The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Friday stressed the need to ensure the fast delivery of programs as it seeks a higher budget under the National Expenditure Program (NEP) for 2026.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. made the remark during the two-day Management Committee meeting of the country’s main food agency, which started on Thursday.

In a statement, the agriculture chief said the “slowdown” in fund obligations under the DA during the second quarter should be addressed, especially considering the strong start in 2025.

“We must perform well. We cannot ask for more resources if we fail to deliver,” Tiu Laurel said.

“We need to move as one unit, sharing our talents, acknowledging our limits, and paddling in unison, just as a dragon boat crew moves to the steady rhythm of a single beat, the beat of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision for modern, inclusive, and resilient agriculture.”

The agency is seeking a PHP176.7 billion budget for 2026, over 12 percent higher than this year’s PHP155.6 billion.

The increased funds being sought include a PHP30 billion allocation for the Rice Enhancement Competitiveness Fund (RCEF), which was tripled from the previous PHP10 billion.

It also covers national programs for rice, corn, high-value crops, organic agriculture, livestock, and urban farming, amounting to PHP43.9 billion.

Tiu Laurel then urged the DA body to continue pushing for reforms to boost the country’s agriculture, fishery, and even the livestock sector.

“We’ve come a long way, but the journey ahead remains long. While we have achieved much, there is still more to be done to realize our shared goal,” he said.

The agriculture chief maintained that the DA’s goal remains focused on advancing food security in the Philippines alongside employability for millions of Filipinos. (PNA)