Philippines Inaugurates South Korea-Backed Greenhouse for Climate-Resilient Farming
South Korea Helps Philippines Build Climate-Resilient Farms with New Greenhouse Technology
Lucban, Quezon - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. inaugurated a state-of-the-art greenhouse and post-harvest facility in Lucban, Quezon, marking a important step in the philippines’ drive to modernize agriculture and combat the effects of climate change.
!Image of the greenhouse facility in Lucban, Quezon
This facility, backed by the South Korean government through the Korea Partnership for Innovation of Agriculture (KOPIA), is one of 20 greenhouses established in pilot villages across Quezon, Laguna, and nueva Ecija.
“The turnover of these greenhouses and post-harvest facilities by KOPIA opens a new chapter in our agricultural sector—one rooted in partnership, driven by innovation, and aimed at achieving food security for our nation,” President Marcos said during the inauguration.
Secretary Tiu Laurel echoed the President’s sentiments, expressing gratitude to KOPIA for collaborating with the bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) and the local government of Lucban to bring the project to fruition.
“This greenhouse represents more than just infrastructure; it symbolizes innovation, hope, and the power of collaboration,” Secretary Tiu Laurel stated. “It reflects our shared vision of lasting farming that adapts to the evolving needs of our agricultural sector.”
The Secretary highlighted the growing threat of climate change on Philippine agriculture, citing unpredictable weather patterns, disruptions to planting schedules due to El Niño, and the increasing prevalence of pests. He emphasized that adopting modern farming technologies, such as greenhouse cultivation, is crucial for ensuring food security in the face of these environmental challenges.The new facilities, made possible through KOPIA’s support, introduce advanced farming practices to local farmers, particularly in protective cultivation. This method allows for year-round crop production, which is essential for maintaining stable food supplies amidst the unpredictable climate.
“This initiative marks a significant step towards modernizing Philippine agriculture,” Secretary Tiu Laurel noted. “The Department of Agriculture continues to push for innovations that increase agricultural production and improve farmers’ incomes.”
In line with President Marcos Jr.’s vision for Philippine agriculture, Secretary Tiu Laurel reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening agricultural systems and supporting small-scale farmers, who are among the most vulnerable to climate change.
“Our goal is not only to ensure food security but also to build resilient farming systems that empower our farmers,” he said.
Climate-Resilient Farms: A Q&A with Agriculture Secretary francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.
NewsDirectory3: Secretary Tiu Laurel, congratulations on the prosperous inauguration of the new greenhouse and post-harvest facility in Lucban.what does this project signify for Philippine agriculture?
Secretary tiu Laurel: Thank you. This facility represents a pivotal step towards modernizing Philippine agriculture and building resilience against the growing threat of climate change. It symbolizes our commitment to innovation,collaboration,and ensuring food security for our nation.
NewsDirectory3: How does this project, supported by KOPIA, address the challenges posed by climate change on Philippine farmers?
Secretary Tiu Laurel: The unpredictable weather patterns, disruptions caused by El Niño, and the rise in pests significantly threaten our agricultural sector. This project introduces advanced farming practices like protective cultivation within greenhouses, allowing for year-round crop production, which is crucial for stable food supplies amidst these challenges.
NewsDirectory3: Can you elaborate on the importance of protective cultivation and how it benefits both farmers and consumers?
Secretary Tiu Laurel: protective cultivation offers farmers a controlled habitat to grow crops nonetheless of external weather conditions. This ensures consistent yields, minimizes crop losses, and ultimately leads to a more stable food supply for consumers.
NewsDirectory3: What is the government’s long-term vision for Philippine agriculture in the face of climate change?
Secretary Tiu Laurel: Our vision aligns with President Marcos Jr.’s call for a modern and resilient agricultural sector.We are committed to strengthening our agricultural systems, empowering small-scale farmers, and promoting sustainable practices that increase productivity while adapting to the challenges posed by climate change. This includes investing in research and development, promoting climate-smart agriculture, and supporting farmers in adopting innovative technologies like greenhouse cultivation.