With 17 months of anticipation, a capable and dedicated Secretary finally assumes leadership at the Department of Agriculture.

Fishing magnate Francisco "Kiko" Tiu Laurel Jr., chosen by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., brings a profound understanding of agriculture to his role. United by a lasting friendship, they join forces to revolutionize the sector and create positive change.

As he steps into his new public service mandate, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for making a difference. His appointment signifies a commitment to addressing the issues plaguing the agricultural landscape and finding innovative solutions for sustainable growth.

But how did this understanding come to be? Secretary Laurel's journey is rooted in his family's legacy. His parents, Francis and Bella Tiu-Laurel, started Frabelle, a humble net fishing company, years ago. Growing up in this environment, Kiko witnessed firsthand the challenges and solutions within the agriculture industry.

His Frabelle story is a testament to the power of family legacy and the transformative potential of combining passion with expertise.

Who is Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.?

Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. is a true inspiration and a force to be reckoned with.

At the tender age of 28, Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. assumed the role of President at Frabelle Fishing Corporation, a remarkable achievement that captured the attention of many. Yet, there is so much more to this extraordinary individual than his age suggests.

It was his insatiable thirst for knowledge and unparalleled work ethic that truly set him apart. For five consecutive years, Laurel dedicated 45 days of his life to the company's ships, immersing himself in the intricacies of their machinery and engineering. These experiences became the bedrock upon which his vision for sustainability was built.

"While you are onboard a ship, there is so much machinery and engineering to use and operate, which I gladly helped out with. I learned so much from those experiences that last for the next couple of generations, if not more — forever, if possible — but without sustainability, that will not be possible," he said in an earlier interview.

For the survival of the family's first business and for it to remain one of the biggest businesses, he said they needed to be sustainable.

But he didn't stop there. Fueled by a burning desire to make a difference, he spearheaded the expansion of Frabelle's market, bringing its exceptional products to numerous countries worldwide.

His dedication and expertise have earned him the prestigious positions of president of the Agusan Power Corporation and chairman of the World Tuna Purse Seine Organization.

Under his guidance, the remarkable Lake Mainit Hydropower Plant in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, was inaugurated in July 2023, generating 24.9 megawatts of clean energy.

Now, Secretary Laurel Jr., known affectionately as Secretary Kiko, is poised to embark on a new chapter of his remarkable journey. Recently appointed to a vital role in the government, he aims to leverage his extensive network and rich private-sector experience to benefit the fishing industry and the farmers and fishermen who hold a special place in his heart.

In a heartfelt speech immediately after his appointment, Secretary Kiko expressed his deep connection with those who toil the land and navigate the waters, acknowledging their struggles and dreams. With an open-door policy, he reassured them that his office would always be a welcoming space for their concerns and aspirations.

Secretary Kiko shared his profound insights, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in securing the future of their first business. With foresight that transcends generations, he recognized that their success could only endure if it embraced the principles of sustainability.

He has left an impressive mark on the business and agricultural sectors as a leader and philanthropist. As the president of Frabelle Fishing Corporation, he proudly proclaims their recognition as one of the Top 3 fishing companies worldwide, renowned for their excellence in the tuna industry. Frabelle has stood as a testament to Filipino ingenuity and global respect for two decades.

Recognizing his exceptional qualities, Laurel was chosen to join Marcos' Private Sector Advisory Council, a testament to his expertise and ability to contribute to transformative change in the agricultural sector. The Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food, a group representing farmers, expressed their support for Laurel, praising his understanding of their challenges and his genuine commitment to addressing them.

Secretary Kiko addresses concerns about potential conflicts of interest by assuring that he has completely divested himself from his previous business ventures.

Despite once being a billionaire, he now identifies as a millionaire. Laurel emphasized the need for unwavering dedication in his role, acknowledging that he cannot afford any other commitments or activities. Initially hesitant, he ultimately accepted the invitation to join the DA out of a deep desire to contribute to the betterment of the nation.

Solving agri problems ahead

Secretary Kiko's profound comprehension of the fisheries sector and food processing gives him a unique perspective on addressing challenges related to food security, exports, and other agricultural issues.

When asked how he would tackle the problem of excessive importation of meats and poultry products in the country, he said he would need to examine the data regarding production versus demand.

Hence, he plans to reactivate the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics to help manage food production in the country.

"The issue right now is that the available agricultural-related data needs to be completed. Our data is not that accurate," he said in one of his briefings.

The President's directive, he said, is to modernize agriculture, aiming for the country to achieve food security, avoid being dependent on importation, and elevate millions of farmers and fisherfolk out of poverty by the conclusion of his term.

With a resolute stance against importation, Secretary Kiko is dedicated to boosting domestic agricultural production.

"I firmly believe that Filipinos can produce more. However, strategic imports are necessary when required. Achieving the right balance entails managing demand appropriately."

To truly understand the challenges farmers and fisherfolk face, he plans to personally engage with them, listening to their needs, concerns and aspirations. Through his hands-on approach, he aims to bring about tangible improvements in their lives.

In producing more agricultural commodities, he is firm that he is "not for importation."

"I will personally talk to the farmers and fishermen to hear directly from them what they need, their concerns, and their vision. I want to see their situation."

Behind his story is a wisdom that success lies not only in attaining positions of influence but in the relentless pursuit of knowledge, commitment to growth, and dedication to sustainable practices.

Secretary Kiko's posting puts the DA in excellent hands.