The Department of Agriculture (DA) is committed to realizing the vision of a Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s (PBBM) administration by implementing various programs to achieve food sufficiency and higher incomes for farmers and fisherfolk. The Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) has aligned its initiatives with the administration’s goals, demonstrating significant strides in enhancing the country’s agricultural sector.
Commitment to Food Security
Established in 1930, the DA-BPI has been at the forefront of advancing the country’s plant industry to ensure food security. It provides services and assistance to Filipino farmers and consumers through supporting agricultural production and ensuring that affordable and nutritious food is accessible to all Filipinos. The DA-BPI strives to value and satisfy the needs of stakeholders in research and development, production support, and regulatory services.
Innovative Agricultural Technologies
In line with the President’s call for modernization, DA-BPI has been taking initiatives to introduce agricultural technologies to Filipino farmers. The Bureau plans to introduce smart farming solutions that utilize data and technology to optimize agricultural production. These innovations aim to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase yields for farmers. To start, DA-BPI has provided indoor cultivation systems in urban areas and its research centers to demonstrate its capacity to modernize the agricultural sector.
Boosting Farmers’ Profitability
In line with President Marcos Jr.’s thrust towards a profitable agricultural sector, DA-BPI opened its doors to the “Kadiwa Center” in May 2024. Since its launch, sales reached 2 million pesos and served over 1,000 customers weekly. This initiative opens up new opportunities for farmers to sell their products at better prices, enhancing their income and livelihoods.
In support of the initiative spearheaded by PBBM and DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. to provide high-quality rice at an affordable price, the DA-BPI was selected to be one of the trial launch sites for the large-scale “P29” project of the Department. The P29 program was designed to support vulnerable groups in our community by selling rice at 29.00 pesos per kilo for targeted beneficiaries, including senior citizens, single parents, persons with disabilities (PWD), and beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).
In 2023, DA-BPI successfully expanded bilateral relations, gaining access to both local and international markets. This expansion included notable achievements such as exporting 3,696 metric tons of Philippine fresh durian worth USD 22,000,000 to China, and shipping Philippine fresh Hass avocados to Korea, totaling 3,040 boxes valued at USD 48,433. Additionally, 1,500 kilograms of Philippine fresh mangoes from Davao were sent to Australia, and 22,500 kilograms of Philippine pili nuts (both in shell and without) were exported to Germany. These accomplishments significantly contribute to the ongoing efforts to secure bilateral and multilateral trade agreements with other countries.
Advancements in Plant Health and Safety
Ensuring the health and safety of plant products remains a top priority for DA-BPI. The agency has intensified its efforts in monitoring and controlling plant pests and diseases, safeguarding both local agriculture and exports. BPI’s National Plant Quarantine Services Division has been vigilant in inspecting and regulating the entry of plant products into the country, preventing the spread of harmful pests and diseases.
Additionally, BPI has been proactive in promoting Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) among farmers. By adhering to GAP standards, farmers can produce safe and high-quality food, which is essential for both domestic consumption and export markets. In response to the growing demand for food safety, the country’s first Mobile Plant Food Safety Laboratory was launched on April 11, 2024. This mobile laboratory exemplifies DA-BPI’s commitment to advancing food safety testing and management. It allows the Bureau to bring essential food safety services directly to consumers and stakeholders.
Support for Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture
Recognizing the importance of urban agriculture in addressing food security, BPI has actively supported the DA’s National Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture Program (DA-NUPAP). This program aims to promote food production in urban areas through the establishment of community gardens and the use of innovative techniques such as controlled environment agriculture and hydroponics.
Through partnerships with local government units and community organizations, BPI has helped set up numerous urban gardens across Metro Manila and nearby cities. These gardens not only provide fresh produce to urban dwellers but also serve as technology-demonstration sites for promoting urban farming practices.
Collaborative Efforts for Agricultural Development
DA-BPI’s achievements have been supported by its collaborative efforts with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector. These partnerships have enabled the implementation of agricultural development programs that address the multifaceted challenges faced by the sector. Notable partnerships of the Bureau include the Korea Partnership for Innovation of Agriculture (KOPIA), the Asian Food and Food Cooperation Initiative (AFACI), the World Vegetable Center, and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR).
The DA-Bureau of Plant Industry has made significant strides in driving food security and agricultural development in the Philippines. By building on its successes and continuously striving for improvement, the Bureau will continue in advancing the goals of the Department of Agriculture under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. toward a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector for the benefit of all Filipinos.
