The Mindoro State University (MinSU) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has signed a memorandum of understanding for a P3 million research project intended for improving agricultural production in MIMAROPA region.

The agreement, signed during the 89th Regional Development Council Full Council Meeting last Friday, establishes the framework for the “Policy Study on the Application of Select Smart Agricultural Technologies to Improve Agricultural Production in MIMAROPA.”

The project, funded through NEDA’s 2024 Research and Development Fund, will begin implementation this year with NEDA overseeing the research activities and MinSU serving as the primary research hub.

“Our institution will provide facilities, workspaces, specialized equipment, and technical expertise including researchers, faculty members, and students who will actively contribute to the study,” said MinSU President Enya Marie D. Apostol.

The research will focus on key commodities including rice, coconut, corn, banana, lanzones, rambutan, onion, and various fruit crops and vegetables selected for their economic significance and potential for productivity enhancement.

Agriculture has long been the economic backbone of Mindoro, which is often referred to as the “Rice Granary of Southern Tagalog.”

The island’s fertile plains, particularly in Oriental Mindoro, are ideal for rice cultivation, while higher elevations support a diverse range of fruit crops.

Despite this agricultural potential, Mimaropa has faced obstacles including climate change impacts, limited access to modern farming technologies, and infrastructure constraints.

MIMAROPA region, which includes Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan, enormously contributes to the country’s agricultural output but has struggled with productivity issues that this research aims to address.

Primary beneficiaries will include smallholder farmers, agricultural cooperatives, and local farming communities in Mimaropa.

Agricultural extension workers, research institutions, and policymakers will also benefit from findings intended to promote innovative farming techniques, improve crop yields, enhance climate resilience, and support sustainable agricultural development.

File photo courtesy of NIA Region 4B