UPLB Research and Extension News

La Trinidad, Benguet (23 January) -- As the problem of climate change worsens, agriculturists and experts are working very hard to keep up with the challenges this phenomenon may pose to food supply.

University of the Philippines – Los Banos Soil Conservation Technology and Weed Management research team head Dr. Gil Magsino said that several agriculturists and scientists are developing new breed of seeds that can withstand climate change. Magsino said that they have developed in partnership with the Philippine Rice Research Institute and the International Rice Research Institute. palay or rice seeds that could survive in any condition or weather. These rice seeds could survive with less water during dry season and could survive even after being flooded under water, he explained.

'Pag napagerminate na ung palay tapos bumaha, pag nawala ung tubig buhay pa ung palay' Magsino said.

The rice varieties we have are very much water sensitive, Magsino said as he bared that they have developed rice seeds that are less water dependent in preparation of the threat of El Niño and extreme heat.

Magsino also disclosed that they are developing highland vegetable seeds that can survive and keep up with the climate change. He noted that highland vegetables being grown here in Benguet and the Mountain Provinces are very much sensitive to temperature.

Magsino added that contributors to climate change are highly urbanized cities with more carbon dioxide emission. He advised fast tracking of reforestation to help combat the situation.