The Philippines currently hosts the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), which studies high yielding rice varieties. It has played a key role in the Green Revolution and was able to increase rice yields and rice production during the 1970s. “The agricultural sector sees the involvement of about two-thirds or more than 40% of Filipinos. Rice remains the most important agricultural product. In order to increase the economic growth of the country, the Filipinos rely on major products such as coconuts (copra and coconut oil), abaca (Manila hemp), tobacco, and sugar for export purposes. The island republic is, however, diversifying from agricultural and mineral product exports into higher value manufactured and luxury goods such as electronics, apparel and clothing accessories as well as computer-related products.” (http://www.marimari.com/cOnTENT/philippines/general_info/economy.html)
Predominantly agricultural, the Philippine economy has grown in the manufacturing sector since the 1960s. During the mid-90's, 46 percent of the work force was comprised of those in agriculture, fishing and forestry. These areas also