President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. handed over the reins as the Department of Agriculture (DA) Chief to fishing tycoon Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.
Laurel is the president of Frabelle Fishing Corporation.
“Pangunahing adhikain ko ang pagtiyak na sagana ang ating ani at siguraduhing ito ay nakakarating sa hapag ng bawat Pilipino. Layunin ko na tiyakin na may sapat at masustansyang pagkain na mabibili ang ating mga kababayan sa tamang halaga (My main goal is to ensure that our harvest is abundant and make sure that it reaches the table of every Filipino. My goal is to ensure that there is enough and healthy food that our countrymen can buy at the right price),” Laurel said in a short speech during the announcement of his new post.
The new DA chief was born in 1966, a year after his parents, Francis and Bella Tiu-Laurel, established Frabelle as a small trawl fishing company in the Philippines. Laurel also spent 45 days aboard their fishing vessels and traveled to other countries to learn more about the industry.
Eventually, he helped lead the company to extend its market to various continents across the globe. Laurel also serves as the President of the Agusan Power Corporation and Chairman of the World Tuna Purse Seine Organization.
His familiarity with the fisheries sector is why the president confidently appointed the position to Laurel. Additionally, Marcos believes Laurel’s background in the private sector and connections will benefit the DA.
“Malapit sa puso ko ang mga kapatid nating magsasaka at mangingisda dahil personal kong natunghayan ang mga hirap at pangarap nila. Asahan po ninyong laging bukas ang aking tanggapan para sa inyong lahat (My brothers and sisters who are farmers and fishermen are close to my heart because I have personally seen their struggles and dreams. Please expect my office to always be open for all of you),” the new DA chief said.