The Department of Agriculture and its partner government institutions in advancing biotechnology, namely:  Department of Science and Technology, Department of Environment and Natural Resources Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (DENR-ERDB), Department of Health (DOH) through the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and with the partnership of the House of Representatives opened the “Bioteknolohiya: Pambansang Hamon, Pambansang Solusyon” exhibit on 21 May at the North Wing Lobby of the House of Representatives.

The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA), and International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), and National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP) are present as well during the opening.

The 4-day exhibit features developed technologies, services, and information materials where legislators can further learn about the benefits of biotechnology, so they could help in passage of laws and policies that would assist the industry.

House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez enjoined legislators for continuous support in biotechnology through a message read by Iloilo 4^th District Rep. Ferjenel Biron saying, “the goal is to act now for real progress to begin. Convergence and innovation is the key. Together, let’s work hand in hand in furthering this breakthrough.”

“Biotechnology’s benefits are meaningful, especially as the country’s population is growing,” he added while emphasizing that congress should work together and strengthen support for biotechnology.

The exhibit will be on display until 24 May as part of the kickoff activities of the 14^th National Biotechnology Week on 20-24 November 2018 at the MetroTent Convention Center, Pasig City. Heading this year’s celebration is the Department of Science and Technology through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD).The annual Biotechnology Week celebration will feature technology exhibits, seminars, and fora on biotechnology.