The Philippine Genome Center has conducted DNA characterization of National Seed Industry Council (NSIC) – registered varieties that may potentially distinguish not just between coffee species but also within species or varieties. It also identified markers for pest and disease resistance, yield and aroma in Philippine specialty coffee varieties. Results from the study can later be used to improve the varieties, develop detection systems using molecular markers that can differentiate resistant from susceptible varieties of coffee, and to develop a diagnostic kit that will aid nursery operators or the plant nursery accreditation office to precisely identify the variety of the planting materials.
