Aimed to boost farmers’ livelihood through utilization of high-yielding varieties, the Department of Agriculture (DA), through its Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR), Bureau of Plant Industry, Regional Field Offices and National Corn Program, in collaboration with the University of the Philippines Los Baños–Institute of Plant Breeding, has launched two newly registered corn varieties on 5 December 2023 in Quezon City.
Under the DA-Corn Germplasm Utilization through Advanced Research and Development (CGUARD) program, CVRC Glut 21-16 from the DA-Cagayan Valley Research Center, commonly referred to as Deko Glut, and Tupi 1 WIT or South Cotabato Improved Tiniguib, developed by DA-SOCCSKSARGEN, are now ready for distribution and commercialization. Farmers can now reap the benefits of these improved native varieties.
CVRC Glut 21-16 boasts an average grain yield of 5.99 mt/ha in Luzon and 4.35 mt/ha in Mindanao. It also features a robust husk cover, providing resistance to many pests and diseases. Meanwhile, Tupi 1 WIT showcases an average grain yield of 5.15 mt/ha, surpassing another check variety from Mindanao that achieves approximately 4.98 mt/ha. Additionally, it exhibits a shelling recovery rate of 79%, 22-24 kernel rows, and apparent tolerance to downy mildew disease.
In his welcome message, Joell H. Lales, DA-BAR assistant director, emphasized the potential of enhancing more native varieties. He also underscored that the improvement of these varieties is aimed at supporting farmers in enhancing their livelihoods.
“Considering that we only have two regions highlighted here, then we have more to expect because we have 16 regions,” said Lales.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr, represented by assistant secretary for Policy Research and Development Noel A. Padre, applauded the other significant outcome that came from this project.
“In line with the goals and activities of CGUARD, the capacities of DA regional offices' researchers regarding varietal improvement and development utilizing modern tools of science were developed, practiced, and improved,” said Padre.
He mentioned that the researchers' enhanced techniques and skills can be utilized beyond the program, emphasizing that these capacities may be tapped, mobilized, and harnessed by DA now and in the future.
During the event, CVRC Glut 21-16 was distributed to corn farmers of Cagayan Valley and SOCCKSARGEN since the variety has two recommendation domains-Luzon and Mindanao. While Tupi 1 WIT was distributed to the farmers of Mindanao.
An open forum was also held to provide an avenue for farmers, officials, and researchers to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and explore potential partnerships. Present at the launching were selected corn farmers from Cagayan Valley and SOCCSKSARGEN; officials and representatives of DA and UPLB; and LGUs.
The DA-CGUARD program is implemented by DA regional field offices, through the DA-BAR and DA-National Corn Program, in collaboration with the UPLB–Institute of Plant Breeding.