The Department of Agriculture (DA) said it is confident of a solid performance by the agricultural sector in the second quarter, noting the strong prices realized by farmers for palay (unmilled rice). In a report by BusinessWorld, DA spokesman Arnel V. De Mesa cited initial reports from the Philippine Statistics Authority as basis for the optimistic outlook.
De Mesa, who also serves as assistant secretary for Special Concerns and Official Development, highlighted that favorable farm-gate prices for palay have encouraged continued planting and harvesting activities. The positive sentiment comes despite challenges such as weather disruptions and input cost fluctuations, which the DA is addressing through various support programs.
Industry analysts note that sustained growth in agricultural output is crucial for food security and inflation management in the Philippines. The DA's confidence in Q2 performance aligns with government efforts to boost local rice production and reduce dependence on imports.