PHILRICE, Nueva Ecija—The Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) will be celebrating its 24th anniversary on November 3-6 with the theme “The future is bright, the future is rice.”

This year’s anniversary will kick off with the celebration of National Rice Awareness Month, which aims to introduce students to opportunities in rice farming and social and agro-industrial ventures.

The four-day celebration will highlight spiritual enrichment, Santiago R. Obien (SRO) seminar, employee recognition, DA-PhilRice salu-salo, and knowledge-products launching.

Agustin Molina, director of the International Network for the Improvement of Banana and Plantain, will share his insights, ideas and experiences in the SRO seminar.

Outstanding employees will be recognized on November 6 wherein former Philippine Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Virginia Benavidez, is expected to attend the employees’ recognition. New publications such as rice technology bulletins, 2009 PhilRice newsletters, 2008 Milestones and R&D Highlights, and other knowledge products will also be launched.

These technology bulletins provide readers with information and guidance on the latest technologies and techniques in rice production.

The R&D Highlights and Milestones detail the Institute’s thrusts and challenges in rice research and development.

Art and photo contests for all DA-PhilRice employees with the theme Rice Abstracts and Rice Landscapes will also be made.