"The Power of Searca: Chief Rallies New Agriculturists

The Power of Searca: Chief Rallies New AgriculturistsAs Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (Searca) celebrated a significant milestone, its chief Glenn Gregorio delivered an inspiring address to newly licensed agriculturists, urging them to be the change-makers they can be. In this article, we will explore the importance of Searca's forward-thinking strategy and how it will shape the agriculture sector in the years to come.A Timely ReminderGregorio's speech at the oath-taking ceremony of over 3,000 newly licensed agriculturists served as a timely reminder of the critical role these professionals play in transforming Philippine agriculture. Just days later, the Senate passed Senate Bill (SB) 2906, or the proposed Philippine Agriculturists Act, which aims to elevate the standards of the agriculture profession and provide long-overdue recognition and support to agriculturists nationwide.Elevating the ProfessionIn his speech, Gregorio congratulated the newly licensed agriculturists on their hard-earned achievement and acknowledged the unwavering support of their families throughout their academic journey. He emphasized that these young professionals are not just licensed experts but trailblazers who hold the potential to transform Philippine agriculture and address pressing challenges such as climate change and food insecurity.The Next Generation of AgriculturistsGregorio referred to the newly licensed agriculturists as the "beta generation of agriculturists," highlighting their role as innovators, changemakers, and future leaders in Philippine agriculture. He challenged them to rise to the occasion, declaring that "the world needs passionate, innovative, and committed agriculturists."Searca's Forward-Thinking StrategyDuring the event, Gregorio outlined Searca's forward-thinking strategy embodied in its 12th Five-Year Development Plan (2025-2030). The plan focuses on three critical actions for transforming agriculture:1. Attracting Youth into Agriculture: Promoting agriculture as a modern, dynamic, and rewarding career to attract more young people into the industry.2. Revolutionizing the Value Chain: Leveraging digitalization and technology to modernize agricultural processes and create a more efficient value chain.3. Ensuring Inclusivity: Involving marginalized groups, including women, youth, and elderly populations, in creating a sustainable and equitable agricultural system.A Call to ActionGregorio challenged the new agriculturists to lead boldly, embrace change, and drive innovation fearlessly. He emphasized that Searca is committed to supporting the next generation of agriculturists to help drive sustainable and inclusive agricultural development.The Impact of SB 2906The proposed Philippine Agriculturists Act aims to establish a regulatory framework to uphold professional standards and improve recognition and remuneration for agriculturists. This landmark legislation will have a significant impact on the agriculture sector, providing long-overdue recognition and support to agriculturists nationwide.ConclusionIn conclusion, Searca's chief Glenn Gregorio's impassioned message to newly licensed agriculturists was a timely reminder of the importance of their role in transforming Philippine agriculture. The proposed Philippine Agriculturists Act is a significant step forward in elevating the standards of the agriculture profession and providing long-overdue recognition and support to agriculturists nationwide. As Searca continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of agriculture, its influence will be felt for years to come.Keywords: Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (Searca), Philippine Agriculturists Act, agricultural development, climate change, food insecurity, innovation, inclusivity.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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