Institute of Plant Breeding Marks 50 Years with Farmers’ Field Day
The Institute of Plant Breeding is commemorating its 50th anniversary this year under the theme “IPB Golden Jubilee: Celebrating Milestones, Innovating Pathways in Plant Breeding.” Among the key events is the Farmers’ Field Day held from May 20 to 23 at Pili Drive, University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) in Laguna. This four-day celebration highlighted the institute’s continuous contribution to agricultural development through innovation and collaboration.
The event began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by top officials including the IPB director and deputy director, along with academic leaders from UPLB. A message delivered on behalf of the UPLB Chancellor emphasized IPB’s five decades of dedication to developing improved crop varieties, advancing scientific research, and addressing the needs of Filipino farmers nationwide.
“Through collaboration, we will be able to establish a bountiful, resilient, and sustainable farming system in our country that can respond to the demands of Filipinos and withstand any challenges that the future may bring because we want our farmers to be future-proof and future-ready,” stated a university official during the opening.
Showcasing Agricultural Innovations and Crop Varieties
Nearly 1,000 attendees including farmers, local agricultural officers, students, researchers, and partners from various regions participated in the field tour. They explored a one-hectare demonstration area featuring standing crops of open-pollinated varieties (OPV) such as vegetables, legumes, root crops, cereals, fruits, and ornamentals.
The displayed crops included bottle gourd, bitter gourd, sponge gourd, cucumber, eggplant, okra, mungbean, soybean, sweet potato, cassava, corn, sorghum, mango, vinca, and mussaenda. These varieties are registered with the National Seed Industry Council and the IPB Germplasm and Technology Release and Registration Office, ensuring quality and reliability.
In addition, collaborators from various seed and agricultural companies showcased both OPV and hybrid crop varieties alongside other products. Farmers were also able to consult experts regarding plant pests and diseases, enhancing their knowledge and farming practices.
Extending Agricultural Knowledge to the Community
The Farmers’ Field Day is part of IPB’s extension programs aimed at promoting agricultural advancements by presenting promising crop varieties and technologies. This initiative helps the public and stakeholders understand the vital role agriculture plays in ensuring food and nutrition security.
Mandated by Presidential Decree 729, IPB commits to developing new and improved crop varieties, conducting research in plant breeding and related fields, conserving valuable germplasm through a seed bank, and supporting agencies in distributing quality seeds and planting materials.
Upcoming Events for the 50th Anniversary
Further celebrations will include the official 50th anniversary program on June 5, featuring a formal ceremony and recognition of outstanding IPB staff and longtime collaborators. On June 6, a festive Fiestahan and Family Day will bring together IPB constituents, alumni, guests, and partners with cultural and live music performances.
Lastly, the International Plant Breeding Conference and Fashion Innovation Show featuring the IPB Abaca Hybrid will take place on June 26 and 27. This two-day scientific gathering will provide a platform for experts, students, and partners to exchange knowledge and present research breakthroughs. The event will open with a welcome dinner on June 25, followed by a fashion show highlighting the innovative IPB abaca hybrid.
These activities collectively celebrate the Institute of Plant Breeding’s 50 years of excellence and its ongoing commitment to advancing Philippine agriculture.
For more news and updates on agricultural development, visit Filipinokami.com.