IRRI commemorates 118th Philippine Independence Day

LOS BAÑOS, Philippines—In commemoration of the 118th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) held a flag-raising ceremony and hosted a breakfast reception for its staff on 10 June. This year’s theme was Kalayaan 2016: Pagkakaisa, Pag-aambagan, Pagsulong (Unite, Participate, Progress). The Philippines declared independence from Spain on 12 June 1898.

The flag-raising ceremony (photo) was led by the Security and Safety Services group and research staff members Rolly Torres, Olivyn Angeles, Menard dela Rosa, and Sheila Ann Edith France.

Noting that elections in the Philippines were held recently, Dr. Bruce Tolentino, deputy director general for communication and partnerships, said, “It is time to focus on our work and contribute to the continued improvement of the welfare of all peoples.  If we do our jobs well, then families can get the nutrition that they need to have a happy and healthy life.” He added that there is a direct connection between our good performance and the health of the Filipino family, the welfare of all farmers, and the strength of the nation. Let us keep that in mind to inspire us as we go forward."

Highlights of the celebration were a Filipiniana musical number performed by the Paciano Elementary School Dance troupe (photo at right) and a colorful parade of national costumes in which representatives from IRRI's organizational units vied for prizes for their attires. The top prize was awarded to Joanne Jerenice Anonuevo and Conrado Duenas (photo at left) of the Grain Quality and Nutrition Center and Crop and Environmental Sciences Division respectively. Roscel Dimapilis and Peter Belen of the Finance Unit bagged second prize. Joyce Maningas, Christian Guerta, Reycean Ballesteros, and Melirene Nora from the Supply Chain Services won the third prize.

Dr. Jacqueline Hughes, deputy director general for research, Dr. Bas Bouman, director of Global Rice Science Partnership, and Ms. Corinta Guerta, director for external relations also graced the event. The celebration ended with a Filipino breakfast at Kari’s Garden.

The Independence Day celebration was organized by the IRRI Filipino Scientists Association,
Association of IRRI Research Support Services, Society of IRRI Non-Research Professionals, and the Association of IRRI Secretaries and Administrative Staff.

(This article was written by Lem Rosellon, IRRI). 

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