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MEETING. The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary Conrado Estrella III and Israel Ambassador Ilan Fluss meet on Wednesday (Jan. 15, 2025) in Quezon City to discuss strengthening the partnership between the Philippines and Israel. DAR said the meeting focused on exploring opportunities for collaboration on agricultural initiatives, rural development, and innovative farming technologies. (Photo courtesy of DAR)

MANILA – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has entered into a strategic partnership with Israel to advance agricultural development and innovation in the Philippines.

In a news release on Thursday, DAR said Secretary Conrado Estrella III and Israel Ambassador Ilan Fluss have discussed the possibility of a strong collaboration on cutting-edge farming technologies, rural development, and sustainable agricultural practices.

During their meeting, Estrella recognized the longstanding relationship between the Philippines and Israel and highlighted the successful implementation of the Philippines’ agrarian reform program under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

He also noted the positive impact of DAR programs on the lives of agrarian reform beneficiaries while emphasizing the need for further growth in rural areas.

Fluss, meanwhile, acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by Israel due to the ongoing war in the Middle East and shared the resilience of their agricultural sector.

He also noted the importance of international partnerships from allies such as the United States in securing food and medical aid for its citizens.

Meanwhile, a key focus of the meeting between Estella and Fluss was the adoption of Israeli agricultural technologies, particularly in irrigation methods and Precision Agriculture (PA).

Israel’s expertise in water-efficient irrigation systems, particularly suited for arid regions, was identified as a critical solution for Filipino farmers facing water crisis concerns.

Both officials expressed enthusiasm about the potential of PA, which uses data and technology to optimize crop yields, water use, and resource management, while Fluss affirmed Israel’s willingness to share expertise in this area.

As part of knowledge exchange initiatives, Fluss also invited DAR officials to visit Israel for training by experts on farming, rural development, and climate change adaptation.

Estrella expressed his gratitude and proposed expanding the program to also include agriculture graduates supported by the DAR.

This initiative, he said, aligns with DAR’s goal of empowering qualified agriculture graduates by awarding them land to encourage youth participation in farming.

“You are blessed with vast tracts of arable land. Let us help you make it abundant and uplift the lives of farmers,” Fluss said. (PNA)

Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1241992