PH, Japan eye stronger agri ties, sustainable farming coop

MANILA, May 10 ------ The Philippines and Japan moved to deepen their agricultural partnership, focusing on climate-resilient farming, improved market access, and the Philippines' upcoming participation in a major international horticultural expo.

Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya and Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr. met to discuss the strategic direction of bilateral cooperation in the agriculture sector. During the meeting, Endo reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting the development of the Philippine agricultural landscape, which remains a key pillar of the economic relationship between the two nations. "Both sides exchanged views on further strengthening bilateral cooperation, including expanding existing frameworks of collaboration, promoting sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices, and facilitating improved market access and agricultural trade between the two countries," the Japanese embassy said in a statement.

A significant portion of the dialogue focused on the Philippines’ participation in the Green Expo 2027 in Yokohama, Japan. The international event is expected to serve as a premier platform for the Philippines to showcase its innovations in sustainable agriculture, diverse and flourishing horticulture industry, and rich cultural and agricultural heritage. Tiu-Laurel expressed his appreciation to the Japanese government for its consistent partnership in various agriculture-related initiatives.

He reaffirmed the Philippines’ dedication to fostering deeper ties, noting that such collaborations are vital to advancing the country's goals of food security and rural development. The meeting underscored the evolving nature of the Philippines-Japan partnership, moving toward a more modern, technology-driven, and environmentally conscious agricultural sector.

Source: pna.gov.ph