Manila: Better weather conditions and intensified government initiatives fueled a strong recovery in the agriculture and fisheries sector, which posted a 5.7 percent year-on-year growth in the second quarter of 2025.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Agriculture (DA) announced that the sector's total value rose to PHP437.53 billion, marking a sharp turnaround from the -3.2 percent contraction year-on-year. The data, sourced from the Philippine Statistics Authority, highlights the progress made in the sector.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized that the data signifies the administration's alignment with its food security targets. He acknowledged the need for further efforts to achieve President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s vision of a modern agricultural sector benefiting farmers and fisherfolk. Laurel pointed to reforms under the Rice Tariffication Law, enhanced disease control measures, and increased investments in infrastructure, logistics, and research and development as catalysts for the rebound.

Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa highlighted improved farming technologies and the distribution of high-yielding crop varieties as key elements driving the sector's recovery. Crop production led the growth with an 11.3 percent increase to PHP244.9 billion, in contrast to the 1 percent growth in the first quarter and a -8.6 percent decline during the same period last year. The poultry sector also made significant contributions, with a 7 percent rise amounting to PHP75.07 billion.

The agriculture chief conveyed optimism about the Philippines' continued recovery through the end of 2025. He noted that the strong rebound in the first quarter is expected to persist, projecting continuous growth for the remainder of the year.