The Philippines and South Korea have reaffirmed their commitment to agricultural cooperation in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the two countries’ close bilateral relations.
Through Letters of Intent signed by Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. and Korean Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) Song Miryung, the two leaders underscored the mutual benefits of enhancing sustainable agricultural development, promoting food security, and fostering economic growth.
The LOI signing was held during a bilateral meeting of the agriculture ministers in Seoul, South Korea on June 11, 2024. Philippine Ambassador Maria Theresa B. Dizon De Vega and officials from both DA and MAFRA were present to witness the momentous occasion.
Sec. Tiu Laurel expressed eagerness to deepen cooperation with MAFRA, highlighting discussions on new technical projects and efforts to secure market access for Philippine agricultural exports, including calamansi and poultry products destined for the Korean market.
In recognition of the fruitful collaboration since the establishment of the Philippine Agriculture Office in Seoul under Agriculture Attaché Aleli Maghirang in 2016, Sec. Tiu Laurel presented special fresh hass avocado fruits and fresh okra from the Philippines as tokens of appreciation. The Philippines gained market access for fresh hass avocados in 2023 and fresh okra in 2021, marking significant milestones in bilateral agricultural trade.
During his visit, Sec. Tiu Laurel also inaugurated the Philippine pavilion at Seoul Food Expo 2024, showcasing products from the Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association and a delegation of DA agribusiness exporters. Additionally, he held official meetings with Korea Agricultural Machinery Industry Cooperative and potential investors to further bolster agricultural sector collaboration.
The events underscore the commitment of both nations to deepen agricultural ties, capitalize on trade opportunities, and promote mutual prosperity as they mark 75 years of fruitful partnership. ###
