Fostering Resilience: Assessing the Role of Green Public Procurement in Strengthening the Agricultural Sector at the Philippine Rice Research Institute

This study investigates how Green Public Procurement (GPP) can strengthen the resilience of the rice sector in the Philippines, highlighting sustainability - with the primary efforts of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) being centered in the research. The Philippines, a major rice-producing country, has undergone several troubles and challenges in the mentioned commodity production such as environmental degradation, unpredictable weather patterns caused by climate change, and various social and economic susceptibility. GPP offers a strategic approach to addressing these issues by promoting agricultural practices that reduce negative environmental impact while supporting local economies. Through qualitative methods such as key informant interviews, field observations, and secondary data analysis, the study assesses how DA-PhilRice's GPP strategy—including sustainable farming techniques, pest management, and climate-resilient technologies—contributes to agricultural sustainability. It also highlights key challenges such as institutional barriers, market volatility, and resistance to innovation, while evaluating the broader market impacts of GPP on pricing and access for farmers. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders offering recommendations to improve GPP frameworks and strengthen the agricultural sector's resilience through enhanced sustainability practices and stakeholder engagement in the Philippines.