The Philippine Rice Information System (PRiSM) received the Special Award for Sustainability from the International Data Corporation Singapore (IDC) at the Regional Future Enterprise Awards on November 19, 2024.
The Future Enterprise Awards (FEA) celebrate outstanding organizations in the Asia Pacific region that spearhead digital transformation initiatives. Awardees are distinguished for their innovative technologies, which tackle significant challenges and promote sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across the region.
This year’s distinguished winners highlight the power of transformative technology in addressing the most pressing social, economic, and business challenges. PRiSM, a vital project funded by the Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA), was recognized for establishing and sustaining a comprehensive nationwide information system. This system delivers timely, accurate rice production data, empowering stakeholders nationwide. The insights gained from this application enhance research and development initiatives and inform crucial policy and decision-making related to rice production and food security. Moreover, it provides an essential framework for continuously monitoring rice crop production and estimating losses from various threats, including floods and droughts. In the Philippines, it has helped the DA monitor rice production and prepare for and mitigate the effects of disasters such as typhoons and El Niño on rice areas.
Dr. Alice Laborte, IRRI-PRiSM project leader and Geospatial Scientist, emphasized the importance of collaboration in PRISM’s success: “This award is a testament to the strong partnership between IRRI, PhilRice, and our collaborators. With co-development, a shared commitment to long-term sustainability, and unwavering support from the Department of Agriculture, PRISM has become an operational success, delivering timely data on rice areas, yields, and damage assessments—critical information that supports informed decision-making.
The FEA winners were announced during the IDG Technology Symposium & Awards, held at the esteemed Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.