DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTUREBUREAU OF AGRICULTURAL AND FISHERIES ENGINEERING9th Floor, Two Cyberpod Centris, EDSA cor., Quezon Avenue, Brgy. Pinyahan , Quezon City | +639566553434/+639284301651
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTUREBUREAU OF AGRICULTURAL AND FISHERIES ENGINEERING9th Floor, Two Cyberpod Centris, EDSA cor., Quezon Avenue, Brgy. Pinyahan , Quezon City | +639566553434/+639284301651
On April 27, 2026, Engr. Cristy Cecilia P. Polido, Director of the Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering (BAFE), moderated the Second Panel Discussion under Session 1 – Examining the Enabling Environment: Research and Policies that Enhance Investments in the Agriculture and Fisheries Sector. The session was held during the National Investment Dialogue and Round Table Discussion on the Agrifood System Research, Policies, and Modernization trends in the Philippines: Towards Improving Investment Opportunities.
The session focused on Sustainable Agricultural Mechanization (SAM), highlighting the Philippine Department of Agriculture Hand-in-Hand initiatives in terms of mechanization across the agri-food value chain that are crucial for navigating global disruptions, particularly the oil crisis linked to the Middle East conflict.
Mr. Bo Zhou of the FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific emphasized that SAM—using tools and machinery in agri-food value chains—enhances productivity while being context-specific, stating, “Mechanization is not ‘one size fits all.’” Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa highlighted that farm mechanization is vital for food security and resilience during geopolitical uncertainties. Engr. Raymond Andres of PhilMech stressed the necessity of collaboration between government and industry to stabilize the agricultural value chain.
The panel included focused discussions and an open forum for direct participant engagement. Key modernization strategies discussed included drone technology for precision agriculture and sustainable mechanization initiatives that ensure equitable access and support for farmers.
Stakeholders noted the need for mechanization efforts to encompass diverse commodities beyond rice including other commodities and highlighted alternative energy integration for sustainable farming. Government strategies to reduce post-harvest losses were also emphasized for improving farmer incomes and food availability.
China’s rise in mechanization was mentioned as a benchmark, showcasing how coherent policies drive agricultural progress. The forum reinforced the importance of adapting these lessons to local contexts while being inclusive of smallholder farmers, women, and youth.
The forum effectively integrated policy, innovation, and investment narratives, equipping stakeholders with a clearer understanding of challenges and opportunities.
This event reaffirmed a commitment to building a modern, inclusive, climate-resilient Philippine agriculture sector capable of withstanding global disruptions through strategic partnerships and sustained investments.
