Three outstanding published papers in agriculture, aquatic sciences, and natural resources and environment were conferred with the Dr. Elvira O. Tan of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
The award pays tribute to Filipino scientists and researchers for their exceptional publication of research and development (R&D) results, which support PCAARRD’s mission to advance the country’s national economic and food security.
The outstanding published paper in Agriculture Category was bestowed to Philippine Rice Research Institute and Nagoya University for the paper, “The promoted lateral root 1 (plr1) mutation is involved in reduced basal shoot starch accumulation and increased root sugars for enhanced lateral root growth in rice.”
The research showed that the mutant exhibited decreased basal shoot starch accumulation, suggesting that carbohydrates might regulate the mutant root phenotype. Also, promoted lateral root 1 is important for the promotion of thick and long lateral roots (L-type LRs) development. Results from this study would be helpful in rice root architecture improvement.
The paper, “Stock Enhancement of abalone, Haliotis asinina, in multi-use buffer zone of Sagay Marine Reserve in the Philippines,” was conferred the outstanding published paper in the aquatic sciences category.
The study was implemented by the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center, Research Management Department, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, Guam Department of Education, and National Research Institute of Aquaculture, Fisheries Research and Education Agency.
The research results clearly illustrated that abalone seeds produced in hatcheries can be used to rehabilitate fisheries in multi-use buffer zones of marine reserves. It also showed that mean shell length, body weight, and body mass index of the hatchery-reared individuals are not significantly different from those of the recovered wild stocks.
For the Natural Resources and Environment Category, Isabela State University and University of the Philippines-Los Baños were awarded the outstanding published paper, “Assessing the impacts of climate change on irrigation diversion water requirement in the Philippines.” Results of this study can be used to determine the design of irrigable areas as part of planning and design criteria for dams and reservoirs. The results from this study would contribute to climate proofing of irrigation systems.
The awards were conferred during DOST-PCAARRD’s 50th Founding Anniversary themed, “Tatak GALÍNG, gáling PCAARRD: Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence in AANR Innovations” held on November 10, 2022 at the Council’s headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna.