The Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) has reaffirmed its commitment to modernize and safeguard the country’s animal protein, feed, and gamefowl industries.
Speaking at the Philippine Livestock, Feedmill and Gamefowl Congress, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr emphasized the urgent need to strengthen the agricultural sector in the face of climate change, supply disruptions, and intensifying global competition.
Disease control and feed innovation
Mr Tiu Laurel outlined several modernization efforts and programs, including stricter disease control measures—particularly against avian influenza (AI) and African swine fever, which continue to pose significant threats to the animal protein sector.
In recent months, the Philippines has faced renewed challenges from AI. In early May, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) confirmed the country’s first case of H5N9 in ducks. As of May 23 however, BAI data show that AI continue to affect nine provinces in five regions. However, the last recorded case of highly pathogenic AI was on April 30,, 2025.
He also stressed the strategic role of feedmillers in supporting animal health, creating rural employment, and stabilizing markets for essential commodities like corn. The DA, he said, is pushing for innovation in local feed ingredients and more sustainable production systems to address rising costs and supply constraints.
Stronger public-private collaboration
Despite government efforts, Mr Tiu Laurel acknowledge that lasting progress cannot be achieved by the government alone. He underscored the importance of collaboration with the private sector to accelerate innovation and sustainable growth in the sector. These partnerships are crucial to achieve food security and rural development.
The congress was held from May 30-31, 2025, in Batangas provinces one of the country’s top producers of animal protein and feed products.