Agri Specialist Inc. inspects UPLB's biofertilizer, potentially aiding President Marcos Jr’s plan to reduce reliance on imported fertilizers.
UPLB's Biofertilizer for Rice and Corn Undergoes Inspection: A Boost for Sustainable Agriculture?
Microbiologists and engineers from Agri Specialist Inc. recently inspected sacks of biofertilizer developed by the University of the Philippines - Los Baños (UPLB) Biotech inside its plant in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. This inspection, conducted on July 17, 2024, focuses on biofertilizers intended for rice and corn farms. Agri Specialist Inc. has committed to donating 500 metric tons of Bio-N, which can cover around 500,000 hectares of farmland. This donation supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s initiative to introduce biofertilizers to farmers, reducing their dependence on expensive and imported petroleum-based fertilizers.
The onsite media forum, Huntahan, was hosted by Atty. Toto Ylagan and featured key figures such as Ms. Fides Tambalo, Director of UPLB Biotech, and Mr. Mario Labactan, President of Agri Specialist Inc. Other notable attendees included Dr. Mannix Pedro, Deputy Director for RDE UPLB Biotech, Dr. Mario Labadan, Chairman of Agri Specialist Inc., and Mr. Carlos Abad, Sales & Marketing Director of Croptech Prime Solutions.
Huntahan is a media platform dedicated to highlighting social issues and exploring potential solutions, with a primary focus on addressing hunger. The forum emphasizes the importance of adequate, nutritious, and safe food supplies, advocating for sustainable farming practices that respect the soil as a primary resource.
Agri Specialist Inc. has been a leader in the livestock industry, providing high-quality feeds and animal nutrition products. Their latest commitment involves leveraging a research breakthrough from UPLB, specifically the discovery of nitrogen-fixing azospirillum bacteria, to produce biofertilizers. This initiative aims to reduce the reliance on chemical fertilizers, enhancing food production in a cost-effective manner using local resources.
The importance of supporting locally researched products is paramount to achieving food sovereignty and reducing dependence on foreign technology. This support is crucial not only for agricultural advancement but also for national security.
In light of Senate Bill No. 2593, which seeks to revise the Government Procurement Reform Act, there is a call to include a provision that promotes the patronage of locally validated research products. This inclusion is vital to recognizing the contributions of local scientists and ensuring the swift adoption and implementation of local innovations.
Can this biofertilizer breakthrough drive sustainable agricultural success in the Philippines?
