SEARCA Emphasizes Science-Policy-Practice Collaboration for Sustainable Food Systems in Southeast Asia

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) underscored the critical importance of integrating science, policy, and practice in advancing resilient and sustainable food systems during the 3rd International Conference on Food, Environment, and Culture (ICFEC) held November 5-7, 2025 at Hotel Supreme.

In her keynote speech, SEARCA Center Director Dr. Mercedita Sombilla called for a transformative, systemic overhaul of the region’s agrifood sector. She promoted the Science-Policy-Practice Interface (SPPI) framework as a vital link connecting research, governance, and community-driven initiatives. Dr. Sombilla stressed enhanced collaboration among diverse stakeholders and the dynamic exchange of knowledge as key to fostering integration across sectors.

Introducing the triple nexus approach—uniting food, environment, and nutrition—she outlined how this model fosters cross-sectoral coordination that contributes to healthier diets and strengthened ecosystems.

Highlighting SEARCA’s flagship programs, Dr. Sombilla detailed comprehensive efforts blending research, policy advocacy, technology incubation, and skill development:

• Climate-smart and digital agriculture projects supported by policy briefs and institutional capacity-building;
• The Safeguarding and Sustaining the Integrity of Halal Food initiative, which seeks to harmonize halal standards throughout ASEAN nations;
• The BUMP-UP Biotech project aimed at promoting modern agricultural biotechnology through evidence-based policymaking, farmer education, and media engagement;
• The Rice Straw Biogas Hub, a scalable solution for converting rice straw waste into bioenergy and value-added commodities.

She also spotlighted SEARCA’s dedication to inclusive agricultural enterprise development, noting value chain projects focused on calamansi and coconut farming, and introduced the Consortium for Agricultural Policy Research Initiatives (CAPRI), a regional alliance fostering evidence-based policy for sustainable agriculture.

"Bridging science, policy, and practice is essential to transform agriculture in Southeast Asia," Dr. Sombilla declared. "Our objective extends beyond increasing yields to developing resilient livelihoods, restoring ecosystems, and ensuring nutritional security for future generations."

The conference’s theme, "Global Conversations and Cooperations on Science, Technology, Innovations, and Culture Towards Sustainable Communities," emphasized shifting from purely academic achievements to tangible community impact. Through its 12th Five-Year Development Plan, named Sustainable Transformation of Agricultural Systems through Innovation in Southeast Asia (SUSTAIN Southeast Asia), SEARCA is spearheading science-driven and culturally relevant solutions to advance inclusive and sustainable food systems across the region.