The Department of Agriculture – Philippine Rubber Research Institute (PRRI), in partnership with the Philippine Rubber Industries Association, Inc. (PRIA), has initiated a project aimed at elevating the profile and visibility of the rubber industry by showcasing arts derived from rubber to highlight the creativity and innovation within the industry.
On March 11, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., together with other DA officials, PRRI Executive Director Cheryl L. Eusala, and PRIA Vice President Allan Dy launched the ‘Ascending Arts in Rubber’.
“As we gather today, we are reminded with the immense potential of rubber. A material that goes beyond with its utilitarian purposes to become source of inspiration and artistic expression. Natural rubber remains a crucial resource of the Philippines playing a vital role in economic growth and development,” Sec. Tiu Laurel said in a statement read by Undersecretary Mercedita Sombilla.
Ascending Arts in Rubber aims to promote creativity, diversity, awareness, and appreciation of rubber-based arts. It serves as a platform to foster connectivity within the rubber industry, facilitating meaningful collaborations and innovation. The project also seeks to provide a prominent platform for rubber stakeholders, industry professionals, government agencies, academia, rubber cooperatives, farmers, and related industries to showcase exceptional work.
“The DA remains a steadfast partner toward this journey. We will continue to provide support and facilitate an environment condusive to innovation and growth,” Tiu Laurel explained.
Meanwhile, PRRI Executive Director Cheryl L. Eusala highlighted that the launch of ‘Ascending Arts in Rubber’ is not merely an exhibition but a movement toward the future of the rubber industry, celebrating its versatility and contributing to a legacy of innovation and sustainability.
The project encompasses various aspects of the rubber industry, including rubber products, farming equipment, valuable information on rubber, and rubber cultivation techniques. It also provides insights into PRRI and its research contributions to the sector.
Highlighting the project is an art competition open to the following categories: farmers/cooperatives, processors/trading firm, product manufacturers, adjunct industry/supplier, and state universities and colleges (SUCs) and national government agencies (NGAs). Registration for this competition is open from March 11 to June 30, 2024, with the winning entry to receive up to P50,000. ### (Kristel Joyce Merle, DA-AFID)
