The Department of Agriculture (DA) of the Philippines is pushing for a significant increase in its 2026 budget, aiming to support a broader range of agricultural commodities beyond traditional staples like rice and corn.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has proposed a ₱500 billion annual budget, up from the current ₱200+ billion, to fund programs targeting high-value crops, fisheries, livestock, and infrastructure. He emphasized that a more diverse and well-funded approach is essential to boost food production, reduce import dependency, and support rural livelihoods.
The DA is also requesting a ₱10 billion allocation to continue the ₱20-per-kilo rice subsidy in 2026, doubling the ₱5 billion earmarked this year. An additional ₱5 billion has been proposed to strengthen the high-value crop development program.
Farmer groups and stakeholders have backed the proposal, highlighting the need to fund cold storage, irrigation, farm-to-market roads, and solar-powered systems, which are vital for productivity and reducing post-harvest losses.
The proposal is now under review by lawmakers. If approved, it could mark a major shift in Philippine agri-policy one focused on diversification, resilience, and inclusive growth.
Stay tuned for more updates as budget deliberations unfold.
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