The Department of Agriculture (DA) is prioritizing food security this year, with key goals that include a record rice harvest and improvements to agricultural systems.

“We achieved significant progress in 2024, but 2025 demands bigger goals and a stronger resolve,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a message read for him by Undersecretary for Operations Roger Navarro during the first Management Committee meeting of the year.

In a statement on Tuesday, the DA outlined its 2025 goals, including a rice harvest target of 20.46-million metric tons (MMT) and enhanced logistics for perishable goods like vegetables and fruits.

Laurel emphasized the need to improve infrastructure, such as cold chain systems and regional production hubs, to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure food availability in local markets.

However, the department acknowledged the challenges posed by rising fuel and fertilizer costs, as well as global economic factors that are increasing production expenses for farmers.

Despite these challenges, Laurel expressed optimism for the year ahead, noting that the DA is focused on its goals. “We have the tools and resources to succeed, but our success depends on your leadership, collaboration and commitment,” he said.

The DA’s preliminary estimate for the 2024 rice yield is approximately 19.3 MMT, falling short of the Philippines’ record rice harvest of 20.06 MMT in 2023.