AI seen to improve food security, boost agri employment

The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture and fisheries is expected to improve the country's food security and even entice the youth to venture in the sector, according to experts.

- By JASPER EMMANUEL ARCALAS

Various researchers on AI emphasized that the technology would ease various farming practices, resulting in more efficient processes that would lead to higher yield, lesser wastage and better farmers' welfare.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) said that AI is necessary in digitalizing farm practices that would lead to sustainable agricultural production and better welfare for farmers.

"The urgency for digital transformation is underscored by the looming challenges such as food scarcity, economic fluctuations and supply chain disruptions," said Honorio Flameño, the DA's information and communication technology service director, during the first day of the University of the Philippines' two-day conference on AI.

One of the key projects highlighted during the conference was Fish-I that could be used in assessing fish stocks in various water bodies in the country.