The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) will have a new acting Executive Director.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel formally inducted into office on January 10, 2025 Deputy Director Glenn D. Estrada as new acting Executive Director of the FPA, succeeding Julieta B. Lansangan who retired last month.
The FPA plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and proper use of fertilizers and pesticides in the country. As the agency responsible for regulating the importation, distribution, sale, and use of these agricultural inputs, the FPA directly impacts the productivity and sustainability of the Philippine agricultural sector.
Under Estrada’s leadership, the FPA is expected to further fulfill its mandate of fostering sustainable agricultural practices through innovative and science-based solutions.
Estrada’s appointment brings a wealth of experience and a forward-looking perspective to the agency. A graduate of BS Agricultural Economics from the University of the Philippines Los Baños, Estrada has built an impressive career marked by his dedication to public service and innovation in agriculture.
His early professional years at the Philippine Rice Research Institute and the Department of Agriculture-Office of the Secretary provided him with substantial technical knowledge and operational expertise. During this time, he honed his skills in project management and developed strong networks across government and private sector stakeholders.
Estrada's work as a Planning Officer III and later as the Department’s Legislative Liaison Specialist demonstrated his strategic thinking and his capacity to drive impactful initiatives. His role in crafting sectoral medium-term plans and commodity roadmaps showcased his ability to align policies and projects with the sector's evolving needs.
In 2023, Estrada earned a Master’s Degree in Development Management, receiving accolades for academic excellence and leadership. His award-winning capstone project focused on integrating technology into the agriculture sector, a theme that has defined his recent work as Deputy Director of the National Rice Program and Director-Designate for Digitalization and Value Chain Development.
Last year, Estrada received the PMDP-Dangal Award from the Development Academy of the Philippines, recognizing his visionary efforts to digitize the Philippine rice sector and introduce innovative solutions to pressing agricultural challenges.
Estrada brings to the FPA a vision rooted in innovation and sustainability. "The future of Philippine agriculture lies in embracing modern technologies while ensuring that we remain stewards of our environment," Estrada shared in his address after the oath-taking ceremony.