The country’s agricultural production will be continually boosted with the strengthened cooperation with Italy, according to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

In a statement on Monday, the Department of Agriculture (DA) reported an agreement on a draft memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Philippines and Italy during the World Food Day celebrations last Oct. 16 in Rome.

“Italy’s agricultural machinery industry is world-class, and the Philippines can greatly benefit from this expertise as we modernize our agricultural sector,” Tiu Laurel said.

The draft partnership, which was presented during the meeting with Italian Minister of Agriculture Francesco Lollobrigida, aims to support the agro-industrialization of Filipino farmers.

Besides this, Tiu Laurel also cited proposals to expand exports to include tuna, pineapples, frozen fish, carrageenan, and desiccated coconut; more Italian business investments in the Philippines for modernization and smart agriculture; as well as the possibility of increasing food trade and work opportunities for skilled Filipino fishers in Italy.

“Our partnership in agriculture reflects the shared vision of our two nations. We look forward to finalizing our agreements and ensuring sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems,” Tiu Laurel said.

To date, the Philippines has recorded USD129 million worth of agricultural exports to Italy, alongside the rising demand for Philippine food products due to the increasing Filipino community, now at 200,000, and the demand for Philippine cuisine among Italians.

Partnership with FAO

Tiu Laurel, meanwhile, highlighted “strategic investment plans” in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), with select commodity targets including abaca, bamboo, mango, and seaweeds.

“We are keen to develop our agriculture sector through increased trade and investment. The Philippines is dedicated to creating sustainable livelihoods for our farmers and fisherfolk,” he said during an earlier meeting with FAO Director-General Dr. Qu Dongyu.

Tiu Laurel said the concerned sectors will help “create jobs, boost the country’s economy, and promote sustainable development.”

The agriculture chief also cited prioritizing direct support to Filipino farmers, the establishment of cold storage, farm-to-market roads, and irrigation amid challenges of natural disasters.

For his part, Qu assured FAO’s commitment to assist the Philippines in securing access to pandemic funds under the World Bank; boost these sectors, and help realize the country’s general food security target.

“FAO stands ready to continue supporting the Philippines in building resilient agricultural systems that can withstand health and climate-related crises,” he said.

To date, the Philippines has an ongoing collaboration with FAO, including USD41 million worth of projects composed of 19 national projects, and 16 additional global and regional projects. (PNA)