Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) is prioritizing climate-resilient and technology-driven programs in its proposed PHP216.1-billion budget for 2026. During the budget deliberation of the Senate Committee on Finance Subcommittee J, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized that the proposed allocation represents a 'meaningful investment' in the country's food producers who continue to face challenges such as volatile commodity prices and extreme weather conditions.
According to Philippines News Agency, Laurel stated that the DA's budget for the coming year is not merely a numerical figure but a commitment to the nation's farmers and fisherfolk. The budget is anchored on three primary goals: modernization, income growth, and resiliency. The department plans to promote modernization through initiatives like farm mechanization, digital agriculture, and research-based technologies aimed at boosting yields and reducing production costs.
The DA also seeks to enhance income growth by improving market access, strengthening supply chains, and expanding support through the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund and other productivity programs. Meanwhile, resiliency efforts will focus on developing climate-proof infrastructure, investing in disaster preparedness, and cultivating climate-resilient crops to secure food supply in disaster-prone areas.
The DA reported a 4.49 percent growth in the agriculture and fisheries sector during the first half of 2025, with notable performances in crops and poultry, despite slight declines in livestock and fisheries. This sector contributed 8 percent to the national GDP, based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
To combat persistent poverty, the department highlighted a drop in poverty incidence among farmers and fisherfolk to 27.4 percent and 27 percent, respectively, in 2023. This reflects a steady improvement following significant declines over the past decade. The proposed 2026 budget allocates PHP112.7 billion for maintenance and operating expenses, PHP56.1 billion for capital outlay, and PHP7.9 billion for personnel services.
Laurel explained that the DA's agenda is aligned with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and the Bagong Pilipinas Framework, both aiming to enhance the productivity and resilience of the agriculture sector. He stressed that the budget is about fairness, urgency, and shared responsibility, urging collaboration to ensure that farmers and fisherfolk not only survive but thrive with dignity and progress.
