DA, DOST push joint R&D in agri engineering, biotech

Manila, Philippines -  The Department of Agriculture (DA) has signed an agreement with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for research initiatives on agricultural engineering and biotechnology among others.

A memorandum of understanding was signed between the DA and the DOST for the acceleration of a number of its research and development activities (R&D).

The DA, through the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) will coordinate with the DOST on R&D activities.

PhilMech executive director Rex L. Bingabing said that the agreement would facilitate “parallel efforts” between the DOST’s various agencies and PhilMech on the following research areas: agricultural engineering; postharvest pest and disease management; mycotoxin prevention and food safety; food processing; agricultural economics and agribusiness management and biotechnology.