Philippines to strengthen ties with Belgium

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is strengthening its ties with Belgium via higher volume of agricultural exports and exploring new areas of collaboration, the chief of the Department of Agriculture (DA) said.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar met Belgian Ambassador Michael Goffin last Feb. 13.

“With Belgium as one of the important export destinations for Philippine agricultural products in Europe, Dar hopes to continue a strong relationship with the country by increasing the volume of exports and pursuing new areas of collaboration,” the DA said in a statement.

Apart from the existing agreement with Israel’s LR Group, Dar said the DA still needs more investments in Solar Powered Irrigation Systems (SPIS), since two million hectares of farmland still need to be irrigated.

In response to this, Goffin proposed opportunities in the form of grants, loans, and business ventures for the collaboration on SPIS.

Dar ordered the Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering (BAFE) director Ariodear Rico to oversee the technical aspect of the project.

He also directed the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) to participate in the project.

“We have set new paradigms to elevate Philippine agriculture, not only to improve productivity, but also to broaden our horizons into inclusive agribusiness,” Dar said.

During the meeting, Dar mentioned the need for the improvement of agricultural logistics system in upland areas, cold chain systems, product packaging, product grading and food safety, and market information system.

“After the discussion, both sides agreed to pursue cooperation to support the livestock development program of the Philippines, especially for the improvement of cattle stocks in the country through cross-breeding,” the DA said.

Goffin also mentioned that Belgium seeks to lift the temporary ban on the importation of pigs and pork products from the said country issued by the Philippines in 2018, as well as the accreditation of Belgian fruits.

Agriculture assistant secretary for livestock William Medrano said they would review the report submitted by Belgium.

“We do not want to impede the trade but food security is still our priority,” Dar said.

Moreover, the DA said a group of companies from Belgium is scheduled to visit the Philippines later this year to help local farmers improve cacao production in terms of volume and improving the quality.