In a significant gesture of international solidarity, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. praised the South Korean government for its substantial rice donation to the Philippines, aiding in the recovery from the devastating effects of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine in 2024. The donation, amounting to 4,000 metric tons, was ceremonially distributed in Batangas on February 3, 2025, and is intended to support residents in the Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, and Bicol regions.
Secretary Tiu Laurel highlighted the timeliness of the donation amidst rising food prices, stating it would significantly assist the Philippine government’s efforts to support calamity-stricken areas. The rice, arriving in two batches since December 2024, is part of the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve’s Tier 3 program.
South Korean Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa emphasized the donation’s broader significance, describing it as a symbol of cooperation between the two nations in enhancing food security and disaster resilience. This gesture comes at a critical time for the Philippines, which saw a decline in palay production to 19.08 million metric tons in 2024 from 20.06 million metric tons the previous year, due to multiple natural disasters and climatic phenomena.
Looking forward, the Department of Agriculture remains optimistic about recovering local production, targeting 20.4 million metric tons for 2025 with increased support to farmers. Meanwhile, Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian expressed gratitude for the donation and assured its swift distribution to those affected by Tropical Storm Kristine. He emphasized the importance of international partnerships in aiding recovery efforts and ensuring a resilient future for Filipinos.