An International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) expert says the Philippines has a lot of potential for rice production.
“I think it can increase production and reach a level where they can become a rice exporter,” says Tobias Kretzschmar, head of the genotyping services laboratory within IRRI’s Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology Division.
Kretzschmar says there are a number of rice varieties in the Philippines that are grown and sold, which contain the majority of IRRI germplasm. However, he recognizes that PhilRice is catching up.
“I think PhilRice is releasing more rice varieties into the market than IRRI,” he explains. “So from becoming a major work horse, I think we are stepping back in our support for the Philippines, because the Philippine national program is strong enough to probably lead itself.” Source: Manila Bulletin.
