Manila: The country’s Philippine Rice Information System (PRiSM) has garnered the prestigious Special Award for Sustainability from the International Data Corporation Singapore (IDC), the Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Saturday. This accolade was officially presented at the Regional Future Enterprise Awards (FEA) on November 19, 2024, with Director Glenn Dela Cruz Estrada accepting the award on behalf of the DA.

According to Philippines News Agency, PRiSM was created in response to climate change challenges impacting Filipino farmers since 2013 and is recognized as Southeast Asia’s pioneering satellite-based rice monitoring system. The system is a data-driven tool that maps rice fields, predicts yields, and monitors droughts and floods. The DA described this achievement as an opportunity to further enhance the Philippine rice value chain and ensure a resilient and inclusive industry for future generations.

Estrada highlighted the significance of collaboration and innovation in securing the future of rice farmers and the nation’s food supply. PRiSM represents a joint effort among the DA, Philippine Rice Research Institute, and International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), among other partners. It equips farmers and policymakers with real-time and accurate information, enabling informed decisions to improve efficiency, mitigate risks, and bolster national food security.

In the Philippines, IRRI noted that PRiSM has assisted the DA in monitoring rice production and preparing for and mitigating the effects of disasters such as typhoons and El Ni±o on rice areas. Dr. Alice Laborte, IRRI-PRiSM project leader and geospatial scientist, underscored the importance of collaboration in PRISM’s success. She stated that the award reflects the strong partnership among IRRI, PhilRice, and collaborators, showcasing their commitment to long-term sustainability and support from the DA.

The FEA, hosted at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, honors outstanding organizations in the Asia Pacific region that lead digital transformation initiatives. Awardees are recognized for their innovative technologies that address significant challenges and promote sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across the region.