The Philippines and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations have reaffirmed their long-standing partnership to transform agrifood systems and strengthen food security in Southeast Asia.
In a high-level meeting in Manila, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and FAO Assistant Director-General Dr. Alue Dohong aligned priorities on climate resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth. Tiu Laurel emphasized the country’s commitment to move from planning to concrete action, with FAO’s support through technical expertise and guidance.
Key areas of cooperation include climate-smart agriculture, digital solutions, and youth-led innovations, which the Philippines will showcase at the World Food Forum 2025. The country also pledged high-level participation in FAO’s 80th anniversary celebrations and offered to host the 39th FAO Regional Conference for Asia and the Pacific (APRC) in 2028.
The DA also confirmed it will host the Regional Conference on Agricultural Mechanization in 2026. The upcoming Country Programming Framework (2025–2031) will be aligned with national development goals, aiming to deliver tangible results for farmers, fishers, and rural communities.
The renewed partnership signals the country’s intent to become a regional hub for agrifood innovation and knowledge exchange.
