DA-BPI Celebrates 96 Years of Advancing Science, Inclusion in Philippine Plant Industry
MANILA – The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) reaffirmed its commitment to science-driven and farmer-focused programs as it marked its 96th anniversary on Feb. 11, 2026, at the newly renovated Multipurpose Hall of its Central Office in Malate, Manila.
Carrying the theme, “Buhayin, Payabungin, Ingatan: Pagkilala sa Kontribusyon ng Kababaihan at Kabataan sa Paghahalaman para sa Masaganang Kinabukasan,” the celebration paid tribute not only to the Bureau’s nearly century-long legacy but also to women and youth who continue to shape the future of Philippine agriculture.
In a video message, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the Bureau’s enduring contribution to agricultural science and innovation.
He highlighted DA-BPI’s role in developing improved technologies, producing quality seeds, and breeding climate-resilient crop varieties suited to local conditions and responsive to the challenges of climate change.
The agriculture chief also underscored the vital participation of women and young people in crafting innovative solutions that will help keep the Philippine agriculture sector globally competitive.
For his part, DA-BPI Director Gerald Glenn Panganiban, PhD, stressed that beyond crops, biodiversity, and planting materials, the Bureau’s greatest strength lies in the dedication of its people. He called for a more inclusive and forward-looking plant sector.
He said the Bureau’s 96-year legacy stands as a testament to its workforce’s commitment to public service and its promise to safeguard agriculture for future generations.
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso, who attended the event, cited the Bureau’s efforts in promoting urban agriculture as a practical response to food insecurity, particularly in densely populated cities like Manila.
He noted that the city government is collaborating with national agencies, local government units, and private stakeholders to advance sustainable food security initiatives in the capital.
During the anniversary program, DA-BPI launched several knowledge products, including the Manual on Mango Insect Pests and Diseases (1st Edition), the Manual on Biocontrol Agents (2nd Edition), and the Journal of Fruit and Vegetable Research and Food Security. These were developed by the Crop Pest Management Division and the Office of the Assistant Director for Research, Development, and Production Support Services (ADO-RDPSS).
The Bureau also introduced key initiatives such as the BPI Button Mushroom (BBM) Project of its Baguio–National Crop Research, Development and Production Support Center; the Private Seed Testing Laboratory Accreditation Program of the National Seed Quality Control Services; and the establishment of the Intellectual Property Management Office under ADO-RDPSS.
A ceremonial deposition was likewise held for the newly NSIC-registered mungbean variety “LG MG 28-6-0,” developed by DA-BPI La Granja, into the DA-BPI Plant Genetic Resources Genebank.
As one of the Department of Agriculture’s key bureaus, DA-BPI is mandated to promote a sustainable and competitive plant industry by ensuring high-quality, safe, and resilient crop production. Its core functions include research and development, plant pest management, seed certification, and enforcement of plant quarantine policies to help secure the country’s food supply and improve farmers’ incomes.
NPO News Team | DA-AFID PR
