Los Baños, Philippines, May 20, 2024 – An innovative collaboration has been solidified as Good Neighbors International (GNI) and The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), a distinguished nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing global food security, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This historic event marked the inauguration of an International Cooperation aimed at advancing global food security, sustainable agriculture, climate change resilience, and community development. In light of the increasing impact of El Niño and La Niña on rice production—El Niño causing severe droughts that reduce crop yields and La Niña bringing heavy rains and flooding that can damage crops—this cooperation is more crucial than ever. These climate challenges significantly affect our farmers, the backbone of our food systems, who play a crucial role in ensuring food security. We are excited to innovate further to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change by introducing drought- and flood-resistant rice varieties developed by IRRI.