Authorization and Promotion of Hybrid Rice Technology
- Government agencies including the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and National Food Authority (NFA) authorized to accelerate hybrid rice technology promotion.
- Hybrid rice planting area targets set at 135,000 hectares (2002), 200,000 hectares (2003), and 300,000 hectares (2004).
Goals and Expected Outcomes of the Hybrid Rice Program
- Increase rice productivity.
- Generate new employment opportunities in agriculture.
Philippine Rice Research Institute (PHILRICE) Background
- Established under DA by Executive Orders 1061 (1985) and 60 (1986).
- Mission to develop national rice research, improve rice farmer income, expand rural employment, and promote rice self-sufficiency.
Transfer of PHILRICE to the Office of the President
- For closer administrative supervision and enhanced effectiveness.
- Authority granted by Administrative Code (1987) Section 31 for administrative reorganization.
Primary Responsibility for Hybrid Rice Program
- PHILRICE designated as the lead government agency responsible for the Hybrid Rice Program.
- PHILRICE to recommend a Program Coordinator for day-to-day operations.
- Authority to request assistance from other government agencies.
Transfer Provision
- Official transfer of PHILRICE from DA to the Office of the President.
Reconstitution of PHILRICE Board of Trustees
- Board composition: Presidential Adviser for One Million Jobs (Ex Officio Chairman) plus 12 appointed members.
- Appointment: Members appointed by the President upon recommendation of the Presidential Adviser.
- Term: 2 years.
- Meetings: At least monthly; quorum requires 7 members.
- Decision-making: Majority vote with quorum.
- Compensation: Per diem up to PHP 2,000/month plus transportation and representation allowances.
Formation of Hybrid Rice Action Teams
- Established for each province covered by the Program.
- Composition includes agriculturists, agrarian reform and irrigation officers, NFA representatives, and stakeholders from farming and business sectors.
- Roles: Identify suitable rice areas, partner with farming/business sectors, supervise farm-level production, facilitate extension services, ensure financing and marketing.
Reporting Requirements
- PHILRICE to provide periodic implementation reports directly to the President.
Program Funding and Budget Allocation
- PHP 450 million allocated from DA’s Agricultural and Fisheries Modernization Program for initial funding.
- Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to ensure timely release of funds for 2002.
- Subsequent funding for 2003 and 2004 to be included in PHILRICE’s budget proposals.
Repeal Clause
- Conflicting orders, rules, and regulations with this Executive Order are repealed or modified accordingly.
Effectivity
- The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon approval on March 4, 2002.