Agriculture
DA widens P20 rice push in Manila, expands KADIWA
The Department of Agriculture (DA) is widening access to affordable rice and basic food staples in Manila, scaling up the KADIWA ng Pangulo and the P20 “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” rice program as part of a broader push to strengthen food security in this densely populated Philippine capital.
DA tightens watch on farm-to-market roads to boost rural economy
The Department of Agriculture (DA) is stepping up oversight of farm-to-market road (FMR) projects to make sure public funds lead to real, long-lasting benefits for farmers and fisherfolk—lower costs, better incomes, and stronger rural development.
247,000 MT rice imports in stock as gov’t balances supply and farmer protection
More than 247,000 metric tons (MT) of imported rice have been in stock as of January 22, 2026, according to data from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), underscoring the government’s efforts to manage food supply while protecting local farmers.
DA chief open to limited rice imports from Pakistan, eyes broader trade ties
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the Philippines may allow limited rice imports from Pakistan as part of efforts to diversify suppliers and expand trade links, following a meeting with a visiting Pakistani delegation.
DA urges more investment in livestock, priority crops
The Department of Agriculture (DA) called on farmers and local governments to invest more in livestock and key crops to reduce the Philippines’ heavy reliance on food imports, Agriculture undersecretary for operations Roger Navarro said on Wednesday.
