MANILA – On Thursday, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. commended the significant contributions of Philippine agricultural attaches stationed around the world for their role in increasing the country’s agricultural exports. These diplomats, positioned in key markets such as Japan, South Korea, Thailand, China, the United Arab Emirates, Italy, Belgium, Switzerland, and the United States, have been instrumental in forging vital international partnerships.
Secretary Tiu Laurel highlighted that their efforts have led to export deals worth tens of billions of pesos, significantly supporting the Philippine farm and fishery sectors. He noted that these achievements are crucial in reducing the nation’s agricultural trade deficit and enhancing relations with international partners, which directly benefits millions of Filipino farmers and fisherfolk.
Notable export achievements include securing around USD1.6 billion in sales and pledges at the China International Import Expo, over PHP1.5 billion in sales and potential sales of PHP3.5 billion with Malaysia at the Thaifex ANUGA 2024 in Thailand, PHP361 million at FOODEX Japan 2024 and the International Seafood Show Tokyo 2024, PHP297.27 million at Seoul Food 2024 in South Korea, and PHP10.3 million plus PHP84.97 million in negotiated agreements at AgraME 2023 in the United Arab Emirates.
The key products driving these exports include durian, Hass avocados, bananas, Guimaras mangoes, pineapples, coconuts, pili nuts, shrimp paste, and coffee. Beyond direct sales, the Department of Agriculture has also secured additional official development assistance and technical cooperation projects to further boost the Philippine agri-fishery trade. These efforts include collaborations on rainmaking technology and agricultural cooperatives, as well as opportunities to present investment proposals at the World Food Forum and participate in important policy and trade forums.
The dedicated agricultural attaches recognized for their efforts include Annalyn Lopez, Jerome Bunyi, Nolet Fulgencio, Marlito Cabunos, Dr. Josyline Javelosa, Lev Nikko Macalintal, Maria Alilia Maghirang, and Lupiño Lazaro Jr.