QUEZON CITY, (PIA)–The Embassy of Israel in the Philippines invited an agricultural research expert to share with the Philippines his insights on how Israel became a world leader in agriculture and modernized its agricultural research and development (R&D) agenda as well as the country’s modern technologies, techniques, and best practices for its agricultural sector.
In a knowledge exchange event with the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), Deputy Director of Volcani Institute of Israel Prof. Uri Yermiyahu discussed the context of the agricultural research and development agenda of Israel.
Prof. Uri also joined the panel discussions about comparing and contrasting the agricultural R&D agenda of Israel and the Philippines and how to build an R&D agenda particularly on the balanced fertilization strategy.
It was attended by key agricultural research agencies, government officials, researchers from the academe, private sector, NGOs, and opened by DA Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban.
“Sharing Prof. Uri’s expertise with the Philippines exemplifies creating bridges of innovation and technology between our two nations. This initiative is a response to the call of President and DA Secretary Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for Israel to help the agriculture sector of the Philippines,” Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss said.
In partnership with the Israel Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ICCP), Prof. Uri shared his insights and perspectives on the intricate science of plant nutrition with the Board Members of ICCP and identified private sector companies. Prof. Uri also met with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), Private Sector Advisory Council to the President (PSAC), and other public and private sectors relevant to agriculture.
A second leg of the knowledge exchange was held with the Department of Agriculture in Davao, Mindanao led by Honorary Consul Jorge Marquez. Prof. Uri also met with the Davao Chamber of Commerce.
“Farming is a pursuit that unites Israel and the Philippines in our shared conquest for sustainable prosperity and food security. Our countries may be oceans apart, but our agricultural challenges and triumphs bridge the gap,” Deputy Ambassador Esty Buzgan said during the DA knowledge exchange event.
Prof. Uri is a Senior Researcher at the Agricultural Research Organization (Volcani Center) of Israel.
This is an agricultural research center that supports Israeli agriculture research, focusing on plant sciences, animal sciences, plant protection, soil and environmental sciences, food sciences, and agricultural engineering.
During his visit in Manila, Prof. Uri also promoted and encouraged Filipinos to join Agritech Israel 2023 that brings together industry leaders, business executives, entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, and policymakers worldwide on 17-19 October 2023.
AGRITECH 2023 is considered one of the most important exhibitions in the fields of technology, irrigation, fertilization, agricultural mechanization, water and food.
Agritech is also a leading platform for global exhibitors presenting the best innovative technologies in the field of agriculture.
The summit will bring together thousands of senior officials from around the globe, as well as exhibitors & participants who will have a great opportunity to network and grow their business. (Embassy of Israel PH/
