Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel emphasized that the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) will play a crucial role in strengthening the country’s food security as it takes charge of promoting agricultural innovation and enhancing food production and safety.

Laurel issued this declaration in his keynote address during the BPI’s 95th anniversary celebration on Wednesday, Jan. 22, as he lauded the agency for its “foundational role” in driving the Philippines’ agricultural development.

He noted that the bureau’s accomplishments in 2024—which include supporting farmers, safeguarding crops, and ensuring safe food supply—reflect its sheer commitment to Filipinos.

The agriculture secretary likewise cited the increase in production support, improvement in training and extension services, the revitalized research and regulation, and new export market opportunities as among the BPI’s successes.

“Through technology, innovation, and support for farmers, we resolve to continue making agriculture a vital driver of national growth and resilience,” said Laurel.

The BPI, he said, is now setting its sights this year towards advancing the plant industry, farm productivity, and biotechnology for a more resilient agricultural sector.

Last year, the sector faced a dry spell brought on by the El Niño phenomenon, which was then succeeded by crop damage caused by La Niña as the year ended.

As a result, Laurel said the BPI is looking to harness the reserves of climate-resilient seeds, particularly through supporting local seed production and fostering crop research through tissue culture and plant genetic resources.

“The Bureau will also expand market access for our high-value crops while developing infrastructure like cold storage and food processing facilities,” he added.

As an attached agency of the DA, the BPI is set to play a role in the department’s vision of making food more accessible to Filipino consumers.

The bureau will soon launch a permanent Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) store in its main office in Malate, Manila.

A temporary weekend KNP activity in its office was held last year, which supported farmers, cooperatives, and associations (FCAs), as well as consumers in the Malate area.

With the aid of advanced monitoring systems, the BPI said it aims to intensify its initiatives in promoting sustainable pest management, honing food safety, and streamlining seed certification processes.

Laurel, meanwhile, noted that the bureau will also be refurnishing its laboratories this year. 

This is alongside additional training for the technical skills of quarantine officers and staff to better serve the plant industry.

The DA chief further said that BPI will also be committed to strengthening international partnerships, hosting global meetings, and advancing programs for food safety, security, and agricultural trade. 

“Through these initiatives, BPI aims to cultivate a more resilient, sustainable, and globally competitive agricultural sector that can meet both local and global demands while ensuring long-term food security for the nation,” he explained.