In a major push toward climate resilience and rural economic growth, the �����Ƶ (PCAF) National Sectoral Committee on Coconut held a high-level meeting on July 6, 2026 to map out a new Carbon Financing Framework for Rural Development.

Organized to celebrate World Rural Development Day, the special session directly addressed ongoing poverty and food insecurity in farming and coastal communities. 

Led by Chairperson Charles Avila, the meeting brought together a wide group of government agencies, including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), the High Value Crops Development Program, along with private-sector leaders, international non-government organizations, and local farming representatives.

With the Philippines hosting about 347 million coconut trees across 3.6 million hectares, Chairperson Avila emphasized that the coconut sector is in a perfect position to attract massive private climate investments.

The main goal of the new framework is to set up the necessary digital data systems and clear monitoring tools. These systems will help small farmers easily participate in global carbon markets, creating new ways to earn while fighting climate change.

The meeting featured detailed updates on the country’s growing green economy, highlighting:

• DENR’s Article 6 Policy Framework & Voluntary Forest Carbon Market Roadmap. This explains the rules for trading carbon credits globally and how the Philippines will grow its own forest carbon projects. 
• PSA’s Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System Rollout. This outlines a system to officially measure, track, and put a clear economic value on the country’s natural resources. 
• Philippine Sustainable Agriculture Transformation & DA – Special Concerns and Official Development Assistance Framework. This presents an integrated strategy for modernizing the country’s farming sector while guiding local offices on eco-friendly, climate-smart agriculture programs.
• PCA’s Coconut Carbon Projects. This shows how the country’s millions of coconut trees can naturally trap and store pollution from the air. 
• Sustainable Agroforestry and Farm Enterprise Program Implementation. This shares a science-based farming plan that uses bamboo to build climate-resilient landscapes while providing training and tools to local communities. 

Turning policy into action, the event hosted a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the Confederation of Coconut Farmers Organizations of the Philippines and the Samar Bamboo Corporation.

The partnership officially launches the Carbon Optimization of Coconut-based Agroforestry Landscapes Project. This initiative will transform thousands of hectares in Samar Province into valuable carbon-storing lands by growing coconut and bamboo together.

While stakeholders noted that a lot of structural work, social protections, and profit-sharing details still need to be finalized, officials expressed a strong commitment to driving this new type of climate-smart rural development. | Jezebel Campaniel

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The �����Ƶ (PCAF) finalized its operational refinement during its Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Agency Midyear Performance Review and Planning Workshop on July 6 to 7, 2026 in Quezon City.

Guided by its new Strategic Plan 2026–2031, the agency is shifting from tracking basic outputs to an evidence-based governance framework focused on measurable stakeholder impact.

“We gathered today not only to review what we have accomplished but also to reflect on how our work has created meaningful impact for the stakeholders we serve,” said PCAF Executive Director Bernadette De Los Santos.

By adopting governance mapping (GM) and stakeholder impact storytelling (SIS), PCAF’s Operating Units (OUs) was able to analyze the bottlenecks and successes that will shape a more responsive organization for the remainder of the year. GM establishes clear operational roadmaps and accountability, while SIS translates complex data into relatable narratives that build empathy, transparency, and public support.

To optimize service delivery and resolve first-semester bottlenecks, the management committee and OUs agreed on several critical adjustments.

To strengthen stakeholder engagement and service delivery, PCAF will accelerate external partnerships by quickly updating its Civil Society Organization (CSO) guidelines and implementing strategies to meet partnership goals.

In collaboration with the private sector, the agency will develop a citizen reporting mechanism to improve participatory monitoring and feedback systems. Moreover, to support inclusive governance, PCAF will institutionalize youth participation monitoring in compliance with Republic Act No. 8044 and assess its gender mainstreaming initiatives across all operations.

Internally, all OUs need to fast-track priority activities and speed up procurement, obligation, and disbursement processes. The General Services Section will optimize vehicle maintenance funds and expedite essential repairs.

To build organizational capacity and reduce reliance on external experts, PCAF will create in-house training modules and a centralized learning repository to preserve institutional knowledge. Finally, the Interim Information and Communications Technology Unit will drive digital transformation by exploring productivity-enhancing AI tools and benchmarking human resource information systems to improve overall efficiency.

Following the conclusion of first-semester report submissions this July, PCAF will immediately conduct its Joint Midyear to directly align second semester operations with regional partners and the AFCs. | Jezebel Campaniel

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In line with its commitment to the continual improvement of its services and further capacitation of its personnel, the �����Ƶ (PCAF) conducted an in-house training seminar titled “Alignment to New Government Procurement Act (RA No. 12009).”

The three-day capability-building activity was conducted from June 30 to July 2, 2026, at the Apacible Hall Conference Rooms in Quezon City.

The training gathered around 50 key PCAF employees, including members of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC), the BAC Secretariat, the BAC Technical Working Group, top PCAF officials, and various procurement focal persons from its Operating Units.

To provide professional guidance on the legislative updates of the new RA, PCAF invited Government Procurement Policy Board-Technical Support Office resource persons, Dianne Ibias, Philippe Cortes, and Dr. Abrian Joy Orencia, who expertly unpacked the key differences between the old procurement framework and the newly implemented law.

Emphasizing the critical nature of the activity, PCAF OIC Deputy Executive Director Cyril Soliaban said that procurement is not just a process, it is an organizational responsibility.

“Procurement starts long before BAC receives the documents. It starts with proper planning, identifying the real needs of our offices, and preparing complete, well-thought-out specifications. Every peso we spend is taxpayers’ money and every procurement decision reflects our integrity as public servants,” he added.

Key updates from RA No. 12009 

The RA No. 12009 was enacted in July 2024 and serves as a comprehensive revision of the 21-year-old RA 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act of 2003.

The training sessions discussed how the new Act introduces flexibility, modern technologies, and a “fit-for-purpose” approach.

1. Paradigm shift: “Fit-for-Purpose” vs. One-Size-Fits-All

​Old Provision (RA 9184): Competitive Public Bidding was the absolute default mode. Alternative methods (like direct contracting or negotiated procurement) were heavily restricted, strictly regulated, and often treated with intense suspicion by auditors.

​New Provision (RA 12009): Mandates a Fit-for-Purpose procurement approach. It gives procuring entities the explicit flexibility to select from a broader variety of procurement modalities tailored to the specific nature, risk, and strategy of the project, without compromising transparency.

​2. Shift in award criterion: Lowest price vs. best value

​Old Provision (RA 9184): Goods and infrastructure projects were rigidly awarded using the Lowest Calculated Responsive Bid (LCRB). This often forced agencies to buy the cheapest items available, which frequently resulted in subpar quality, frequent breakdowns, or delayed infrastructure projects.

​New Provision (RA 12009): Introduces the concept of the Most Economically Advantageous Responsive Bid (MEARB) for goods and infrastructure. This allows agencies to assign weights to both technical or qualitative attributes and financial aspects, ensuring they get the best overall value, not just the lowest sticker price.

​3. Focus on lifecycle costing and sustainability

​Old Provision (RA 9184): Green procurement and long-term costs were virtually absent in the old text. Evaluation only considered the upfront purchase price.

​New Provision (RA 12009): Formally institutionalizes Lifecycle Cost Analysis and Green Public Procurement (GPP). Procuring entities must now evaluate the long-term environmental impact, operational costs, maintenance, and eventual disposal of a project or asset at the end of its useful life.

​4. Modernization and streamlining

​Old Provision (RA 9184): While it introduced the PhilGEPS system, it was designed in an era of manual, physical submissions, long face-to-face BAC meetings, and restrictive thresholds.

​New Provision (RA 12009): Heavily pushes digital integration, explicit use of emerging technologies, and Open Contracting Practices (making data fully shareable across all stages). It also explicitly permits electronic BAC meetings and adjusts thresholds, such as increasing the Small Value Procurement (SVP) threshold up to PhP2,000,000 to drastically reduce bureaucratic delays for minor purchases.

​5. Professionalization of Procurement Personnel

​Old Provision (RA 9184): Members of the BAC and Secretariat were designated to perform these as an “add-on” task to their regular government duties, often leading to limited specialized procurement expertise.

​New Provision (RA 12009): Explicitly introduces Procurement Professionalization. It treats procurement as a specialized track within the civil service, providing structured training and capacity-building to create dedicated, qualified procurement practitioners.

Through this procurement training initiative, PCAF commits to ensure its procurement arm remains highly competent, agile, and legally compliant as it steers the agency toward more transparent and high-impact public service. | Jezebel Campaniel

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To better connect the public with essential agricultural services, the �����Ƶ (PCAF) joined 11 other Department of Agriculture (DA) agencies, bureaus, and programs at the Livestock and Aquaculture Philippines 2026 Expo. 

The event served as a platform to showcase initiatives, services, and programs designed to support the livestock, poultry, and fisheries sectors. Held from June 24 to 26 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, the three-day event drew over 11,000 visitors from across the country.

Under the theme “Modern Farming Practices, Bountiful Harvest: The Future of Livestock and Aquaculture,” the expo brought together industry leaders, farmers, students, members of the academe, and tech innovators to share knowledge and build partnerships.

In a message delivered by Undersecretary for Livestock Dr. Constante Palabrica for DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., the Agriculture Chief emphasized the government’s strong commitment to boosting the livestock, poultry, and aquaculture sectors. He highlighted that modernizing these industries is vital to achieving food security and sustainable farming in the Philippines.

Throughout the event, PCAF hosted an information booth where visitors and farmers could access free educational materials and learn about the agency’s programs, activities, and projects, all while enjoying a complimentary cup of hot coffee.

Technical personnel from PCAF’s key divisions were on-site to attend various forums and gain updated knowledge on emerging technologies and interventions in support of the implementation of Intensified Community-Based Dairy Enterprise Development Project,which aims to boost local milk and dairy production. 

Additionally, technical staff serving as focal persons for the agency’s National Sectoral Committees on Poultry and Livestock, as well as Corn and Feed Crops, were present to discuss ongoing efforts to improve local animal feed and farming policies.

Civil Society Organization (CSO) accreditation emerged as one of the most frequently asked topics at the PCAF booth. As the facilitator of the national-level CSO accreditation process for the DA, PCAF helps qualify these organizations to act as eligible implementing partners or beneficiaries of DA public funds, grants, and agri-fishery projects.| Jezebel Campaniel, with reports from Jane Briña

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In celebration of the �����Ƶ’ (PCAF) anniversary and as part of its continuing efforts to promote a culture of learning and knowledge sharing, its Planning, Monitoring, and Knowledge Management Division (PMKMD) conducted a Knowledge Unloading Day (KUD) titled: Insights from PCAF Returning Scholars on June 25, 2026, via Zoom.

The online activity gave returning scholars a venue to share key learnings, best practices, and insights from various local and international capacity development programs. It also promoted knowledge exchange among employees, encouraging them to apply what they’ve learned to strengthen organizational performance, innovation, and service delivery.

Serving as resource persons were Ms. Patrishia Joy Reytana and Engr. Reynaldo Villanueva, Jr., both Korea International Cooperation Agency Philippines (KOICA) scholars, as well as Ms. Joane Carla Auditor, Engr. Charmine Joy Esta, and Engr. Jahensi Supanga, all Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) scholars.

The returning scholars shared key research findings, learnings, and experiences from their scholarship programs, including best practices, challenges encountered, and competencies gained. 

In his opening message, OIC Deputy Executive Director Cyril Soliaban underscored the value of continuous learning within the organization.

“Today, we come together para sa isang pagkakataon na sana magpapaalala sa atin na one of the great investments sa isang organisasyon is that we can make learning as part of our responsibility towards one another,” said Deputy Executive Director Cyril Soliaban.

“We recognize that investing in learning and professional development is essential to strengthening our organization and enhancing the services that we provide sa ating mga stakeholders,” he furthered.

The returning scholars shared their research contributions and reflected on lessons learned beyond the classroom — from cultural exposure to comparative insights on their host institutions. The activity also made room to unpack the challenges they faced, the competencies they gained, and the opportunities for collaboration ahead, while gathering recommendations to strengthen PCAF’s scholarship.

Closing the activity, Planning, Monitoring, and Knowledge Management Division Chief Floreliz Avellana commended the returning scholars for their accomplishments and encouraged younger employees to pursue similar opportunities.

“To all of you, you made us proud! Nawa ay marami tayong natutunan and to our junior staff, hope you were inspired to follow suit. After all, sabi nga, education is the passport to the future,” said PMKMD  Division Chief Avellana. | Joy Camille Luza

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QUEZON CITY- Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has endorsed a private sector-backed policy resolution calling for the immediate transition to a 5 percent coco-biodiesel blend (B5), and has forwarded the proposal to both the Senate and the Department of Energy (DOE).

The Department of Agriculture’s (DA) endorsement covers Resolution No. 03, Series of 2026, passed by the �����Ƶ–National Sectoral Committee (NSC) on Coconut, chaired by Charles Avila.

Philippine Coconut Authority Administrator Dexter Buted also expressed the agency’s full support for the resolution, describing it as a strong potential boost for the coconut industry, which sustains millions of Filipino livelihoods.

Secretary Tiu Laurel forwarded the manifesto to Senator Francis “Kiko” N. Pangilinan, chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, and to Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin, who also chairs the National Biofuels Board (NBB).

The shift toward higher biofuel blends was mandated under Republic Act No. 9367, or the Biofuels Act of 2006, which promotes the blending of Coconut Methyl Ester (CME) into petroleum products to revitalize the domestic coconut industry, enhance energy security, and advance environmental sustainability.

A 300 percent spike in international coconut oil prices in the past had forced the NBB to temporarily pause the transition. However, current market conditions are now seen as favorable for its revival.

CME is biodegradable and non-toxic, and produces significantly lower sulfur and greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional petroleum diesel.

Industry experts note that while the B5 blend is a strategic, long-term market intervention rather than a quick fix for fuel prices, it remains a critical step as domestic oil prices are expected to take six to twelve months to stabilize amid ongoing global supply chain disruptions.

Beyond its environmental and technical benefits, the expansion of B5 is expected to help stabilize agricultural prices and generate higher incomes for an estimated 2.5 to 3.5 million coconut farmers.

“The Department of Agriculture strongly supports the transition to a 5 percent biodiesel blend. This is more than a step toward meeting international standards. It is a meaningful investment in the future of millions of Filipino farmers, workers, and families who rely on the coconut industry for their livelihood,” Tiu Laurel said.

He added that expanding demand for CME would help create jobs, maximize existing production capacity, and generate greater value for the coconut sector.

“At the same time, this shift strengthens the country’s energy security and self-reliance by reducing dependence on imported fuels and making better use of a homegrown renewable resource,” the DA chief added. | Jezebel Campaniel

ABOUT PCAF:

The �����Ƶ (PCAF) is an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture (DA) that facilitates broad-based participatory development mechanisms and processes by conducting stakeholder consultations and dialogues for policy formulation, and participatory monitoring and tracking of DA-funded programs and projects.

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Following earlier calls for stronger irrigation coordination and water resource management, the �����Ƶ (PCAF) Committee on Climate Change, Environment, and Natural Resources (CCCENR) convened a special meeting on June 10 to review the endorsed PCAF CCCENR Resolution No. 3, Series of 2026, on a proposed Unified Irrigation Roadmap and Inter-Agency Coordination Mechanism between the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA).

The review builds on discussions during the Committee’s second quarter meeting on May 7, 2026, where stakeholders underscored the need to harmonize irrigation planning, strengthen watershed management, and improve coordination among agencies responsible for water resources and agricultural development.

Presenting the National Irrigation Master Plan (NIMP) 2020–2030, NIA’s Engr. Reynaldo Nilo reported that the master plan is approximately 70 percent complete and highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination with partner agencies through regional irrigation planning and stakeholder consultations.

The presentation prompted discussions on mechanisms to prevent overlapping irrigation interventions and improve coordination between NIA and BSWM. Stakeholders also raised concerns on the long-term sustainability of irrigation systems amid increasing climate-related pressures on water resources, including the impacts of El Niño on rainfall-dependent water sources.

Meanwhile, Engr. Patrick Espanto of BSWM presented the National Small-Scale Irrigation Project (SSIP) Master Plan 2023–2030, which outlines initiatives to support water conservation and improve irrigation services for farmers. Discussions following the presentation highlighted the importance of integrating water conservation measures, disaster risk reduction, and watershed protection into irrigation planning and implementation.

A recurring theme throughout the meeting was the need to strengthen watershed management to sustain water supplies for agricultural lands. Committee members noted that while various agencies implement programs related to irrigation and water resources, stronger coordination and clearer institutional arrangements are needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of watersheds supporting irrigation systems.

To address these concerns, the Committee adopted Policy Resolution No. 8, Series of 2026, recommending the strengthening and full implementation of an inter-agency and multi-stakeholder watershed and irrigation systems management framework to ensure sustainable water supply. Members also noted that a stronger policy instrument may be needed to institutionalize the participation of concerned agencies and stakeholders in watershed management efforts.

The Committee likewise adopted Policy Resolution No. 6, Series of 2026, recommending the strengthening of research, development, and innovation-based risk management strategies for emerging and climate-induced pests and diseases, and Policy Resolution No. 7, Series of 2026, recommending the re-evaluation of support mechanisms and the provision of timely response assistance to climate-affected agri-fishery communities affected by El Niño, La Niña, and other climate-related disasters. | Joy Camille Luza

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In a move to build a more resilient and equitable food system, the National Sectoral Committee on Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (NSC on GESI) is advancing strengthened policy reforms within the Department of Agriculture (DA) and other government bodies with agri-fishery related programs.

During the second quarter meeting of the Committee on June 9, 2026, members emphasized that gender and social development should no longer be treated as isolated programs. Instead, stakeholders are pushing to mainstream these principles into regular government operations to directly boost food security among the sector’s most vulnerable food producers and retail workers.

“By increasing the gender quota across all government agencies and bureaus, there is a conscious effort to strengthen the participation of women, Indigenous Peoples, and other marginalized sectors in all agri-fishery initiatives. Our objective is to turn these policy recommendations into actionable steps and permanently integrate them within legally accountable government frameworks,” said NSC on GESI Chairperson Hazel Tanchuling.

Enhancing policy accountability for the marginalized

A primary focus of the Committee’s structural reform is ensuring that Gender and Development mandates are strictly implemented and backed by legal accountability. To address this, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Center for Gender Equality and Women’s Rights briefed the Committee on concrete legal measures and accountability for state agencies failing to uphold these directives.

By enforcing transparent budget execution and robust policy compliance, the committee seeks to secure equitable state support for marginalized groups, such as indigenous peoples, youth, and both male and female agri-retailers, who form the backbone of the local food supply chain.

The CHR clarified that the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) will still handle monitoring agency compliance and will submit a list of non-compliant government agencies to the CHR. The CHR, tasked to monitor policy violations, will then initiate formal investigations into the flagged agencies to enforce legal accountability.

Targeted initiatives to boost A/F food security

To translate these policy reforms into real impacts on food security, several key government agencies presented targeted socio-economic mechanisms during the meeting.

The Landbank of the Philippines highlighted tailored credit facilities and financial services specifically structured to empower women and marginalized farmers and fisherfolk. The Department of Social Welfare and Development detailed the features of the Walang Gutom 2027 Food Stamp Program, exploring strategic linkages with the local agriculture and fisheries sector to ensure sustained food access.

Meanwhile, the DA Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service presented the operational mechanics of the Young Farmers Challenge Season 6, aiming to actively engage citizens aged 18 to 30 in sustainable agricultural entrepreneurship. The application period opened on June 1 and will run until July 31, 2026.

The Committee also highlighted Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council updates. The Davao Region’s recommendations addressed wage gaps for women and healthcare barriers for persons with disabilities, while the Cordillera Administrative Region recommended policies to institutionalize the Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4K) Program and establish a national program for heirloom rice.

The Committee suggested broadening the heirloom-related policy scopes to look beyond just production factors by integrating environmental conservation and farmer incentivization.

NSC on GESI Chairperson Tanchuling emphasized that these frameworks should expand their reach to include the Nationally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems and other critical sectors, rather than limiting focus exclusively to heirloom rice initiatives. | Jezebel Campaniel

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Future policies on Philippine bioethanol feedstocks could change after stakeholders from the National Sectoral Committees on Corn and on Livestock and Poultry met on June 4, 2026 via hybrid format to discuss amendments to Joint Administrative Order (JAO) No. 2008-1.

The proposed amendment seeks to lift government restrictions and officially add corn to sugarcane and molasses as approved bioethanol feedstocks. The proposal still requires final approval from the National Biofuels Board.

Department of Agriculture (DA) Assistant Secretary for Operations U-Nichols Manalo cited the ongoing fuel crisis as a primary driver behind the policy review, noting that local corn growers have long pushed for inclusion in the bioethanol market.

“We all know we are facing a fuel crisis, which is why we are again discussing the biofuel program,” Asec. Manalo said.

“During the three-island Corn Congresses held last year, participants passed a resolution supporting the delisting of corn so it can be used for ethanol. We are holding this consultation to gather your inputs and address your anxieties because, then again, the elephant in the room is the food-versus-fuel debate,” he added.

Asec. Manalo also acknowledged the historical concerns regarding land competition that originally led to corn’s restriction, emphasizing that the government wants to weigh all perspectives on this traditional “land utilization versus food, feed, and fuel” argument.

Potential benefits and risks

Advocates see the amendment as an alternative revenue stream for farmers during lean seasons. In a study from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), experts proposed using seasonal yellow corn oversupply directly into ethanol production, particularly during the wet season when drying facilities are scarce and farmgate prices drop.

Additionally, the Department of Energy (DOE) noted that transitioning to higher blend levels, such as Ethanol 20 (E20), a fuel blend consisting of 20% bioethanol and 80% gasoline, could reduce pump prices by as much as PhP5 per liter compared to current E10 formulations.

According to the DOE, blending locally produced ethanol also enhances energy security by reducing the country’s reliance on imported fossil fuels. 

However, according to the livestock and poultry sectors, the Philippines currently meets only 62.7% of its yellow corn requirements domestically, and the crop comprises roughly half of all animal feed formulations. 

With the hog industry still recovering from African Swine Fever, groups like the United Broiler Raisers Association warned that diverting local corn to fuel production could force meat producers into a greater dependence on costly imports.

As a potential middle ground, the Philippine Association of Feed Millers Inc. signaled an openness to incorporating Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS), a nutrient-dense byproduct of corn ethanol production, into animal feed mixes to help offset supply pressures.

While this proposal drew cautious interest, livestock groups maintained that DDGS would not fully compensate for a reduction in the direct corn supply.

Next steps

To reconcile these opposing concerns, the Department of Agrarian Reform and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples are exploring the utilization of idle landholdings and ancestral domains to expand corn production without displacing existing food supplies.

The DOE emphasized that any policy rollout will be evidence-based, carefully monitored, and introduced in stages.

Stakeholders also highlighted the need to balance feed and fuel uses, conduct updated studies on DDGS utilization, and strengthen direct market linkages between farmers and end-users. Overall, the proposed JAO amendment was viewed positively for its potential to expand market opportunities and improve the income of corn farmers, subject to appropriate safeguards.

The �����Ƶ-NSC Secretariat and the National Corn Program will consolidate all consultation feedback into a formal report for the National Biofuels Board’s consideration in its upcoming review. | Jezebel Campaniel

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The National Sectoral Committee (NSC) on Fisheries and Aquaculture–Sub-Committee on Salt adopted key recommendations supporting the continued implementation of Republic Act (RA) 11985, or the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act, during its first semester meeting on June 2, 2026.

Among the resolutions adopted was a recommendation to approve the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources’ (BFAR) proposed FY 2027 Tier 2 budget, which pertains to additional funding for new and expanded programs beyond the agency’s regular allocation. This budget seeks to support salt industry development through expanding salt production regions, establishing training, research, marketing, and post-harvest facilities, empowering stakeholders, and harmonizing legal and regulatory requirements.

Supporting the recommendation, Dr. Hannibal Chavez, head of BFAR’s National Salt Program Management Office, reported on ongoing initiatives under the law. These include regulatory reforms allowing salt production within Fishpond Lease Agreement areas alongside fishpond operations and aquasilviculture. He added that the amendments also streamlined application requirements while ensuring compliance with existing land classifications and regulations.

The Committee also reviewed updates on other initiatives supporting RA 11985 implementation, including organizational development activities for salt producers, efforts to identify lands suitable for salt production, regulatory measures on the Salt Production Tenurial Instrument, salt registration and importation, and the implementation of tax exemption provisions for the industry.

Meanwhile, the Committee reviewed progress on Policy Resolution No. 26, Series of 2025, which recommended reclassifying salt production under the Philippine Standard Industrial Classification (PSIC).

Emerson Aquino of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that consultations with stakeholders and government agencies highlighted the need to consider the entire salt value chain in official statistics. He added that the revised PSIC, approved by the PSA Board in May 2026, strengthens the coverage of salt-related economic activities and introduces five (5) new subclasses for salt-related activities.

Aquino also shared plans to establish a technical working group to further develop a Salt Industry Classification Framework and continue consultations with government agencies and industry stakeholders.

The Committee agreed that the proposed body may also address the classification of agricultural applications of salt, including Agricultural Grade Salt Fertilizer, as well as the integration of sex-disaggregated data and other gender mainstreaming initiatives in the development of the framework. | Joy Camille Luza

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