September 25, 2024

 

Philippine's agriculture chief outlines strategy to modernise country's agriculture

 

 

Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. on September 16 outlined the Department of Agriculture's (DA) strategy to modernise Philippine agriculture through a series of initiatives aimed at boosting productivity, enhancing food security, and improving incomes of farmers and fishermen.

 

Speaking at a forum hosted by the influential Makati Business Club Inc., Laurel underscored the crucial role of government and private sector partnership to effectively address the urgent need to modernise various sectors of agriculture by mechanising farm processes, improving farm and post-harvest infrastructures, enhancing logistics, and adopting science-based strategies, alongside efforts to open up new markets, in the face of climate change and other challenges.

 

"This summit is a timely and essential platform for dialogue between government and the private sector," he said. "It is an opportunity to exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and develop strategies that will ensure food security in the country.

 

"Over the past few years, the Department of Agriculture has been steadfast in its efforts to enhance food production and ensure food security for all Filipinos," he added.

 

Laurel said that to foster involvement of agriculture stakeholders, the DA will form consultative councils which would meet monthly to help calibrate policy and programme directions to make them more responsive and timely.

 

The DA chief noted global food losses amounted to 14% between harvest and retail, with an additional 17% wasted at later stages.

 

In the Philippines, post-harvest losses for key crops can reach as much as 40%, primarily due to outdated infrastructure and inefficiencies, he added.

 

By adopting advanced technologies and modern farming practices, the DA seeks to transform traditional farming methods and significantly boost output.

 

"Our focus remains on boosting agricultural production to ensure accessibility to affordable, safe, and nutritious food while also developing agriculture and fisheries as profitable industries for all stakeholders in the value chain," Laurel said.

 

Enhancing logistics and using science-based strategies are also key to DA's development strategy.

 

Laurel added that developing an efficient logistics systems for both input and production output, including a resilient transport network like farm-to-market roads, tramlines, and seaports, is crucial to streamlining the movement of agricultural products, reducing costs, and eliminating barriers that hinder the flow of goods.

 

"Modernising the agri-fishery sector requires science and information-driven decision-making through digitalisation," Laurel said. "This seeks to equip stakeholders with advanced tools and technology, as well as real-time data thus enabling our farmers and fishermen make smarter, data-driven decisions."

 

Laurel also addressed the need to expand market access. He said opening up both local and international markets will provide new opportunities for Filipino farmers and enhance competitiveness, including overcoming barriers and promoting local products effectively.

 

Laurel stated that strategic initiatives are poised to drive significant advancements and position the Philippines as a leader in sustainable and productive farming practices.

 

- DA