UPLB launches Agricultural Genomics Research Center with support from South Korea

University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) will launch its Agricultural Genomics Research Center (AGRC) on September 21, 2026, marking a major step in strengthening the University and the country's capabilities in omics and genome-based agricultural research and development. It is the first agricultural genomics research facility in the country.

The AGRC, which began construction in 2023, was established in partnership with the South Korean government through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) under the grant project "Capacity-Building for Higher Education and the Establishment of Agricultural Genomics Research Center at the University of the Philippines Los Baños." It is the largest facility constructed by KOICA and represents KOICA's largest research and development project.

The broader project also includes academic partnerships, scholarships, training programs, and the provision of sophisticated equipment aimed at developing expertise in agricultural genomics.

The project also received support from the Department of Science and Technology through the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development, and the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development. Both agencies provided additional equipment that will comprise the suite of modern equipment inside the AGRC's laboratories.

The state-of-the-art facility is envisioned to serve as a hub for agricultural omics research, to support studies in genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. This will enable the study of agriculture at multiple levels, and expand beyond examining genes and DNA. It will also house a tissue culture facility and two screenhouses for micropropagation.

As a capacity-building center, the UPLB AGRC will provide formal and non-formal training in agricultural omics. Included in its network are collaborators under the Korea-Philippine Omics Partnership Network, including faculty and staff from UPLB and its partner higher education institutions. The Center is also expected to serve the public through its analytical services. 

Joining the launch ceremony are UP President Angelo A. Jimenez, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines Lee Dong-gy, KOICA Country Director Jung Youngsun, and UPLB Chancellor Jose V. Camacho. Jr.. 

Also expected to grace the program are representatives of DOST, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development, the Commission on Higher Education, members of the UP Board of Regents, and National Scientists.

Beyond providing advanced research infrastructure, the AGRC is expected to strengthen collaboration among Philippine and South Korean institutions and expand opportunities for training and research in agricultural genomics. Its establishment is in line with UPLB's continuous pursuit of excellence in agricultural research and education and its efforts to develop science-based solutions for the future of Philippine agriculture.

Source: UPLB