DA supports agri-modernization, inter-sectoral collaboration at Livestock and Aquaculture Philippines 2026

Author: DA-AFID | 30 June 2026

The Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) reaffirmed its commitment to advancing agricultural modernization, innovations, mulit-sectoral collaboration during the Livestock and Aquaculture Philippines 2026 marking its ninth consecutive year of partnership with international trade events organizer, Informa Markets.

Held from June 24 to 26 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City, the three-day expo continues to serve as a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and business opportunities among stakeholders in the livestock, poultry, aquaculture, meat, and feeds industries. The event aims to help industry players address challenges, adopt innovative solutions, and contribute to the country's food security and sustainability goals.

This year's theme, "Modern Farming Practices, Bountiful Harvests: The Future of Livestock and Aquaculture," emphasized the importance of increasing agricultural productivity and profitability through modern technologies and innovative farming practices.

Rungphech Chitanuwat, Country General Manager of Informa Markets in the Philippines, highlighted the need for a more sustainable approach to agri-fishery production.

"The livestock, poultry, and aquaculture industries in the Philippines are experiencing unpredictable, broad transformation as our population grows and global demand for quality protein intensifies. These sectors stand at the forefront of national development. We are looking for food security, food safety, and also for the health of our population to be the major focus of the agriculture sector," she explained.

DA Assistant Secretary for Swine and Poultry Dr. Michael J. Garcia professed the Department's support for initiatives such as the Livestock and Aquaculture Philippines that promote a stronger and more resilient livestock industry.

"Through events such as this, we are able to share innovations, explore emerging technologies, strengthen partnerships, and develop practical solutions that respond to the needs of our livestock industry. I assure you of the Department of Agriculture's continued support for programs that strengthen animal health services, improve biosecurity systems, support industry recovery efforts, enhance productivity, and expand opportunities for our livestock stakeholders," Asec. Garcia added.

In a video message, DA Undersecretary for Livestock Dr. Constante J. Palabrica supported the expo's mission which is aligned with the Department's mission of empowering the agriculture sector, but also "reflects President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s Bagong Pilipinas vision, which calls for unity among all sectors in achieving meaningful social and economic progress."

"Our enduring partnership with Informa Markets demonstrates how collective efforts can create opportunities for learning, networking, collaboration, and growth," Usec. Palabrica added.

On behalf of the DA fisheries offices, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) National Capital Region Director Dr. Noemi SB. Lanzuela and National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI) Executive Director Dr. Maria Theresa M. Mutia also expressed their commitment to responsible aquaculture development and transformation.

As part of its commitment to the partnership, several DA Family agencies participated as exhibitors during the three-day expo.

Under the Livestock Philippines' DA Pavilion were 11 agencies that took part in information and advocacy dissemination, namely: the National Livestock Program, Bureau of Animal Industry, National Dairy Authority, National Meat Inspection Service, Philippine Carabao Center, Agricultural Training Institute, International Training Center on Pig Husbandry, Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries, Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards, Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization, and Halal Food Industry Development Program.

The DA-Bureau of Plant Industry in coordination with the Department's Agriculture and Fisheries Information Division, also showed support by showcasing and distributing vegetable seeds and herb planting materials in the DA Pavilion.

Meanwhile, the DA-BFAR and NFDRI also set up their respective booths at the Aquaculture Pavilion to also bring their services closer to the public.

Experts from the DA Family agencies, also joined various technical conferences and seminars, discussing topics such as animal health and welfare, access to financing, environmental sustainability, processing, and research findings, to name a few.

The Department also partnered with Informa Markets in organizing the Livestock Philippines Recognition, which honors remarkable farmers, groups, and agripreneurs who have contributed to the development of the Philippine livestock and poultry sectors. ### (Krystelle Ymari A. Vergara, DA-AFID)