Agriculture Secretary Manny Piñol and Russian Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Igor Khovaev discuss efforts that seek to strengthen trade relations between Philippines and Russia. During the talks, Piñol mentioned that the DA is looking into the possible importation of wheat and fertilizers from Russia, as well as the acquisition of farm machineries. “We have P5-billion peso budget for rice production mechanization this year alone. Mechanizing Philippine agriculture will surely boost our productivity and efficiency.” Piñol stressed. For his part, Khovaev assured the agri chief that the Russian government is ready to help DA realize its goals towards the sustainable development of Philippine agriculture. ###