To help push President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s goal of revitalizing rural economies and creating more jobs outside the cities, the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Tourism (DoT) are teaming up to promote food and farm tourism. This initiative aims to attract more foreign visitors while encouraging Filipinos to explore local destinations.

“This is exactly the kind of opportunity we’ve been waiting for — quick wins and low-hanging fruit,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. after Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco presented the DoT’s plan for collaboration.

Tiu Laurel shared that the DA already has funding ready for projects like organic farming, livestock, mariculture, and aquaculture, as well as infrastructure needs such as farm-to-market roads, cold storage, ice plants, and greenhouses.

“We even have a budget set aside for rehabilitating the Banaue Rice Terraces,” he added. “Just point us to where help is needed, and we’ll work on restoring their beauty so more tourists can enjoy them.”

Secretary Frasco highlighted four main areas for cooperation: developing gastronomy tourism, expanding farm tourism, improving infrastructure and connectivity, and strengthening local supply chains.

To make these plans a reality, both departments have created a technical working group. This team will draft a detailed roadmap within six months, focusing on pilot sites like Bohol, Iloilo, and Benguet — places known for rich culinary traditions, cultural sites, and strong agricultural production. The plan will cover market rollout, farm-to-market access, and needed infrastructure improvements.

Together, agriculture and tourism contribute nearly 10 percent each to the country’s GDP and provide about 30 percent of all jobs. This partnership could become a strong driver for inclusive, sustainable growth across the Philippines.