Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said Saturday the Department of Agriculture (DA) is ramping up efforts to modernize and protect the country’s livestock, feed mill, and gamefowl industries — key components of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision for food security and rural development.

“Amid climate change, supply disruptions, and growing global competition, building a stronger and more resilient agriculture sector is urgent,” Laurel said.

He cited the DA’s INSPIRE program, expanded livestock insurance, and stricter disease control for African swine fever and avian influenza as critical steps toward modernization. But he emphasized that government efforts alone won’t be enough.

“We need your partnership,” Laurel told industry stakeholders.

He underscored the role of feed millers in supporting animal health, creating rural jobs, and providing stable markets for crops like corn.

“We back innovation in local feed ingredients and sustainable production to help address rising costs and supply bottlenecks,” he said.

Laurel also acknowledged the gamefowl industry’s role in rural economies and cultural heritage, saying the government is ready to help breeders professionalize and adopt science-based animal care.

The livestock and poultry sectors contributed around ₱790 billion to the economy last year — about 3 percent of the country’s GDP.

He lauded Batangas as a livestock and feed production hub, crediting the province’s resilient communities for driving agricultural progress.

“Batangas isn’t just about infrastructure — it’s the hardworking people who push agriculture forward,” he said.

Laurel urged industry players to invest in research, empower farmers, and lead innovation. “Let this congress be a platform for collaboration, innovation, and action,” he said.