Newly appointed Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.'s vast experience in the private sector should be beneficial in propelling the agency to help the agricultural sector.

This was the perspective of Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa that he shared during a weekly forum in Quezon City yesterday.

De Mesa expressed confidence Laurel could bring in new directions for the department and its stakeholders, and carry out the President's marching orders to expand local agricultural production and ensure affordable prices for agricultural commodities, pointing out that the agriculture sector was not new to him.

The new secretary reported to the agency's offices shortly after he was sworn in on Friday morning to meet with the other Department of Agriculture officials.

De Mesa said Laurel, as a Private Sector Advisory Council member, has been exposed to the industry's multifaceted challenges and concerns.

Prior to his appointment, Laurel headed Frabelle Fishing Corp. He also held key positions in Gravelle Shipyard Corp., Frabelle Properties Corp., Markham Resources Corp., Bacoor Seafront Development Corp. and Bukidnon Hydro Energy Corp.

Divested from interests

Laurel has divested his interests in these companies in compliance with the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

Senator Francis Escudero lauded the President's decision to appoint a full-time agriculture secretary to better address the issues hounding the agricultural sector.

Escudero welcomed Marcos's appointment of Laurel, saying, "A full-time secretary who is knowledgeable of the industry and its challenges bodes well for the agriculture sector."

"I commend PBBM for finally choosing a full-time secretary of agriculture. His choice has extensive exposure and knowledge in fishing and agriculture," he said.