DR. CHARITO MEDINA

Dr. Charito P. Medina or Dok Chito, as he is known to family, friends, and colleagues, is an environmental biologist and agroecologist. As a scientist, he is notably dedicated to challenging the corporate-driven farming system, advocating instead for a people-led farming system focused on food security rather than profit. 

He promotes organic diversified farming, climate-resilient appropriate technology, and the strengthening of farmer organizations. As the National Coordinator of MASIPAG, he exemplified his unwavering commitment to pursuing justice and rights for marginalized sectors.

His collaboration with farmers, civil society organizations, and government agencies reflects his dedication to imparting knowledge and fostering environmental protection, climate change adaptation, and agricultural sustainability. His work with the Philippine Network for Food Security Programmes involves mentoring and consulting on sustainable agriculture and food security projects.

Dr. Medina actively advocated for environmental protection and agricultural sustainability by collaborating with government agencies and civil society, ensuring grassroots involvement. He successfully led the campaign for the Writ of Kalikasan, which the Supreme Court granted to protect 500,000 hectares of rice fields from genetically engineered hybrid rice, thereby preserving native organic varieties. Despite potential appeals, his team reinforced the case. Dr. Medina also developed training modules on agroecology with organizations like the Climate Change Network and MASIPAG, promoting sustainable practices. His experiences in traditional and scientific farming continued to inspire efforts toward food security and sovereignty.