Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 10089)
The law is officially known as the "Philippine Rubber Research Institute Act of 2010".
The policy is to develop self-reliant industries effectively controlled by Filipinos, encourage investments, provide incentives to private enterprise, promote employment and livelihood opportunities for the poor, ensure ecological balance, and prioritize education and training especially in science and technology for sustainable development.
The PRRI's mandate is to initiate and administer research and development programs to improve the quality and increase productivity of rubber especially benefiting smallholder rubber producers and processors.
The PRRI is under the control and supervision of the Department of Agriculture (DA).
Smallholder rubber producers refer to individuals, cooperatives, or corporations owning and/or cultivating five (5) hectares or less of rubber plantation.
The PRRI is tasked to propagate and promote rubber planting and wise utilization; enable access to quality seedlings and techniques; undertake training and capacity-building; aid in establishing village-based rubber enterprises; promote cooperative development among smallholders; conduct research and development projects; and enter into agreements and receive grants through the DA.
The Executive Director is appointed by the President of the Philippines for a term of three years upon the recommendation of the DA and must possess high educational, technical, managerial competencies in research and development, integrity, and proven probity in public service.
The Advisory Board is mandated to develop policies and programs for improving technologies in the rubber industry to meet global standards, review and recommend PRRI's annual budget, evaluate program effectiveness, and recommend the establishment or abolition of satellite units.
It is composed of the Secretary of the DA or representative as chairman, Undersecretary of the DA as vice chairman; Executive Directors of the Bureau of Agricultural Research, Bureau of Plant Industry, and PRRI; and two representatives appointed by the President—one from rubber producers and one from rubber processors.
Not more than 40% of funds shall be used for personnel services and maintenance; 35% for research, development, training, and information; and 25% for seedling propagation and dispersal of rubber trees.