Uncategorized Archives - şÚÁĎÍř /index.php/category/uncategorized/ Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:37:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.5 DA issues guidelines on agri-fisheries mechanization standards assessment /index.php/2026/03/12/da-issues-guidelines-on-agri-fisheries-mechanization-standards-assessment/ Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:36:55 +0000 /?p=23936 The Department of Agriculture (DA) has approved Memorandum Circular No. 4, Series of 2026, establishing guidelines for assessing and prioritizing Philippine National Standards (PNS) proposals for agricultural and fisheries mechanization. Signed on February 2, 2026, by Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., the Guidelines on the Assessment Process and Prioritization Criteria of Philippine National continue reading...

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The Department of Agriculture (DA) has approved Memorandum Circular No. 4, Series of 2026, establishing guidelines for assessing and prioritizing Philippine National Standards (PNS) proposals for agricultural and fisheries mechanization. Signed on February 2, 2026, by Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., the Guidelines on the Assessment Process and Prioritization Criteria of Philippine National Standards (PNS) Proposals Related to Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization addresses long-standing challenges in prioritizing mechanization-related standards.

Meetings of the şÚÁĎÍř – National Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries Mechanization (CAFMech) highlighted the absence of a standardized assessment process, causing delays in developing, updating, and revising critical machinery standards.

The new circular introduces a structured, transparent framework that ensures PNS proposals align with sectoral needs and national development priorities. Developed through workshops and consultations led by a Technical Working Group under Special Order No. 1421, Series of 2025, the framework is evidence-based, objective, and responsive to industry needs.

CAFMech Resolution No. 23, Series of 2025, adopted on December 19, 2025, underscores the importance of mechanization in boosting productivity, reducing costs, improving efficiency, and enhancing sector competitiveness. The circular institutionalizes a systematic review process for the development, amendment, or revision of mechanization-related PNS, strengthening nationwide mechanization programs and policies.

Agencies are now directed to apply the prioritization criteria when submitting and evaluating PNS proposals. The circular includes annexes detailing the prioritization process, TWG protocols, criteria for machinery standards, and a list of DA priority machinery based on procurement volume.

Through this measure, the DA aims to ensure that mechanization standards are developed in a timely, transparent, and strategic manner, supporting the continued modernization of Philippine agriculture and fisheries.

DA Memorandum Circular No. 4, Series of 2026 can be accessed here: | by Bernard Masa, based on content from the Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization and Infrastructure Support Section (AFMISS) 

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PCAF consults stakeholders to advance PCAFD Act for stronger governance /index.php/2026/02/23/pcaf-consults-stakeholders-to-advance-pcafd-act-for-stronger-governance/ Mon, 23 Feb 2026 01:58:15 +0000 /?p=23870 The şÚÁĎÍř convened stakeholders on February 18, 2026, in Quezon City to gather feedback on the proposed şÚÁĎÍř Development (PCAFD) Act, a measure aimed at institutionalizing and strengthening the Council’s mandate through legislation. The proposed law seeks to transform PCAF into a permanent, development-oriented, continue reading...

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The şÚÁĎÍř convened stakeholders on February 18, 2026, in Quezon City to gather feedback on the proposed şÚÁĎÍř Development (PCAFD) Act, a measure aimed at institutionalizing and strengthening the Council’s mandate through legislation. The proposed law seeks to transform PCAF into a permanent, development-oriented, and participatory body, providing a convergence platform for farmers, fisherfolk, the private sector, and government agencies.

The PCAFD is envisioned to improve multisectoral coordination, not only within the Department of Agriculture (DA) but also with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). It aims to bridge policy formulation and implementation by grounding programs in stakeholder inputs and field realities.

During the consultation, Ernesto Ordonez of Alyansa Agrikultura pointed out that the proposal was initiated by PCAF Chief Executive Officer and DA Undersecretary Philip C. Young. He further emphasized that the measure does not separate from PCAF but rather expands its mandate—from a purely consultative role to a more development-oriented function. He also underscored that pilot testing must be coordinated with the DA and implementing agencies to avoid duplication, and that the proposal for two Deputy Executive Directors should be clearly justified.

Stakeholders generally expressed support for the bill, while raising concerns on mandate clarity, research functions, pilot testing, and potential overlap with agencies, such as: the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC). Benedicto Alves of the Davao Regional Integrated Mango Agribusiness Council (DRIMACO) highlighted the importance of a scientific validation and industry analysis before pilot implementation to ensure sound policy decisions.

In response, PCAF Officer-in-Charge Deputy Executive Director Cyril Soliaban explained that the draft bill includes criteria for pilot testing and scaling, and establishes a Technical Review Committee, which will be detailed in the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). Research, when necessary, may be commissioned to appropriate agencies, focusing on research for development (R4D) rather than duplicating academic mandates. He also stressed that PCAFD’s role will remain primarily coordinative and facilitative, consistent with existing laws, such as: the Sagip Saka Act.

The discussion also covered institutional capacity, funding, and governance mechanisms. Initial funding of Php 50 million is proposed for the first year, with succeeding budgets tied to a percentage of the PCAF allocation. Soliaban noted that pilot projects would require coordination and possible resource-sharing with implementing agencies. Provisions on monitoring, evaluation, and scaling frameworks are included to track implementation, lessons learned, and policy impact, while updates on policy resolutions are currently being consolidated and published on the PCAF website.

Stakeholders also emphasized the need for stronger civil society participation, full value-chain representation—including processors and exporters—market-linked and data-driven programs, and enhanced information dissemination at regional levels. There was broad agreement that the strengthened body should serve as an inclusive convergence platform linking farmers, processors, markets, and government institutions.

The consultation concluded with stakeholders expressing strong support for institutionalizing PCAF through legislation. The next steps include inter-agency calibration, refinement of the draft bill, presentation to the relevant Committee, securing endorsement from the Secretary of Agriculture, and formal submission to Congress for deliberation.| Jane Briña

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NAF Council Meeting tackles tariffs, farmer incomes, policy gaps /index.php/2026/02/12/naf-council-meeting-tackles-tariffs-farmer-incomes-policy-gaps/ Thu, 12 Feb 2026 01:41:27 +0000 /?p=23813 Key challenges confronting the agriculture and fisheries (A&F) sectors, including farmers incomes, tariff policies, budget effectiveness, and data integrity, were extensively discussed during the National Agriculture and Fisheries (NAF) Council Meeting held on February 9, 2026 in Sequoia Hotel, Quezon City. Private sector representatives, composed of the National Sectoral Committees (NSCs) and Regional Agricultural and continue reading...

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Key challenges confronting the agriculture and fisheries (A&F) sectors, including farmers incomes, tariff policies, budget effectiveness, and data integrity, were extensively discussed during the National Agriculture and Fisheries (NAF) Council Meeting held on February 9, 2026 in Sequoia Hotel, Quezon City.

Private sector representatives, composed of the National Sectoral Committees (NSCs) and Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council (RAFC) Chairpersons and civil society leaders raised that the presentations often fail to reflect farmers’ actual conditions, as they focus on aggregate indicators rather than farmgate prices, production costs, and value chain distortions. It was emphasized that future presentations should start from the producers’ perspective and use clear, grounded language to avoid obscuring realities and further frustrating farmers.

Several council members stressed the need for clearer data presentation and stronger policy analysis. It was noted that despite reports seemingly showing positive performance, farmers’ sentiments indicate otherwise, citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority that 2025 agricultural output remains below the 2023 levels. The need to review current strategies, assess what has worked and what has not, and identify priority improvements moving forward was emphasized.

Also, NAF Council members underscored the adverse impact of reduced tariffs on major agri-fishery commodities like rice, corn, pork, and chicken on local industries. They called for the immediate reinstatement of the original tariff rates and expressed the private sector’s support for any Department of Agriculture’s (DA) initiative to restore stronger tariff protection, emphasizing the urgency of safeguarding farmers’ welfare.

In response, DA Undersecretary (USec) for Rice Industry Development Engr. Christopher Morales explained that while government interventions have improved yields, declining farmgate prices often offset productivity gains. He underscored the importance of managing supply and demand, noting that unrestricted imports continue to depress local prices. He added that DA is pursuing measures through the development of a new Rice Bill with the aim of managing import volumes and supporting price stability, among others.

Additionally, USec for Policy, Planning, and Regulations Atty. Asis Perez acknowledged the private sector’s support for restoring the original tariff rates for selected major agri-fishery commodities but clarified that the decision on the matter rests beyond the DA’s authority. He emphasized that improving farmer income requires a comprehensive approach, integrating import rationalization, productivity enhancement, and income-raising measures, as embodied in the proposed Rice Bill.

Then, issues on extension services and program implementation were raised and sought assurance that farm machinery distribution effectively meets farmers’ needs. On the regulation of online A&F related webinars, Agricultural Training Institute Director Engr. Remelyn Recoter clarified that the DA can only regulate accredited A&F extension providers, though policy reviews can be done to determine appropriate strategies that may help address the issue.

Budget utilization and program targeting were featured prominently in the discussion. Questions were raised on the unutilized funds, fertilizer subsidy coverage, and the need for stronger participatory monitoring. USec Perez affirmed the Department’s commitment to transparency and acknowledged that significant room for improvement remains, particularly in targeting and follow-through activities.

Emerging and cross-cutting issues were likewise highlighted, including inflation, food affordability, health risks from pesticide use, irrigation sustainability, dairy development, fisheries infrastructure, and coffee self-sufficiency. DA officials present during the meeting provided clarifications and committed to further reviews, policy refinement, and inter-agency coordination if necessary.

Representing DA Secretary and the presiding officer, USec for Operations, Agri-Fisheries Mechanization, and Rural Credit Engr. Roger Navarro emphasized the importance of collaboration between government and private stakeholders, noting recent improvements in mapping, network reporting, and monitoring systems. He reiterated the DA’s receptiveness to recommendations and the vital role of the NAF Council as a consultative platform.

Among the major highlights of the discussion was the recommendation by NSC and RAFC Chairpersons to increase PCAF’s budget for both stakeholder engagement and participatory monitoring activities, ensuring that private sector representatives can fully participate and contribute to program implementation. USec. Navarro noted that the DA can also facilitate regional engagement, and stakeholders may request coordination with regional offices for support as needed. USec Perez added that the DA will review the proposal and increase the budget accordingly, assessing the feasible allocation to maximize impact.

The open forum concluded with a renewed call for stronger monitoring, stakeholder engagement, and accountability, as the Council underscored the need to ensure that policies, budgets, and programs translate into tangible benefits for farmers, fishers, and the general public. | Junry Danila

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PCAF strengthens leadership with promotion of key officials /index.php/2026/02/11/pcaf-strengthens-leadership-with-promotion-of-key-officials/ Wed, 11 Feb 2026 02:30:16 +0000 /?p=23797 The şÚÁĎÍř reaffirmed its commitment to building a strong and capable workforce as it formally welcomed two newly promoted officials during an oath taking ceremony held on February 9, 2026, in Quezon City. PCAF Executive Director Bernadette De Los Santos administered the oath of office to Catherine Viray and continue reading...

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The şÚÁĎÍř reaffirmed its commitment to building a strong and capable workforce as it formally welcomed two newly promoted officials during an oath taking ceremony held on February 9, 2026, in Quezon City.

PCAF Executive Director Bernadette De Los Santos administered the oath of office to Catherine Viray and Maria Belen Milanes, marking their assumption of higher leadership roles within the agency. Viray was promoted to Development Management Officer (DMO) V and will lead the Partnership Development Division (PDD), while Milanes advanced to DMO IV and will serve under the Policy Development and Coordination Division (PDCD).

As head of the PDD, Viray will spearhead initiatives to mobilize volunteers and stakeholders in support of agriculture and fisheries modernization. Her division’s responsibilities include broadening stakeholder engagement to ensure diverse and meaningful representation in policy-making; building cross-sector partnerships to raise public awareness and enhance service delivery; strengthen community participation; and providing capacity-building and local-level technical and administrative support to consultative bodies.

Meanwhile, Milanes will serve as Assistant Division Chief in the Policy Development and Coordination Division (PDCD). Her division is responsible for providing technical leadership and policy support to national-level stakeholders, as well as analyzing agricultural and fisheries policies and directives to address emerging issues and future sectoral challenges. It also coordinates strategic research and policy studies, generates evidence-based inputs for consultations. In this role, Milanes will help oversee the implementation of key regulatory and evaluation systems, including the Constructors Performance Evaluation System (CPES) and the National Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers Accreditation and Classification (NAMDAC).

The ceremony was witnessed by OIC–Deputy Executive Director Cyril Soliaban, PDCD Chief Sarah Bales, OIC–Administrative and Financial Management Division Chief Marisa Lo, and Human Resource and Development Section Chief Braulio Castro. Also present was MIMAROPA Regional Agricultural and Fishery Councils (AFC) Chairperson Alfonso J. Esguerra Jr., who paid a courtesy visit to PCAF. | Jane Briña

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National AFMech Summit 2025 Strengthens Push for Modern, Resilient Agriculture and Fisheries Sector /index.php/2025/12/05/national-afmech-summit-2025-strengthens-push-for-modern-resilient-agriculture-and-fisheries-sector/ Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:48:27 +0000 /?p=23512 Over 100 national and regional stakeholders gathered for the National Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Summit 2025, held on November 25–28, 2025, to advance mechanization, irrigation, and infrastructure development in the agriculture and fisheries sector. Spearheaded by the şÚÁĎÍř through its National Committee on Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization (CAFMech) and continue reading...

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Over 100 national and regional stakeholders gathered for the National Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Summit 2025, held on November 25–28, 2025, to advance mechanization, irrigation, and infrastructure development in the agriculture and fisheries sector.

Spearheaded by the şÚÁĎÍř through its National Committee on Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization (CAFMech) and the Policy Development Coordination Division–Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization and Infrastructure Support Section (AFMISS), the four-day Summit provided a platform to align policies, review program performance, and identify priority interventions for a more modern and climate-resilient agri-fisheries sector.

With the theme “Advancing Mechanization, Irrigation and Drainage Systems, and Infrastructure for a Resilient and Modern Agriculture and Fisheries Sector,” the event tackled persistent challenges such as low mechanization adoption, climate vulnerability, and gaps in rural infrastructure.

PCAF Executive Director Bernadette De Los Santos emphasized during her welcome message that this gathering “brings together the country’s leading institutions, innovators, practitioners, and advocates to collectively assess the current landscape of agricultural and fisheries mechanization, irrigation and drainage systems management, and agri-fisheries infrastructure development.”

In his keynote message, Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary for Operations and Agri-Fisheries Mechanization Engr. Roger Navarro underscored the urgency of boosting mechanization and modern infrastructure to strengthen food security and improve farmers’ and fisherfolk’s productivity.

He emphasized that mechanization, irrigation and drainage development, and strategic facilities are “foundational investments” to ensure a competitive and future-ready food system. Aligning with the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028 and the directives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., he also highlighted accomplishments under the AFMech Law, RCEF Mechanization Program, and the National Irrigation Program, while acknowledging the need to address fragmented logistics and low technology adoption.

“Let this Summit be a catalyst for coordinated action. Together, let us build a modern Philippine agriculture that is resilient, competitive, and ready for the future,” Navarro said.

Participants of the Summit included representatives from various DA Bureaus and Attached Agencies, DA Regional Field Offices, local government units, the academe, private sector suppliers, farmers’ and fishers’ cooperatives and associations, and irrigators’ associations.

Discussions centered on the three thematic areas that include agricultural and fisheries machinery and equipment, irrigation and drainage systems, and agricultural and fisheries infrastructure.

Key presentations from BAFE, AMTEC, PhilMech, NIA, BSWM, BFAR, HVCDP, NLP, and other institutions highlighted policy and regulatory updates, program performance and gaps, climate-resilient technologies, and best practices across the agri-fisheries value chain.

The Summit concluded with the drafting of consolidated policy resolutions and priority action points that will be submitted to DA and other relevant agencies for consideration, contributing to stronger inter-agency collaboration and evidence-based policymaking.

During his closing message, CAFMech Chairperson Rodolfo Tamayo thanked the PCAF-AFMISS Team and reaffirmed the government’s continuing commitment to modernize Philippine agriculture and fisheries. He added that the Summit served as a platform for farmers and fisherfolk to gain access to available technologies, infrastructure, and systems that support higher productivity and resilience amid evolving climate and market challenges.

Text and photos by Junry Danila

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Philippine Rice Industry Roadmap 2025-2035 launched at National Stakeholders Conference /index.php/2025/12/01/philippine-rice-industry-roadmap-2021-2035-launched-at-national-stakeholders-conference/ Mon, 01 Dec 2025 07:52:29 +0000 /?p=23462 Davao City — The local agriculture sector took a major stride forward with the successful launch of the Philippine Rice Industry Roadmap (PRIDR) 2025-2035 during the National Rice Stakeholders Conference held on November 27, 2025 in Lanang, Davao City. Developed under the leadership of the Department of Agriculture (DA), the PRIDR establishes a long-term national continue reading...

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Davao City — The local agriculture sector took a major stride forward with the successful launch of the Philippine Rice Industry Roadmap (PRIDR) 2025-2035 during the National Rice Stakeholders Conference held on November 27, 2025 in Lanang, Davao City.

Developed under the leadership of the Department of Agriculture (DA), the PRIDR establishes a long-term national framework for building a resilient, competitive, and sustainable rice industry. The şÚÁĎÍř, an attached agency of the DA, provided technical guidance and convened multisectoral stakeholders in support of the roadmap’s development.

The event gathered government officials, private sector leaders, farmers, industry specialists, and development partners to demonstrate unified support for the country’s rice sector. One of the highlights was the signing of the Panata ng Pagkakaisa commitment wall, symbolizing the shared resolve of stakeholders to work collaboratively in advancing the rice industry.

DA Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development Engr. Christopher Morales underscored the significance of the PRIDR in driving long-term action for the sector. “The roadmap serves as a unified national blueprint that aligns all our long-term goals,” he said. “We strengthen our groundwork this year. We move forward with unstoppable momentum starting next year. So in 2026, let us turn our discussions into action under the MIRDP and guided by the long-term PRIDR.”

Years of collaboration and technical work

The PRIDR is the product of extensive policy development, research, consultation, and validation. Sarah Bales, Chief of PCAF’s Policy Development and Coordination Division, presented the timeline of its formulation—from the initial technical assistance provided by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to its final approval by the DA. She highlighted the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement throughout the process.

Meanwhile, Hazel Tanchuling, Executive Director of the Rice Watch Action Network (RWAN) and Chairperson of the PRIDR Technical Writing Team, discussed the roadmap’s key components and innovations, including sectoral goals, implementation strategies, performance indicators, and expected outcomes. She emphasized that the roadmap balances technical rigor with the inputs of farmers and industry groups from across the country.

Joining the roster of speakers were PRIDR Technical Writing Team member Recher Ondap and LEMMCAP President John Paparon, who shared their aspirations for the rollout of the roadmap and its contribution to farmer welfare, rural development, and value chain innovation. Mercedita Suco, an Ata-Manobo farmer from Talaingod, Davao del Norte and exhibitor at the event, expressed her gratitude to RWAN for equipping their community with the training and support needed to produce and market their heirloom rice sustainably.

DA-XI Regional Rice Program Coordinator Evelyn Basa also stressed the need for collaboration in the implementation phase. “Your involvement is crucial as we strengthen public-private collaboration in shaping a competitive and sustainable rice value chain,” she said.

Call to action and next steps

In her closing message, Marie Ann Constantino, Regional Technical Director for Operations of the DA Regional Field Office XI, underscored the importance of translating the roadmap into actionable initiatives. “Localizing and mainstreaming the PRIDR into agency work plans, local government unit programs, and community initiatives will be crucial in creating measurable, lasting impact,” she said. “A well-informed citizenry strengthens accountability and trust, and it helps the Filipino people understand how the PRIDR contributes to food security and improved livelihoods.”

The launch of the PRIDR coincided with the culmination of National Rice Awareness Month, reinforcing national commitment to food security, farmer empowerment, and agricultural modernization.

The PRIDR is expected to serve as the government’s primary blueprint for policy development, investment planning, and sector transformation for the next decade and beyond. In his message for the published roadmap, Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. affirmed the DA’s full commitment to implementing the PRIDR, as the Department seeks to boost productivity, build resilience, expand economic opportunities, and ensure that every Filipino has access to affordable and nutritious rice.

About PCAF

The şÚÁĎÍř is the lead policy advisory body of the Department of Agriculture. It facilitates multisectoral engagement, policy development, and stakeholder-driven recommendations to strengthen agricultural and fisheries development nationwide.

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NSC on Fruits and Vegetables tackles climate risks, industry challenges in Q4 meeting /index.php/2025/11/17/pcafs-nsc-on-fruits-and-vegetables-tackles-climate-risks-industry-challenges-in-q4-meeting/ Mon, 17 Nov 2025 07:41:11 +0000 /?p=23477 The şÚÁĎÍř convened the 4th Quarter Meeting of the National Sectoral Committee on Fruits and Vegetables (NSC-FV) on November 12, 2025, bringing together government agencies, private sector partners, and industry stakeholders to address pressing concerns affecting high-value crops.  Chaired by Dr. Mary Ann Sayoc of the East-West Seed Co., continue reading...

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The şÚÁĎÍř convened the 4th Quarter Meeting of the National Sectoral Committee on Fruits and Vegetables (NSC-FV) on November 12, 2025, bringing together government agencies, private sector partners, and industry stakeholders to address pressing concerns affecting high-value crops. 

Chaired by Dr. Mary Ann Sayoc of the East-West Seed Co., the meeting tackled industry reports on major fruits and vegetables, updates on the banana and vegetable roadmap revisions, and ongoing interventions for kalamansi, pili, and moringa. Several policy resolutions were adopted, including recommendations for research on agricultural wind barriers, the integration of rural persons with disabilities (PWDs) in food systems, and strengthened reforestation efforts in typhoon-prone areas. Additional proposals under the National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP) were likewise approved. 

 

During the discussions on climate outlook, DOST-PAGASA reported a 77% probability of La Niña developing before year-end, signaling above-normal rainfall across many regions. The Department of Agriculture–Field Operations Service (DA-FOS) also presented damage assessments, citing over 65,000 affected farmers and an estimated ₱2.26 billion in losses to high-value crops. Stakeholders raised concerns on data availability, the vulnerability of greenhouse structures, and the urgent need for climate-resilient strategies. This sparked discussions on expanding seed buffer stocks, improving cropping calendars, and investing in both natural and artificial wind barriers to mitigate production losses.

To close the meeting, the Secretariat outlined the sectoral activities lined up for 2026, which include the scheduled quarterly meetings and the February meeting dedicated to the plan and budget proposal.

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Stakeholders push for swift implementation of Salt Industry Law; Call for IRR, price regulation, and ₱210M fund allocation /index.php/2025/11/13/key-policy-agreements-and-recommendations/ Thu, 13 Nov 2025 07:43:53 +0000 /?p=23267 The national effort to revive the Philippine salt industry gained momentum as the national and the regional stakeholders convened in Dagupan City, Pangasinan for the two back-to-back activities that resulted in urgent policy calls and coordinated action plans. The back-to-back activities entitled 2nd Semestral Meeting of the şÚÁĎÍř National continue reading...

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The national effort to revive the Philippine salt industry gained momentum as the national and the regional stakeholders convened in Dagupan City, Pangasinan for the two back-to-back activities that resulted in urgent policy calls and coordinated action plans.

The back-to-back activities entitled 2nd Semestral Meeting of the şÚÁĎÍř National Sectoral Committee (NSC) on Fisheries and Aquaculture Salt Subcommittee and the Collaborative Dialogue with Ilocos Region Stakeholders on November 4–6, 2025 culminated in a set of consolidated agreements aimed at accelerating the full implementation of the Republic Act (RA) No. 11985 or the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act.

Jointly organized by PCAF and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and hosted at the National Fisheries Development Center in Dagupan City, the strategic gatherings underscored the collective determination of government agencies, producers, and regional players to restore the competitiveness of the salt industry.

As part of the three-day program, participants conducted an exploratory visit to the Pangasinan Salt Center in Barangay Zaragoza, Bolinao. The visit showcased modern salt-making processes and sustainable practices that demonstrate the sector’s potential for innovation. The facility currently supplies Agricultural Grade Salt (AGS) to meet the Philippine Coconut Authority’s requirements for its national coconut fertilization program.

Key Policy Agreements and Recommendations

The consultations produced several major resolutions focused on strengthening policy implementation, ensuring market stability, and securing institutional support for salt producers:

1. Expedite the Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 11985.
Stakeholders urged the Department of Agriculture (DA) and BFAR to immediately finalize and issue the IRR of the law to enable producers and local industries to access government support and funding programs.

2. Establish Market Price Regulation.
To protect local salt producers from unfair market competition, participants recommended the creation of floor and ceiling prices for domestically produced salt based on verified production costs, an initiative expected to promote market stability and fair pricing.

3. Secure ₱210 Million Budget for the Salt Industry Development Fund (SIDCEF).
Recognizing the limited revenue from tariff collections, stakeholders agreed to pursue a ₱210-million allocation for the SIDCEF through the General Appropriations Act, alongside a request for the Department of Budget and Management authorization to utilize the 9% tariff fund.

4. Strengthen Inter-Agency and Local Government Unit (LGU) Coordination.
To harmonize implementation efforts, the creation of a Technical Working Group on Salt Industry Development was recommended. Stakeholders also proposed a Joint Memorandum Circular with the Department of the Interior and Local Government to clarify the specific roles of LGUs under RA 11985.

In a parallel development, the NSC meeting achieved progress on technical and institutional matters. The Philippine Statistics Authority committed to review the current classification of salt production—currently categorized under mining and quarrying—and to consider its reclassification under the Agriculture/Fisheries category.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation announced its plan to design and pilot a dedicated salt insurance product by the second quarter of Fiscal Year 2026, offering a potential safeguard for producers against weather and market risks.

During the closing ceremony, the secretariat team of PCAF NSC on Fisheries and Aquaculture ensures to consolidate the outcomes of the meetings and will formally endorse to DA and other relevant national agencies for their immediate action.| Junry Danila

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PCAF successfully passes ISO 9001:2015 surveillance audit, reinforcing its quality management system /index.php/2025/11/03/pcaf-successfully-passes-iso-90012015-surveillance-audit-strengthening-its-quality-management-system/ Mon, 03 Nov 2025 09:03:11 +0000 /?p=23136 The PCAF successfully passed the ISO 9001:2015 surveillance audit on October 27, 2025 in Quezon City, reaffirming the agency’s continued compliance with ISO standards and its effective maintenance of a quality management system between certification periods. Facilitated by PCAF’s Management Section, this successful surveillance audit focused on the agency’s unwavering dedication to quality service, organizational continue reading...

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The PCAF successfully passed the ISO 9001:2015 surveillance audit on October 27, 2025 in Quezon City, reaffirming the agency’s continued compliance with ISO standards and its effective maintenance of a quality management system between certification periods.

Facilitated by PCAF’s Management Section, this successful surveillance audit focused on the agency’s unwavering dedication to quality service, organizational excellence, and sustainable development. It marks another significant milestone in PCAF’s journey toward continual improvement and leadership in the agriculture and fisheries sector.

More than 30 PCAF officials, including top management, division and section chiefs, internal quality auditors (IQA), and the documented information controller (DIC), attended the opening and closing meetings of the audit. 

The audit was conducted by Worldwide Quality Assurance (WQA) Philippines, Inc.,  led by Audit Team Leader Florida Cornejo and team member Maria Elizabeth Esteban.

During the opening meeting, Cornejo presented the audit plan, while the results and key findings were formally discussed with agency officials during the closing meeting.

Cornejo and Esteban conducted a comprehensive evaluation covering critical aspects of PCAF’s operations—such as top management practices, human resources, internal audit procedures, infrastructure, and the overall operational environment. The auditors also reviewed the performance of PCAF’s four operating units to ensure full compliance with ISO standards across the agency.

For PCAF, the primary goal of the surveillance audit was to confirm the effectiveness, relevance, and alignment of its management system with the organization’s scope and objectives. This assessment safeguards the integrity and quality of PCAF’s operations, ensuring that it remains responsive to both stakeholder expectations and international best practices.

The ISO 9001:2015 certification is a globally recognized benchmark for quality management systems, emphasizing continual improvement, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. The recertification process, conducted every three years by an independent third-party body, validates an organization’s ongoing commitment to maintaining these standards. In addition, annual surveillance audits ensure that certified institutions sustain compliance and continuous improvement. | Jane Briña

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PCAF welcomes newly promoted employees in an oathtaking ceremony /index.php/2025/10/15/pcaf-welcomes-newly-promoted-employees-in-an-oathtaking-ceremony/ Wed, 15 Oct 2025 07:23:50 +0000 /?p=23029 The şÚÁĎÍř formally welcomed three newly promoted employees in an oathtaking ceremony administered by Executive Director Bernadette De Los Santos on October 15, 2025 in Quezon City. The newly promoted staff will take on key roles to further enhance PCAF’s operations and its commitment to the development of the continue reading...

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The şÚÁĎÍř formally welcomed three newly promoted employees in an oathtaking ceremony administered by Executive Director Bernadette De Los Santos on October 15, 2025 in Quezon City.

The newly promoted staff will take on key roles to further enhance PCAF’s operations and its commitment to the development of the agriculture and fisheries sectors.

Eugene de Guzman and Troadio Montemayor were promoted to Project Evaluation Officer (PEO) II. They will be assigned to the Monitoring and Evaluation Section of the Planning, Monitoring and Knowledge Management Division.

As PEOs, their main responsibilities include monitoring, evaluating and validating completed DA programs, projects, and initiatives related to agricultural and fisheries modernization.

In a key leadership move, Andrea Louise Gutierrez was promoted to Development Management Officer III and will serve as the Section Chief of the Capacity Development Section (CDS) of the Partnership Development Division.

In this role, Gutierrez will be responsible for providing technical guidance for the section. The CDS is crucial for building the capabilities of PCAF’s stakeholders through training needs assessments, program formulation, and the facilitation of educational activities.

The ceremony emphasized PCAF’s commitment to strengthening its workforce with dedicated and capable employees, ensuring the organization is well-equipped to achieve its goals.

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