The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) are set to significantly enhance collaboration, aiming to foster sustainable development in both tourism and agriculture. This commitment was solidified during a productive meeting between DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco at the DA Central Office on Monday.
Secretary Laurel expressed strong support for the DOT’s framework for inter-agency collaboration, particularly in addressing the crucial need for a consistent and affordable supply of raw materials for the tourism sector. The DA is poised to offer extensive support, including access to vital agricultural resources and facilities such as cold storage units, food processing centers, ice plants, and agricultural inputs like seeds, greenhouses, livestock, and aquaculture resources. This comprehensive assistance is designed to ensure a steady flow of local produce to hotels, restaurants, and various tourism destinations across the country.
“Our aim is clear: to ensure a persistent supply of local goods that industry players need, at an affordable price,” Secretary Laurel emphasized. He highlighted a common challenge faced by tourists: “It’s often said, ‘The place is beautiful, and the experience is wonderful. But then your food bill comes, and it’s exorbitant.'” This initiative directly tackles such concerns by ensuring cost-effective sourcing for tourism stakeholders.
A key proposal from the DA is the establishment of agri-tourism trading posts in strategic tourism areas. These facilities will enable local farmers to directly market their products to chefs, hotel suppliers, and tourists, thereby reducing logistical burdens and creating valuable experiences for rural communities.
Secretary Laurel eagerly awaits the DOT’s list of priority tourism destinations and partner local government units (LGUs) to guide the targeted deployment of resources and investments. He described the proposed areas of collaboration as “low-hanging fruits” that can be readily implemented with effective coordination. “Definitely, let’s work on this, and I’m really very excited,” he enthused, signaling a proactive and enthusiastic approach to this joint endeavor.
