The Department of Agriculture (DA) has ordered a broader investigation into alleged irregularities in the procurement and distribution of farm inputs and machinery, following complaints from farmers’ groups.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the inquiry will go beyond the earlier internal review, which had found no irregularities. The expanded probe aims to ensure public funds are used properly and to address stakeholders’ concerns.

“We invite these farmers’ groups and other organizations to help us ferret out the corrupt within our midst,” Laurel said.

With the increased agriculture budget under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., he stressed that funds must directly benefit farmers and food producers.

“We cannot allow these taxpayer funds to be squandered,” he added.

The secretary also directed the DA’s legal team to look into reported delays in fertilizer deliveries. Suppliers who fail to meet their obligations may face penalties or blacklisting, especially with the planting season looming.

The investigation also focuses attention on the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), which manages mechanization funds under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund. Funding for the program is set to increase following amendments to the Rice Tariffication Act.

PhilMech denied allegations of irregularities, saying its procurements follow competitive public bidding and government auditing rules.

The expanded probe signals tighter oversight of agricultural spending as the DA seeks to strengthen accountability and rebuild the trust of farmers.