| Desiree M. Hautea, Ph.D. in Plant Genetics and Breeding, has more than 20 years of training and experience in biotechnology (applications of molecular marker technologies, genetic engineering, genomics and new breeding techniques) and biosafety (policy, risk assessment and management, capacity building, IEC).  As Professor in UPLB, she pioneered the research and development of improved Philippine crop varieties using biotechnology tools, and instituted and taught formal courses in biotechnology, plant genetic resources and biosafety.  Dr. Hautea also held various national and international positions most notable of which are:  Director of the Institute of Plant Breeding, UPLB, Board member of the Plant Variety Protection Board and National Seed Industry Council of the Philippines.  She served as Technical Expert/Consultant, Scientific Reviewer and Resource Person in biotech and biosafety-related committees, panels, networks and task forces of the Republic of the Philippines Department of Agriculture (DA) and Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). She co-organized and conducted national and regional biotech and biosafety trainings and workshops and public awareness and communications activities. She has been an active participant in CBD COP/MOP processes and meetings since 2005 COP-MOP 2 in Montreal, Canada.