Section 5Sec./Art. 5

Powers and Functions of the PRRI. - The PRRI shall have the following powers and functions:

(a)Propagate and promote the planting, maintenance, as well as wise utilization of rubber trees as source of latex and finished rubber products;

(b)Enable rubber producers and processors, especially smallholders, to have access to quality rubber tree seedlings, modern production techniques and other support services from production to marketing of rubber produce;

(c)Undertake training and capacity-building programs for rubber producers, processors and cooperatives in order to increase production of quality rubber and raise level of income especially of poor smallholders;

(d)Aid in the establishment of village-based rubber enterprises to generate livelihood opportunities and improve general well-being of the large percentage of the workforce in agricultural communities;

(e)Promote cooperative development among smallholders and provide them access to resources, technological know-how, as well as decision-making processes for the enhancement of their rubber enterprises and the protection of their welfare;

(f)Initiate research and development projects on rubber in order to address technology and policy gaps in promoting a robust rubber industry, ensuring standard in production and meeting demands for quality rubber in both domestic and international trade; and

(g)Enter into memoranda of agreement and receive grants from local and foreign funding agencies through the DA upon the recommendation of the PRRI Advisory Board; or through the respective academic boards of satellite units housed in concerned state universities and colleges upon the recommendation of the PRRI Advisory Board.