By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
In high-level talks on November 13, the Department of Agriculture (D.A.) engaged with key Canadian officials to deepen the two countries’ agricultural cooperation and expand their partnership in other aspects of food production.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. met with Canada’s Secretary of State for International Development, Hon. Randeep Sarai on trade and investment opportunities.
Canada expressed interest in supporting the Philippines in cacao and coffee development, climate-resilient agriculture, IUU-fishing monitoring, and regulatory capacity-building.
The North American nation likewise vowed a CAD26-million investment package for global agricultural initiatives, underscoring its commitment to supporting the country’s agricultural industries.
Secretary Tiu Laurel Jr. underscored the need to improve logistics, cold-chain systems, and value-adding for high-value crops, “Canada remains a vital partner in strengthening our agricultural sector. Our shared commitment to food security, value-adding, and technical cooperation positions both countries for long-term, mutually beneficial growth.”
On dairy cooperation, National Dairy Authority (NDA) Administrator Marcus Andaya outlined the Philippines’ interest in Canadian dairy genetics, semen, live animals, and knowledge exchange on farm conditions and cow comfort.
He added that the Department is constructing a new rice fortification plant and seeks Canada’s guidance on expanding fortification to other products, stressing the importance of a resilient supply chain for fortification inputs and technology.
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