|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. underscored technology’s pivotal role in transforming Philippine agriculture. Addressing key stakeholders, Sec. Tiu Laurel highlighted the pressing need for agricultural modernisation to tackle challenges exacerbated by an ageing farming population and to stimulate sustainable economic growth.
Despite employing nearly one-fifth of the Filipino workforce, agriculture contributes less than 10% to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Sec. Tiu Laurel pointed out that the sector, which once engaged a quarter of the population, now faces significant hurdles due to the advancing age of Filipino farmers, averaging 56 years old.
“The major challenge we confront is ensuring profitability in farming,” asserted the Secretary. “The solution lies in adopting technology-driven farming methods.”
Sec. Tiu Laurel cited successful local innovations in Hermosa and Dinalupihan, Bataan, where advancements like small water impounding systems, fertigation techniques, and drip irrigation have revolutionised crop production. These technologies demonstrate the potential to drastically reduce fertilizer use by up to 70% and cut water consumption by 30%, thereby enhancing resource efficiency and reducing costs for farmers.
Looking forward, the Agriculture Secretary expressed interest in scaling up agricultural practices through large-scale greenhouse facilities, drawing inspiration from South Korea’s extensive adoption of such technologies across 52,000 hectares. In contrast, only 500 hectares in the Philippines currently utilise greenhouse farming.
“I am personally committed to piloting these greenhouse technologies before promoting widespread adoption,” affirmed Sec. Tiu Laurel, highlighting his dedication to ensuring practical and effective modernisation of the agricultural sector.
The Secretary also emphasised the necessity for a paradigm shift in agricultural education, advocating for comprehensive training in modern farming techniques over traditional methods, which he referred to as “Bahay Kubo technology.” He emphasised the importance of equipping both landowners and tenants with the knowledge required to maximise productivity and income potential.
Underscoring the importance of robust crop insurance coverage to mitigate risks for farmers and bolster confidence in adopting new technologies, Sec. Tiu Laurel expressed optimism about the transformative impact of these initiatives on Philippine agriculture. He envisioned a future where technology and innovation drive increased productivity, profitability, and global competitiveness in the sector.
OpenGov reported that the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) have launched initiatives aimed at advancing Philippine agriculture and fisheries, focusing on modernising practices and supporting livelihoods.
BFAR’s “Masaganang Pangisdaan Tungo sa Maunlad na Ekonomiya” trained 70 fishermen in cutting-edge fishing technologies and government services, aiming to boost the fishing industry’s efficiency and sustainability.
At the 2nd National Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Exhibition (NAFTE), organised by DA, 46 exhibitors showcased innovative technologies to enhance productivity and sustainability in agriculture and fisheries. The event highlighted collaborations across government agencies and research institutions, promoting modern and suitable technologies crucial for economic development.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) is modernising its electronic database of farmers and fisherfolk to better plan and monitor agricultural projects valued at billions. Despite logistical challenges, DA aims to deploy 16,000 personnel nationwide to update data for approximately 10 million stakeholders, ensuring efficient assistance distribution and resource allocation in the sector.
Such efforts epitomise the Philippine government’s commitment to modernising agriculture and fisheries, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and promoting sustainable practices to enhance livelihoods, ensure food security, and drive socio-economic growth across the nation.
The strategic plan outlined by Sec. Tiu Laurel’s team focuses on enhancing agri-fishery production through increased mechanisation, improved post-harvest systems and infrastructure, efficient logistics for inputs and outputs, expanded market access, digitalisation, and strengthened partnerships with farmers, fisherfolk, and the private sector.
These strategies signify a strategic shift towards modernisation and sustainability, positioning Philippine agriculture as a cornerstone of economic growth and food security in the years ahead.
