Los Banos, Laguna (25 June 2025) - International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Davao Unmanned Aerial Solutions (DUAS) strengthened their longstanding partnership by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at IRRI Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna. This agreement aims to expand the strategic use of drone technology in institutional security, operational preparedness, and capacity building. The partnership also opened opportunities to leverage technology for joint research and innovation initiatives in support of IRRI’s broader mission.
As a leading drone technology company, DUAS has worked closely with IRRI for over a decade. Together, they have engaged in initiatives such as aerial monitoring of experimental farms and training drone pilots for various research and safety operations. This formalized partnership builds upon that strong foundation, creating a cooperative framework for innovation and capacity building.
Under the terms of the new agreement, DUAS will provide certified drone pilot training programs tailored for IRRI staff, particularly within the Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE) department and access to latest drone technology. This initiative is designed to enhance IRRI's operational readiness while broadening the application of drone solutions in research, surveillance, and emergency response.
In a spirit of collaboration, IRRI will welcome DUAS to its Los Baños campus for training and drone operations, offering access to lodging, cafeteria facilities, and designated flying zones. Additionally, DUAS will have the opportunity to utilize IRRI’s HSSE training facilities and work together on designing workshops and joint activities.
Moreover, the engagement sparked discussions about the potential application of the technology in the research initiatives at IRRI. These conversations focused on exploring innovative ways to integrate the technology into ongoing projects and enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of research efforts aimed at improving rice varieties and agricultural practices.
“This agreement represents our mutual commitment to achieving operational excellence and resilience,” said IRRI Director General Yvonne Pinto. “By leveraging advanced technology, we can collaboratively build systems and skills that enhance our ability to respond effectively, work efficiently, and explore new possibilities in agricultural research.”
The partnership encompasses joint initiatives to promote innovation and facilitate knowledge exchange regarding the legal, regulatory, and technical aspects of drone operations. With a foundation of trust and shared objectives, the IRRI–DUAS initiative will advance the integration of drone solutions in global agriculture and support institutions in these efforts.