The Philippines has officially committed to take part in the International Horticultural Expo 2027 in Yokohama, Japan, the Department of Agriculture (DA) announced. Confirmed during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s state visit to Japan, the participation follows a contract signing on May 25 led by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., who also chairs the country’s organizing committee. Far beyond a standard exhibit, this move strengthens agricultural and economic bonds between the two nations, while positioning the event as a key venue to showcase climate-resilient farming solutions.
Japan stands as the world’s major food importer, spending about $90 billion yearly on agri-fishery goods, and is the Philippines’ second-biggest market for farm exports, which hit $1.1 billion in 2025. Popular Filipino products such as bananas, pineapples, coconut items, seafood, mangoes, and ube are already widely trusted and consumed by Japanese households.
Under the theme Bukás: Gardens of the Bayanihan Spirit—matching the expo’s focus on “Scenery of the Future for Happiness”—the Philippine pavilion and garden will occupy 436 square meters. “Bukás” means open, reflecting the country’s readiness for collaboration, innovation, and partnership. The display will feature Filipino culture, traditional knowledge, rich biodiversity, sustainable farming, and modern technologies suited to a climate-vulnerable nation.
The expo, running March 19 to September 26, 2027, will also function as a business and innovation hub. It will connect Japanese investors, tech providers, retailers, and logistics firms with local farmers and exporters. The event is expected to expand sales of high-value goods including coffee, cacao, durian, avocado, calamansi, and abaca, while opening new doors for floriculture, ornamental plants, and natural fibers in the Japanese market.
Thie participation advances trade goals, promotes sustainable agriculture policies, and leverages a major existing export market to drive income and opportunity for Filipino producers, while highlighting the country’s role in global food security and climate action.
