Development of Corn Varieties and Seed Technology
- IPB Var-1 is a highly-yielding, open-pollinated corn variety with a complete package of accompanying technology.
- High germination rates and quality certification are essential for seed effectiveness.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Ministry of Agriculture and Bureau of Plant Industry
- Ministry of Agriculture to coordinate through the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) for procurement and distribution.
- BPI responsible for:
- Production of foundation and registered seeds.
- Ensuring strict quality control over certified seeds.
- Procuring certified seeds from accredited private seed producers.
- Distributing and selling seeds to farmer cooperators participating in the Maisagana program.
Distribution Network and Seed Producers
- Accredited private corn seed producers are willing to supply quality seeds.
- Recognition of their lack of an efficient distribution network.
- The directive aims to bridge this gap to ensure efficient delivery to small farmers.
Budgetary Provisions and Funding
- Ministry of Budget and Management ordered to release PHP 10,000,000.00.
- Funds to be drawn from the Special Activities Fund of the Office of the President.
- Funds intended for procurement and efficient distribution of certified natural-pollinating corn seed varieties, specifically IPB Var-1 and IPB Var-2.
Legal Authority and Implementation
- Issued by the President of the Philippines under the powers vested by law.
- Formalized in Manila on February 11, 1983.
- Establishes directives binding on the Ministries involved for successful program implementation.