Agri chief wants to lower Philippines' 40% post-harvest loss rate through modernization

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. on Monday announced a strategic modernization plan to address the Philippines' agriculture sector's high post-harvest losses which, he said, can currently reach up to 40 percent  in some cases.

The plan was revealed during a forum hosted by the Makati Business Club, with the aim of improving productivity, food security, and farmer incomes.

In a statement, the Agriculture chief said the key to the strategy is reducing inefficiencies caused by outdated infrastructure, particularly through mechanization and improved logistics.

Tiu Laurel emphasized the necessity of partnerships between the government and private sector to accelerate modernization efforts. He proposed the formation of consultative councils with agriculture stakeholders to provide continuous feedback and recalibrate policies and programs.

Tiu Laurel cited global data indicating that food losses between harvest and retail average 14 percent, with a further 17 percent loss during later stages.

In the Philippines, these inefficiencies are higher, with post-harvest losses for key crops such as rice and corn peaking at 40 percent.

Agriculture Secretary  Francisco Tiu Laurel

Pushing for greater modernization to improve efficiencies and raise farmers' incomes

The Department of Agriculture’s modernization initiative involves mechanizing farm processes, upgrading infrastructure, and using science-driven strategies to improve logistics, such as farm-to-market roads, tramlines, and seaports.

These improvements will streamline the transport of agricultural goods, reduce costs, and ensure more efficient distribution.

In addition, Tiu Laurel highlighted the importance of adopting advanced farming practices, including digital tools that provide real-time data to farmers and fishermen, enabling smarter decision-making. This modernization drive is seen as crucial for transforming the sector and boosting its profitability.

“Modernizing the agri-fishery sector requires science and information-driven decision-making through digitalization,” he said. “This seeks to equip stakeholders with advanced tools and technology, as well as real-time data thus enabling our farmers and fishermen make smarter, data-driven decisions.”

Expanding access to both local and international markets is also part of the strategy, aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of Filipino farmers while overcoming trade barriers.