AGRISENSO PLUS LAUNCH. Landbank launches the Agrisenso Plus Lending Program in Albay on Friday (June 26, 2026), marking the 16th provincial leg of the nationwide rollout. The program offers accessible credit assistance to farmers, fisherfolk and ARBs with fixed 3% interest rates. (Photo courtesy of Melrose Lagonoy)
The Land Bank of the Philippines (Landbank) on Friday strengthened its support for Albay’s agriculture and business sectors by rolling out its Agrisenso Plus Program and the Uswag, Oragon MSME Fair, bringing financing, digital banking services and capacity-building programs closer to farmers, fisherfolk and entrepreneurs.
Held at the Albay Astrodome and Pepperland Hotel, the events gathered more than 1,000 farmers, fisherfolk and agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs), as well as over 300 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Under the Agrisenso Plus Lending Program, Landbank offers accessible financing, insurance and technical assistance to support the entire agricultural value chain.
Eligible small farmers and fisherfolk, ARBs and agriculture graduates may avail of loans carrying a fixed interest rate of 3 percent per annum, while cooperatives and ARB organizations may borrow at 5 percent annually.
Borrowers may obtain financing of up to 90 percent of production costs or 80 percent of fixed asset acquisition costs, with loan terms of up to 10 years. The program also provides free life and credit life insurance, simplified digital loan application through the Landbank Mobile Banking App, and specialized training under the ASCEND Program.
Landmark First Vice President for National Development Lending Sector Eden Japitana said more than 200 beneficiaries have already secured approved loans, with their ATM cards prepared for immediate withdrawal of loan proceeds.
“More than 200 beneficiaries have already been approved. Those holding ATM cards can now access their loan proceeds because the funds have already been credited,” Japitana said.
She encouraged more farmers, particularly first-time borrowers, to avail themselves of the program, citing its low fixed interest rate and free insurance benefits amid rising production costs and fluctuating commodity prices.
“We’re looking forward to seeing more farmers avail themselves of the program and benefit from its low-interest financing,” Japitana said.
Shariza Shaika Requiero, a former overseas Filipino worker and ARB, said she returned to farming after realizing that opportunities abroad do not always guarantee a better future. Inspired by her grandfather, she pursued agriculture and now leads fellow farmers in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.
Requiero is now chairperson of the Quipia Agrarian Cooperative in Jovellar, Albay, and owner of Rancho Requiero Integrated Farm School Inc. She said government financing and technical support have encouraged more farmers to adopt modern farming methods and agribusiness.
“As a farmer, I have seen how people’s lives can change when they are given opportunities, adequate knowledge, and the right support,” Requiero said.
Launched in November 2024, Agrisenso Plus has reached 16 provinces, including Albay. As of April 2026, the program has released more than PHP3.68 billion in loans, benefiting over 15,200 small farmers and fisherfolk nationwide.
The Uswag, Oragon MSME Fair served as a platform for more than 300 MSME exhibitors to connect with government agencies and financial institutions while showcasing their products. The fair also highlighted Landbnk’s SULONG MSME Solution Suite and LIFTING MSMEs Lending Program, providing entrepreneurs with access to affordable financing, digital banking solutions, and business development support.
Landbank said the MSME initiatives seek to address limited access to affordable financing, cash flow constraints, slow digital adoption and the need for capability-building. MSMEs account for 99.6 percent of business establishments in the country and employ about 65 percent of the Philippine workforce. (PNA)