Javier named national scientist for his work in agriculture

AGRONOMIST AND and former University of the Philippines president Emil Q. Javier has been declared as a national scientist for his “outstanding contributions” to the progress of science and technology in the field of agriculture. President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed Proclamation No. 781 on Aug. 2 conferring on Mr. Javier the rank and title of national scientist. According to the Palace, the work of Mr. Javier in the field of agriculture, “through spearheading the Institute of Plant Breeding which popularized high-yielding crops and disease-resistant varieties in the country and Asia, evinces his outstanding contributions to the progress of science and technology in the Philippines.” The Palace also noted that Mr. Javier led and promoted “sound agricultural policies and programs, massive utilization of climate resilient and environment friendly agricultural innovations, and improved governance and management systems to help improve the livelihood of Filipino farmers and fisherfolk.” — Arjay L. Balinbin