Agriculture
DA bats for global “Bicol Cacao” brand at regional congress
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. is pushing to position “Bicol Cacao” as a globally recognized brand, citing the region’s ideal conditions and increasing recognition for premium beans and chocolate.
DA eyes quality shift as imported rice gains ground
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has instructed the Rice Industry Development Office (RIDO), led by Undersecretary Christopher Morales, to closely examine the apparent shift in Filipino rice preferences, as demand for imported rice—particularly Vietnamese varieties—continues to grow.
Agri stakeholders back PH rice import ban as Vietnam plans WTO complaint
Local agricultural groups have expressed support for the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) decision to implement a 60-day rice import ban starting 1 September, aimed at protecting rice farmers in the upcoming wet season harvest. However, reactions are mixed on Vietnam’s reported plan to challenge the move before the World Trade Organization (WTO).
DAR distributes farm machinery and equipment in Caraga
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has distributed ₱59.99 million worth of farm machinery, inputs, and renewable energy equipment to support agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in the Caraga region, particularly in Agusan del Sur.
DA seeks House backing for RTL revision
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has sought the support of the members of House of Representatives' committee on agriculture, chaired by Quezon Rep. Wilfrido Mark Enverga, to support proposed amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law—calling the RTL a well-meaning policy whose certain provisions had failed to protect Filipino rice farmers.
