SEARCA is one of the oldest among 26 specialist institutions of SEAMEO. Founded on 27 November 1966, SEARCA is mandated to strengthen institutional capacities in agricultural and rural development in Southeast Asia.
Framed by Sustainable Transformation of Agricultural Systems through Innovation in Southeast Asia (SUSTAIN Southeast Asia), SEARCA's 12th FYDP charts a progressive path for agri-food system transformation.
For six decades, SEARCA has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the 11 SEAMEO Member Countries in championing sustainable agricultural and rural development across Southeast Asia.
SEARCA is led by a Center Director, supported by two Deputy Directors. One Deputy Director, a non-Filipino from another SEAMEO member country, oversees programs. The other Deputy Director, a Filipino, manages administration.