MANILA – The Bureau of Plant Industry will focus increasingly on initiatives for better promoting sustainable farming nationwide to help further boost the Philippine agriculture’s competitiveness.

”We have to think seriously on making sure we not only produce food but make our farming activities sustainable,” BPI Assistant Director Dr. Henry Carpiso, said in a government press release.

He raised urgency for sustainable farming, noting most of the country’s natural resources are non-renewable. ”We need to change some parameters that we are so used to and engage in new methodologies that’ll make us more friendly with the environment,” he said.

Carpiso assured the public of BPI’s efforts to continue helping promote organic farming, noting this sustainable agricultural practice is among the most effective tools in producing safe food.

”Before, our main concern was to make food readily available to the market – now, we put more emphasis on producing food that’s safe for human consumption,” he said. This week, BPI marked its 82nd anniversary with the theme "Halaman ay Pagyamanin, Sapat na Pangunahing Pagkain ay Kamtin."

BPI aims to help Philippine crop farming communities and the local crop industry produce quality, accessible and globally competitive agricultural crops that are profitable for Filipinos.

The agency is also tasked with conserving and developing Philippine plant genetic resources as well as ensuring protection and development of the country’s plant industry. For 2011, BPI reported producing over 154,000 plant breeds, conducting field tests and holding several technical training events.

Earlier, Department of Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala lauded BPI for its dedication and accomplishments over the decades.

”Our farmers truly regard BPI highly – this institution's strength stems from the dedication and capability of its personnel,” he said.*PNA

back to top