Following tradition, the three-day celebration of the 29th anniversary of #AgriLink officially opened today, October 3, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

This year’s theme, “The Best of Philippine Agri to the World,” emphasizes the tremendous potential of the country’s agricultural exports. It highly promotes agri-exports and highlights ongoing efforts to expand into global markets, which are essential for driving trade, fostering economic growth, and promoting sustainable development.

The event kicked off with a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony, featuring notable guests such as Congresswoman Camille Villar, Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness, Marketing, Consumer Affairs, and the KADIWA Program head Atty. Genevieve E. Velicaria-Guevarra, various Ambassadors, other dignitaries, and the officials and organizers of the Foundation for Resource Linkage and Development Inc. (FRLD).

Atty. Guevarra served as the keynote speaker of the event. She delivered a message, emphasizing the Philippines’ rich natural resources and the essential role of farmers and fisherfolk.

“The heart of our bountiful resources are our hardworking farmers and fisherfolk. The Department of Agriculture has been focusing on initiatives such as farm consolidation and clustering, the adoption of modern technologies, value-adding processes, and capacity-building programs—all aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of our agricultural sector in the global market,” Atty. Guevarra shared.

Following the opening ceremony, the officials explored the diverse exhibits showcasing the latest innovations in agriculture, featuring a wide range of products and services, from advanced farming technologies to sustainable practices that prioritize environmental stewardship.

Alongside the exhibits, a series of seminars and workshops took place throughout the day, covering important topics such as sustainable farming techniques, market access strategies, and the significance of digital transformation in agriculture.

The Department proudly highlighted four major projects demonstrating its commitment to modernizing Philippine agriculture:

• The Philippines Solar Irrigation Project;
• Farm-to-Market Road Development Program;
• Post-Harvest Facilities and Mechanization; and
• The Logistics Chain Modernization Program.

As part of this event, the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service of the Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry, stakeholders, and the private sector, organized an entrepreneurial investment forum for agriculture titled “Usapang Agribiz.” The forum will delve into key topics shaping the future of Philippine agricultural exports, including:

• Discovering Global Prospects: The Expansion of Emerging Markets;
• Beyond Borders: Navigating Export Documentation and Procedures with Ease;
• Global Reach: Strengthening Exports through Logistics Development and Strategic Supply Chain Management; and
• From Farm to Global Market: Elevating Philippine Digital Agriculture for Export Success.

Additionally, a Roundtable Discussion will feature the inspiring journeys of Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) awardees, covering the following topics:

• Brewing Success: Young Farmers’ Journey in Coffee Export;
• Fruitful Futures: Young Farmers’ Path to Exporting Bananas; and
• From Kitchen to World: Exporting Innovative Spice Creations.

Participants are encouraged to engage fully, share their experiences, and contribute to enhancing food security, driving economic growth, and uplifting communities. With unwavering commitment and support, there is confidence that the Philippine agricultural export sector can be elevated to even greater heights. ### (DA-Office of the Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness, Marketing and Consumer Affairs)