The Department of Agriculture (DA) rolled out a PHP300-million program to strengthen climate-resilient farming for high-value vegetables such as chili, tomatoes, and bell peppers, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said Friday.
The department said the initiative aims to reduce recurring price swings caused by heavy rains, floods, and heatwaves that disrupt the production of these crops.
The program will support year-round cultivation through greenhouses, rain shelters, drip irrigation, and water storage systems, helping farmers maintain output despite changing weather conditions.
Tiu Laurel said the initiative was modeled after protected farming systems in South Korea and Cambodia, focusing on cooperative production instead of individual farms. Local seed and seedling hubs will supply planting materials, while women and youth will be trained in technical farming skills.
The department said production sites will be located near major urban markets, including Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao, to reduce transport time and minimize post-harvest losses. During the pilot stage, Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) will buy harvests at pre-arranged prices, providing income security for farmers.
The DA said the program also includes cold storage facilities and small-scale processing centers to extend shelf life, reduce food loss, and create additional income opportunities for farming communities.
Currently, only around 500 hectares of protected farms exist nationwide. Tiu Laurel said expanding to 5,000 hectares by 2027 would strengthen vegetable production and improve supply stability.
The department said a successful rollout could lead to nationwide adoption, helping farmers cope with weather disruptions and providing a steady supply of vegetables to urban markets.