SEARCA sets Nov. 30 deadline for photo contest

PHOTO enthusiasts have until November 30 to submit their entries for the 2020 edition of the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (Searca) photo competition showcasing agricultural innovation. Held annually since 2006 by the University of the Philippines Los Baños-based Searca, this year’s photo contest theme is “Faces of Accelerating Transformation through Agricultural Innovation.” The competition is open to Filipinos, as well as nationals of other Asean countries plus Timor-Leste. “We are looking for striking images of agricultural innovation,” Searca Director Glenn Gregorio said. He noted that images must show people taking part in activities that contribute to food and nutrition security, sustainable farming systems and natural resource management, agribusiness for increased productivity and income, enhanced agricultural and rural development (ARD) toward climate resilience, gender and youth engagement in ARD, EcoHealth/One Health applications to ARD and transformational leadership in ARD. He added that winners would receive $1,000, $800 and $500 as the top three prizes, while a People’s Choice award will receive $200. Winners of the Department of Education Secretary’s Choice and the Searca Director’s Choice will both receive $500 as well.