ASEAN member countries are strengthening logistical cooperation to ensure stable food security and build more resilient supply chains across the region, Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel said.
“ASEAN ministers agreed to increase trade among ASEAN members so that we can rely on each other first rather than rely on others to help our economy,” said Secretary Tiu Laurel during a press conference at the conclusion of the 47th ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF) meeting, held recently in Manila.
“Definitely we are going to help the Philippines and ASEAN members a lot because logistically we are kind to each other. Other than being very convenient, in cases of emergencies or market shocks, we can rely on each other with ASEAN to, you know, stabilize market prices,” he said.
Tiu Laurel emphasized that due to their strategic geographic proximity, ASEAN countries are well-positioned to provide rapid logistical support to one another. In the event of natural disasters—such as typhoons or earthquakes—member states can quickly respond to the needs of their neighbors.
He added that with proper planning, ASEAN can minimize supply chain disruptions and prevent disasters from causing greater regional economic damage.
The agriculture secretary also pointed to opportunities for ASEAN countries to further collaborate on food supply. For example, Vietnam has strong rice production capabilities, while other nations excel in livestock production—creating a natural balance that can be leveraged through cooperation. “When we have a storm, we try to help each other. We have more or less a balance,” he said.
At the summit, ASEAN agriculture ministers reaffirmed their commitment to deepen regional trade and cooperation by enhancing supply chains, adopting climate-smart agricultural practices, and developing more resilient food production systems.
Secretary Tiu Laurel underscored the consensus among ASEAN Member States (AMS) to promote sustainable land and water management. He noted that incorporating environmentally sound practices will help preserve ecosystems while maintaining agricultural productivity.
He also highlighted the ministers’ collective support for advancing digital and smart agriculture to increase food output. As chair of this year’s AMAF, Tiu Laurel announced two major initiatives to be prioritized through 2026 and beyond:
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The ASEAN Implementation Plan for Regenerative and Resilient Agriculture Systems as a Priority Economic Deliverable (PED), and
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The ASEAN One Billion Trees Growing Programme Initiative as an AMAF Key Annual Priority.
“This meeting strengthens ties among ASEAN countries. In times of market disruptions or emergencies, we can depend on one another to stabilize the prices of agricultural goods and ensure market balance,” Secretary Tiu Laurel said.
