Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said, barring any adverse typhoon impact, the Philippines is on track to achieve record sugar and palay harvests this year.
In his keynote message at the 127th founding anniversary celebration on June 23, 2025, the agriculture secretary said that the country is on track to reach a record high in sugar production this year. If spared from typhoons, the Philippines may also see record-breaking palay harvest.
The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) has adjusted its forecast upwards, projecting a final output of 1.837 million metric tons (MMT) for crop year 2024-2025, surpassing the initial estimate of 1.782 MMT. This is despite the effects of the previous year’s El Niño.
On palay, the DA aims to restore palay output to record levels, projecting a 2025 harvest of 20.46 million MT, up from 19.09 million MT in 2024. Improved domestic output is expected to reduce the country’s dependence on imported rice.
With the theme “Kaisa ng Magsasaka’t Mangingisda Tungo sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas,” this year’s DA anniversary celebration highlighted the DA’s role in empowering farmers and fishers to build a food-secure and progressive nation.
Tiu-Laurel underscored the importance of unity and collective action as key to achieving the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) goals.
But beyond these milestones, he said that the welfare of Filipinos remains the department’s top priority—especially with the launch of the P20 rice program, which aims to make affordable rice accessible to all.
He also called for coordination and cooperation must continue—not only within the DA but also with other government agencies to ensure achievement of goals.
“It is important that we do not forget our farmers, fishers, and hog raisers—their needs must be addressed as soon as possible,” he added.
As part of the celebration, 101 loyalty awardees were honored during the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) ceremony held at the Bureau of Soils and Water Management Convention Hall. The awards recognized DA officials and employees who have rendered continuous, satisfactory service for at least 10 years, and every five years thereafter.
Tiu Laurel lauded their dedication, resilience, and perseverance despite the many challenges in the agriculture sector.
“Today, allow me to thank you for all the days when, despite being tired, you still chose to show up. For the countless hours of overtime, and for the smiles that, though worn, remain sincere,” he said.
