Agriculture
DA deploys rice masterlist to support expanded beneficiaries
The Department of Agriculture is set to launch the P20 Benteng Bigas Masterlist (PBBM) registry system, a digital platform aimed at streamlining the operation and improve oversight of the "Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!”—the flagship food program of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The registry system, developed by the DA-Information and Communications Technology Service, will be launched as part of the broader celebration of Rice Awareness Month.
P20 rice takes center stage at Intramuros Agri Expo
The Department of Agriculture (DA) will sell rice at P20 per kilo during the Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) Expo 2025, happening from 28 to 30 November this year in Intramuros, Manila. Officials say this will be the largest Metro Manila rollout of the program so far, aimed at helping vulnerable groups such as farmers, fisherfolk, transport workers, and low-income households.
NIA sets public talks on Nueva Ecija water project
The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) is moving forward with plans for a major water impounding project in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has scheduled a public scoping session from 3 - 4 December 2025 to brief residents and gather feedback.
DA seeks stronger hydropower-agriculture link
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Wednesday called for stronger coordination between the country’s hydropower and agriculture plans, saying water-based energy projects can boost food security, support rural development, and help the Philippines hit its renewable-energy targets.
No resurgence of ASF despite isolated case in Quezon City
The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Thursday confirmed that African swine fever (ASF) cases in the Philippines remain low, despite an isolated detection in Quezon City.
