The Department of Agriculture (DA) has ordered an immediate freeze on new applications for agricultural land reclassification as it moves to strengthen the country’s food security strategy and curb the rapid conversion of farmland.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Department Circular No. 1 on 5 January, imposing a moratorium on the acceptance and processing of Land-Use Reclassification Certification applications until June 2026. 

“There is a need to impose a moratorium on the acceptance and processing of applications for Land-Use Reclassification Certification, and to revisit and review the policies to strengthen DA oversight, ensure consistency, and protect agricultural lands from undue conversion,” Tiu Laurel said.

The DA said the pause will allow the agency to review its policies and tighten oversight amid growing pressure from urban expansion and infrastructure development. Applications filed before the issuance of the circular will continue to be processed, while appeals will be suspended until the moratorium is lifted.

The move comes as concerns mount over the steady loss of productive farmland, which analysts warn could undermine the country’s ability to produce key staples such as rice and corn and increase reliance on imports. With food demand rising and global supply chains exposed to shocks, the DA views farmland preservation as a key buffer against volatility and price spikes.

Agricultural groups have long called for stricter controls on land conversion, particularly for irrigated and irrigable lands. Several lawmakers are also pushing for legislation that would impose tighter limits on the reclassification of agricultural areas.

The moratorium aligns with the DA’s broader agenda for 2026, which includes strengthening supply chains, improving farm infrastructure, and expanding productivity support programs. The agency said improved monitoring and clearer regulatory standards will be needed to ensure that land protection translates into sustained gains in food production.

For now, the DA said the freeze sends a strong signal that safeguarding agricultural land is a central pillar of the government’s food security policy, as it reassesses the balance between development and long-term agricultural sustainability.