Bill creating rubber research body up for deliberation

MANILA, Philippines - A bill creating a Philippine Rubber Research Institute (PRRI) came close to becoming a law after it was been reported out for floor deliberation in the House of Representatives. House Bill 2435, which also aims to increase the income of farmers in Zamboanga Sibugay, was out for deliberations, the House agriculture committee reported. "The establishment of the PRRI will help rubber producers and processors as well as alleviate social and economic conditions in the countryside," author Rep. Ann Hofer (Zamboanga Sibugay) said in an article on the House of Representatives website. She said the bill is essential at helping government realize its goal of economic progress and countryside development through industrial competitiveness and human empowerment. Hofer, vice chairwoman of the House Committee on Aquaculture and Fisheries Resources, said the development of the rubber industry requires an institution to oversee and implement programs and projects focused on research training and capacity-building. She said the creation of a rubber institution in Zamboanga Sibugay is urgent not only because of the absence of it there, but more because of the abundance of rubber trees in the province. "The need to create the PRRI is based on principles enshrined in the Constitution regarding the promotion of self-reliant industries; the encouragement of private enterprises; the generation of employment and livelihood opportunities for the poor; and the provision for training and education particularly in science and technology among others," she said. Also, she said the PRRI would be a strong foundation for a solid and competitive rubber industry with its rationally designed functions of initiating research both on policy and technology, and of providing training and other support services. - GMANews.TV