PASAY CITY, Philippines—Dr. Glenn Gregorio, Center Director of the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) and 2024 Outstanding Professional of the Year in the field of Agriculture, delivered an inspiring message to the new generation of licensed agriculturists as he served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker at the Oathtaking Ceremony of New Agriculturists at the Philippine International Convention Center on 20 January 2025. The event was hosted by the Professional Regulation Commission.
Dr. Gregorio congratulated the more than 3,000 newly registered professional agriculturists for their hard work and acknowledged their parents' unwavering support throughout their studies and review, leading to their oath-taking.
"Today, you, the Beta Generation of Agriculturists, are not just licensed professionals; you are changemakers, innovators, trailblazers, influencers, and future leaders of Philippine agriculture," Dr. Gregorio remarked.
He highlighted the unique situation of the newly licensed agriculturists—being caught in an unprecedented time with pressing challenges, such as climate change and food insecurity while being presented with opportunities to address these issues through technological innovations like artificial intelligence, drones, and big data.
In this context, Dr. Gregorio introduced Carbon-WISE Agriculture: Winnable Innovative Solutions for the Environment, SEARCA's 12th Five-Year Development Plan strategy on producing better and bigger outputs while utilizing fewer resources. It aims to launch initiatives that will focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserve soil, and protect biodiversity while ensuring food security for future generations.
Moreover, Dr. Gregorio outlined three concrete ways to transform agriculture. The first is encouraging younger generations to engage in agriculture by showcasing it as a modern, dynamic, and rewarding career. The second is revolutionizing the value chain through digitalization. Last is ensuring that women, youth and children, elderlies, and other marginalized groups are heard and are involved in creating a sustainable agricultural system.
Newly licensed agriculturists pose with Dr. Gregorio and Dr. Fernando Sanchez, Jr., President of the Philippine Association of Agriculturists, Inc.
To cap his message, he left the new agriculturists with a resounding challenge.
"The world needs passionate, innovative, and committed agriculturists. I challenge you to be leaders who not only adapt to change but also drive it," Dr. Gregorio declared.
He called on them to "be ready to make sacrifices, take risks, and innovate fearlessly."