PH returns to int’l sugar technologists’ meet

Here is a rewritten version of the blog post with a polished tone, grammar, and readability

The Philippines Reconnects A Sweet Return to International Sugar Technologists' Meet

After a four-decade hiatus, the Philippines has made a triumphant return to the International Society of Sugar Cane Technologists Congress, a premier platform for sugarcane knowledge exchange. The country was represented by two esteemed officials from the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA), OIC-Deputy Administrator for Research, Development and Extension Ma. Lourdes Almodiente and SRA-Luzon Agricultural Research and Extension Center (SRA-Larec) Breeding Program head Rachel Sarol.

A Global Gathering of Sugarcane Experts

The centennial congress brought together over 1,000 delegates from 60 countries in Cali, Colombia, providing a unique opportunity for knowledge sharing and collaboration. The event featured technical sessions, plenaries, and workshops that explored cutting-edge topics such as climate-resilient sugarcane varieties, precision agriculture, and innovative pest and disease management.

Sharing Best Practices and Learning from Global Experts

Almodiente and Sarol actively participated in the activities, allowing them to learn about best practices in sugar production from around the world. Almodiente noted that the event reaffirmed that local research efforts are aligned with global directions, but also highlighted areas where they can further strengthen their programs to better serve Filipino farmers.

Innovative Insights for Improved Sugarcane Breeding

Sarol emphasized the importance of discussions on molecular breeding and variety improvement, which will help enhance their breeding program. These learnings will enable us to deliver high-yielding, pest-resistant, and climate-adaptive varieties to our farmers, she stressed.

Technical Tours Exploring Innovative Cultivation and Processing Systems

Delegates also took technical tours of sugar mills and the Cenicaña research center in Colombia, which showcased innovative cultivation and processing systems that can be adapted in the Philippines.

The Significance of the Philippines' Return

The Philippines' return to the Congress is significant not only for reconnecting with the international sugar community but also for enabling local sugarcane farmers to benefit from the latest scientific findings and innovations. The SRA plans to incorporate global best practices in breeding, research, and pest management while strengthening its local and international partnerships.

A New Era of Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing

The agency's participation reaffirmed its place in the global conversation – demonstrating that local practices are not only keeping pace but are at par with world standards. As the Philippines looks to the future, it is clear that collaboration and knowledge sharing will be key to driving innovation and growth in the sugarcane industry.

Keywords International Society of Sugar Cane Technologists Congress, sugar cane, sugarcane research, precision agriculture, innovative pest management, climate-resilient varieties.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.