This paper briefly reviews the history of hermetic storage. It also presents the results of trials conducted in the Philippines that evaluated the applicability of the use of gas-tight flexible plastic sheeting developed in Israel for modified and gas-tight storage of dry paddy and maize stacked in the open. By using the method, the objective was to develop environmentally and user-friendly temporary or emergency grain storage facilities without the requirement of chemical pesticides, for use by farmers' organizations, cooperatives, grain processors and other intermediary parties where security reserve stocks must be maintained, yet permanent storage structures are lacking or inadequate. The studies showed that gas-tight storage provides adequate protection by maintaining the number of live insects and damaged kernels below the threshold of economic damage. Weight losses in both rice and maize stacks remained minimal while seed viability was preserved. No increase in the level of aflatoxin was n
oted in the hermetically sealed stacks of maize. The duration of storage ranged from 3 to 6 months. Experiences in the commercialization of the technology in farmers' cooperatives are highlighted. Lastly, future prospects for further application of the technique are outlined.