BAGUIO CITY — The agriculture sector demonstrated growth and resilience in 2025 despite facing climate and market challenges, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Cordillera claimed.

Data shows the sector expanded by 4.3 percent from 2024 to 2025, contributing 0.32 percentage points to total regional economic growth. Agriculture ranked sixth among all sectors in terms of economic contribution, trailing behind wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing, and education.

DA Cordillera's Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Division Chief Susan Balanza stated that the agriculture and fisheries sectors maintained steady development.

The progress occurred despite fluctuating weather patterns, rising production costs, and shifting market demands. The region remains a primary contributor to national food security, providing approximately 70 to 80 percent of the country’s temperate vegetable supply. These crops are largely sourced from Benguet, Mountain Province, and Ifugao, while Kalinga, Apayao, and Abra serve as hubs for rice and corn production.

Several factors contributed to this growth, including the expansion of high-value crops and improvements in aquaculture and inland fish production. Government interventions also played a role through the distribution of certified seeds, farm equipment, and training sessions focused on climate-resilient farming techniques.

However, the sector continues to face obstacles such as unpredictable weather, pests, crop diseases, and increasing prices of fertilizer and fuel. The Department of Agriculture confirmed it will continue programs designed to strengthen the industry.

According to the agency, future initiatives will focus on climate-smart agriculture, improved market access, and the expansion of regional infrastructure and logistics to support local farmers.