October 23, 2024

 

Philippines seeks partnership with Italy to boost fisherfolk employment and agricultural collaboration

The Philippine government is exploring a partnership with Italy to provide opportunities for Filipino fisherfolk, particularly for potential employment in Italy's fishing industry, The Philippine Star reported.

 

This initiative was discussed during a recent meeting between Philippines' Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr and Italian Minister of Agriculture Francesco Lollobrigida.

 

One key topic of discussion was the possibility of skilled Filipino fisherfolk working in Italy. According to the Department of Agriculture (DA), Minister Lollobrigida extended Italy's invitation for Filipino fishermen to contribute to its fishing sector, while also creating valuable employment opportunities for workers from the Philippines.

 

During the meeting, Tiu Laurel expressed optimism in expanding the country's agricultural exports to Italy. Products such as tuna and frozen fish are in growing demand, driven by the increasing Filipino population in Italy.

 

In 2022, the Philippines exported US$129 million worth of agricultural goods to Italy, with coconut oil leading the list, according to DA data. The department noted that the Filipino community in Italy, now estimated at 200,000, has spurred demand for Philippine food products. Small and medium-sized enterprises have also formed the Philippine Chamber of Commerce in Italy, promoting Filipino cuisine to the local population.

 

Additionally, Tiu Laurel encouraged Italian businesses to invest in the Philippine agriculture sector, especially in infrastructure and technology, which could support the modernisation of the country's farming practices. He highlighted Italy's expertise in smart agriculture technologies and irrigation systems, aligning with the Philippines' goal of agro-industrialisation and climate-resilient agriculture.

 

"Italy's agricultural machinery industry is world-class, and the Philippines can greatly benefit from this expertise as we modernise our agricultural sector," Tiu Laurel stated.

 

The two countries also discussed a draft memorandum of understanding aimed at boosting productivity and advancing agro industrialisation in the Philippines. A potential collaboration with Italy's national federation of agricultural machinery manufacturers was among the proposals, focusing on the adoption of Italian-made machinery in the Philippines' agriculture sector.

"Our partnership in agriculture reflects the shared vision of our two nations. We look forward to finalising our agreements and ensuring sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems," Tiu Laurel remarked.

 

The DA noted that the Philippines and Italy have maintained a bilateral relationship for at least 77 years.

 

-      The Philippine Star