(Image credit: PGC-UP Diliman)
Whole genome sequencing and bioinformatics analyses of Philippine traditional rice varieties (TRVs) are propelling efforts to identify genetic traits for high yield, improved nutrition, and climate resilience.
To harness the untapped potential of TRVs, the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) funded the project, “Mining the Diversity of the Philippine Traditional Rice Varieties through Whole Genome Sequencing and Bioinformatics.” Implemented by the University of the Philippines Los Banos - Philippine Genome Center for Agriculture (UPLB-PGC Agri), the initiative aims to characterize the genetic diversity and unique traits of Dinorado variety and other 1,000 traditional rice varieties using advanced genomics, RNA sequencing, and bioinformatics tools.
During the annual review, Project Leader Maria Genaleen Q. Diaz reported that 968 TRV seed samples and leaf tissues assembled by the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) are available for genome sequencing, with 27% already sequenced. The project also trained 45 staff and researchers in basic bioinformatics to strengthen local capacity in genomic data analysis.
To support long-term data management and accessibility, the project is developing a dedicated database that will consolidate and organize the large volume of genomic information generated from the TRVs.
S&T Consultant Desiree M. Hautea commended the project team for their progress. She further recommended strategies to strengthen phenotyping protocols, optimize project timelines, and enhance methodological rigor to ensure consistency, accuracy, and validity of project outputs.
During the program, Dr. Loida M. Perez of DA-PhilRice also reported the progress of a parallel project, “Traditional Rice Phenotypes and Trait Genetic Mapping,” which focuses on the phenotyping of 1,001 Philippine TRVs.” The project evaluates key traits associated with early maturity, herbicide tolerance, anaerobic germination tolerance, and nutritional quality that includes iron, zinc, protein, essential amino acids, and low phytic acid content. Supported by the DA–National Rice Program, both initiatives work hand in hand on whole genome sequencing and bioinformatics analyses of TRVs by integrating phenotypic and genomic data to identify valuable traits for improved yield, nutrition, and climate resilience.
CRD Director Leilani D. Pelegrina expressed her appreciation for the team’s dedication in unlocking the genomic potential of Philippine TRVs and advancing genomics-driven rice research in the country.
The annual review was attended by representatives from the UPLB-PGC Agriculture and collaborating institutions, including the UP Diliman-Philippine Genome Center (UP Diliman-PGC), Philippine Rice Research Institute of the Department of Agriculture (DA-PhilRice), and International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). Other representatives from DOST-PCAARRD included Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) Manager for Rice Alvin Quiel C. Sabanal; Assistant Head of Program Monitoring and Evaluation, Mr. Joel Norman R. Panganiban, and staff from the Office of the Executive Director for Research and Development.