Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) expressed optimism on Wednesday for a rebound in the country's agricultural production in the second quarter, following a slight contraction in agriculture and fisheries output in the first quarter.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that agriculture and fisheries production slipped 0.3 percent to PHP437.52 billion from January to March, based on constant 2018 prices.
In a news release, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stated that the improving rice output and steady gains in livestock and poultry are expected to offset the weak first quarter performance. "We are seeing encouraging signs on the ground, with rice production likely recovering in the second quarter as planting conditions normalize, palay prices improve, and government interventions take effect," he said.
Tiu Laurel emphasized that the slight contraction in agricultural output only indicates "temporary disruptions" and not a "structural drop." In the first quarter, crop production, which accounts for nearly 56 percent of total output, fell 2.4 percent to PHP243.62 billion, primarily due to a drop in rice production.
Palay (unhusked rice) output declined 6.26 percent to 4.4 million metric tons, reflecting the lingering impact of typhoons that hit late in 2025, as well as damaged irrigation systems. Tiu Laurel noted that softer farmgate prices before the government's temporary rice import restrictions from September to December also discouraged planting.
Fisheries output also contracted, with production value down 6.1 percent to PHP52.34 billion, indicating persistent structural and environmental challenges. Still, the broader picture showed pockets of resilience.
Livestock output rose 5.1 percent to PHP60.74 billion, with hog production up 6.4 percent, while poultry expanded 7.1 percent to PHP80.83 billion, supported by steady demand for affordable protein. "The continued strength of our livestock and poultry sectors is helping cushion overall output and providing stability to food supply," Tiu Laurel said.
Despite the positive outlook, the DA chief warned of the effects of tensions in the Middle East and the looming El Ni±o on agricultural output. "While we expect a stronger second quarter, the impact of higher oil prices on transport and inputs, particularly fertilizer, as well as the potential effects of an El Ni±o-induced drought, could weigh on production in the second half," he said.
He underscored the need for the timely and immediate delivery of government interventions to protect local production. Tiu Laurel stated that the outlook points to a gradual rebound, though "restoring crop output - particularly rice - will be key to stabilizing both farm incomes and consumer prices."
