Trailblazing the future of multi-OMICs technologies in agriculture, aquaculture, and natural resources

LOS BAÑOS, Philippines (13-14 August 2024) - The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) came together at IRRI Headquarters to present progressive developments of researchers in the "Application of Genomics and Bioinformatics to Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Natural Resources."

The 3rd KOICA-UPLB-IRRI International Conference, co-organized with the Philippine Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-Southern Luzon Chapter (PSBMB-SLC), highlighted the latest advancements in genomics, bioinformatics, and other omics technologies and their contributions to modern agriculture, aquaculture, and the use of natural resources.

"As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of Korea Philippines diplomatic ties and the 30th anniversary of KOICA's presence in the Philippines, it is inspiring to be able to strengthen our support for the country's efforts toward food security and sustainable development," said KOICA Philippines Country Director Eunsub Kim.

The conference gathered leading international experts in the field, including Philippine National Scientist Dr. Carmencita Padila. Plenary talks also featured presenters on the promising application of genomic and bioinformatic technologies in other areas of science, like plant breeding and livestock immunization.

Featured cutting-edge research projects, innovative approaches, and findings by KOICA PhD scholars highlighted the rise in studies in this field and reinforced significant implications for enhancing the current realm of agriculture, aquaculture, and the sustainable utilization of natural resources.

"Today is the culmination of your collective efforts for this conference, but it also marks the start of important conversations, discoveries, and partnerships that advance innovative applications for genomics, bioinformatics, and omics technologies toward solving complex agriculture, aquaculture, and natural resource challenges," said Dr. Yvonne Pinto, IRRI Director General.

The event also witnessed the launch of the Korea-Philippine OMICs Partnership Network (KPOP-Net), a…