The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) reaffirmed their enduring collaboration during the hybrid 6th Partnership Health Check (PHC) held on March 19, 2026 at the DOST-PCAARRD Innovation and Technology Center, Los Baños, Laguna.
The annual PHC serves as a key platform to assess partnership performance, align strategic priorities, and strengthen mechanisms supporting joint research and development (R&D) and capacity development initiatives in the agriculture, aquatic and natural resources (AANR) sector.
“The Partnership Health Check is more than just an annual review of our activities. It is an important platform for reflection, dialogue, and forward planning,” said Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director.
Echoing this, Dr. Suzie Newman, ACIAR General Manager for Partnerships, emphasized the importance of continuously refining shared ways of working, highlighting trust and mutual accountability as cornerstones of a strong and effective partnership.
Between June 2025 and March 2026, the collaboration successfully completed five research-for-development projects across agribusiness, horticulture, livestock, and water resource management. Thirteen projects are currently ongoing, while eight more are in various stages of co-development. The PHC also identified new priority areas for collaboration, including nematode management, coral restoration and governance, cattle productivity, citrus gene editing, and contributions to a national health strategy.
Discussions underscored significant progress in capacity building and knowledge exchange, strengthening institutional capabilities and nurturing the next generation of R&D leaders. Widely regarded as a model for co-investment and shared responsibility, the partnership continues to enhance both technical expertise and leadership among early-career and senior scientists.
A key highlight was the continued adoption of co-design approaches, ensuring that research initiatives remain responsive to community needs while aligning with intended outcomes and engaging the most appropriate partners.
While the partnership remains strong, participants also identified opportunities for improvement, particularly in enhancing the communication of research results to stakeholders, an area that will be integrated into ongoing process refinements.
Reflecting on the activity, Dr. Newman noted that the PHC provides a valuable opportunity to recognize successes and identify areas for further strengthening. Dr. Ebora, meanwhile, expressed optimism for the partnership’s continued growth, anchored in a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and regional development.
DOST-PCAARRD-ACIAR partnership in AANR research and development. (Image credit: PCMD, DOST-PCAARRD)
The 6th PHC ultimately reaffirmed a partnership grounded in trust, strengthened through co-creation, and driven by shared accountability. DOST-PCAARRD and ACIAR remain committed to deepening their collaboration to deliver impactful, science-based solutions for sustainable development in the AANR sector.