Uniting minds and ideas at the 56th PMCP Anniversary and Annual Scientific Conference, proudly co-sponsored by DOST-PCAARRD

The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) co-sponsored the Pest Management Council of the Philippines (PMCP) in organizing the 56th PMCP Anniversary and Annual Scientific Conference held at the La Carmela de Boracay Hotel, Boracay Island, Aklan from June 24 to 28, 2024.

Themed, "Cultivating Resilience: Harnessing Innovative Technologies for Sustainable Pest Management in a Changing Climate," the conference united renowned scientists and experts who explored cutting edge technologies in pest management, while professional societies and industry professionals teamed up and tackled the issues in revolutionizing resilience through sustainable agriculture.

The conference featured a farmer’s forum, plenary sessions, poster presentations, business meetings, and societal fellowships. Presentations were focused on the potential of regenerative practices and solutions in driving farmers’ productivity and environmental sustainability; regional and transboundary collaborative approaches to enhance plant health and manage pests and diseases; initiatives for responsible and ethical management of product to ensure safe food supply and resistance management through collaborations with various stakeholders; impact of residue analysis of agricultural commodities and the establishment of maximum residue limits aligned with the ASEAN harmonization and/or CODEX standards; and other science disciplines that help farmers protect their crops through pest management and contribute to the planet’s survival.

Aligned with DOST-PCAARRD’s banner program on strategic R&D, the event was considered as a paramount step for regional and transboundary collaboration that can be aligned with DOST-PCAARRD’s research and development mandates. The event can also be a means to establish initiatives to address emerging and invasive pests. Also tackled in the conference were concerns about discovery of plant diseases and how to disseminate information about pesticide resistance. Effective awareness drives and interventions for the country’s agriculture sector will definitely complement policies and programs at the local and national levels.

The PMCP Conference concluded with the awarding of Best Undergraduate Thesis Award in the Fields of Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Weed Science; Outstanding Farmers and Regenerative Initiative Award in Pest Management; PMCP Exemplary Members; PMCP Awardee for Instruction, Extension and Business practice; Outstanding Entomologist, and Memorial Award for Insect Systematics.

Based on the PMCP report, around 450 participants from different agricultural sectors engaged in the conference. Each benefited from keynote and plenary lectures that offered valuable insights into pest management and its sustainability. Furthermore, valuable resources including a book of abstracts and souvenir programs were produced, making research and reference a seamless experience for the scientific community.

The DOST-PCAARRD has been providing funds to qualified professional or scientific and academic organizations that pursue activities in support of the Council’s advocacies, banner programs, and goals.