THE UNIVERSITY of the Philippines Los Baños and the Embassy of India in Manila held a summit recently that tackled food security and promoted agriculture mechanization to boost farm productivity.

UPLB Chancellor Jose V. Camacho said the event served as an avenue for the Philippines and India to discuss experiences and explore mutually beneficial practices.

“UPLB is eager to collaborate with our Indian partners on the improvement of agricultural mechanization in the country, as well as on technological integration in farming methods and equipment,” Camacho said.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar, the event’s keynote speaker, said the summit provided an opportunity for both countries to collaborate in improving food security and addressing difficulties in the agricultural system.

The summit was attended by representatives from the Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering, Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization and the Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers and Distributors Association.

The Indian representatives include Escorts Agri Machinery, VST Tractors and Tiller India, Ecozen Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Green Robot Machinery Pvt. Ltd. and Harbest Agribiz Corporation.