Agriculture

The government, led by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA), is stepping up coordinated efforts to tackle challenges facing the sugar industry, from destructive pests to rising costs and market competition. Under the direction of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the agencies are rolling out immediate support and policy reforms to secure production, sustain thousands of jobs, and keep fair prices and steady supplies for Filipino consumers.

A proposed tobacco-specific anti-illicit trade law could give Philippine authorities additional tools to pursue smaller shipments and target the machinery, raw materials and distribution networks used in illegal cigarette production, industry representatives said.

The government is stepping up preparations for the expected impact of Super El Niño, rolling out measures to protect farms, water supplies, power systems and communities from extreme heat and prolonged drought.

The National Food Authority (NFA) is leasing extra warehouse space in Victoria, Tarlac to buy more palay directly from local farmers and strengthen the government’s rice supply program.

The Department of Agriculture and Department of Public Works and Highways have partnered to build 29 farm-to-market roads across Mimaropa worth P430 million, marking a major step to cut costs and boost earnings for thousands of rural families.