leaders and innovators gather to create solutions to the challenges of the rice sector.
