In photo from L-R: Engr. Lorenzo A. Moron (Weather Services Chief, NCR-Regional Services Division, DOST-PAGASA), Ms. Thelma Cinco (Weather Services Chief Climatology and Agrometeorology Division, DOST-PAGASA), Ms. Ma. Elena Tan (Assistant Weather Services Chief, DOST-PAGASA), Dr. Jon Hellin, Dr. Alice Laborte, Ms. Rowena Castillo, Dr. Nathaniel Servando (DOST-PAGASA Administrator)

Manila, Philippines, 23 March 2026 — The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) has been recognized with the prestigious Wind Vane Award from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), honoring its contributions to strengthening climate services for agriculture in the Philippines.

The award was conferred during PAGASA’s 161st anniversary and the 76th World Meteorological Day celebration, themed “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow.” The Wind Vane Awards recognize institutions and individuals that have significantly supported PAGASA’s mandate and helped build public trust in weather and climate services.

IRRI received the recognition for its work in delivering climate information services (CIS) to rice farmers through the Climate+ initiative under the CGIAR Climate Action Science Program. By translating PAGASA’s weather and climate data into practical, location-specific agro-advisories, IRRI has helped farmers make better decisions on planting, irrigation, and risk management, especially in the face of increasing climate variability.

Representing IRRI at the ceremony were Dr. Alice Laborte, Ms. Rowena Castillo, and Dr. Jon Hellin, who accepted the award on behalf of the institute.

“Access to timely and reliable climate information can make the difference between crop success and failure,” said Dr. Laborte. “This recognition underscores the value of strong partnerships between research institutions like IRRI and DOST-PAGASA in translating climate data into timely, actionable advisories that help farmers make better decisions on when to plant, fertilize, irrigate and harvest, managing risk and improving outcomes. We share this award with our partners, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Offices in Bicol and Cagayan Valley, Philippine Rice Research Institute, DA-Agricultural Training Institute, and Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, whose collaboration has been invaluable in delivering climate-informed advisories where they are needed the most. We also thank the farmers, whose continued engagement ensure these innovations translate into real impact on the ground.”

Through Climate+, IRRI works closely with PAGASA to bridge the gap between scientific forecasts and on-the-ground farming decisions. The initiative focuses on making climate data easier to understand and use, enabling farmers to adapt to changing weather patterns and reduce risks.

Dr. Hellin emphasized that such collaborations are key to building resilient rice-based systems. “Climate change is already affecting rice production. By co-developing advisories with PAGASA and local partners, we ensure that farmers receive information that is not only accurate but also relevant to their daily practices.”

The recognition further underscores IRRI’s commitment to supporting climate-smart agriculture across the Philippines and beyond. By integrating science, technology, and local knowledge, IRRI continues to empower farming communities to adapt, thrive, and sustain rice production in a changing climate.

As PAGASA celebrates its long-standing role in safeguarding lives and livelihoods through weather and climate services, IRRI’s award highlights the growing importance of partnerships that turn data into meaningful action for farmers.