DA, DOT boost food and farm tourism

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) have joined forces to promote food and farm tourism, a joint initiative aimed at attracting more foreign visitors, encouraging domestic travel, revitalizing rural economies, and generating jobs in the countryside.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco outlined four main pillars of the partnership: gastronomy tourism development, farm tourism expansion, infrastructure and connectivity improvements, and the strengthening of local supply chains.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. expressed strong support for the DOT’s convergence strategy, describing it as an opportunity for impactful, short-term gains.

“This proposal of the Department of Tourism is exactly what we’ve been looking for—low-hanging fruits and quick wins,” said Tiu Laurel.

He emphasized that funding is available for a wide range of projects, including organic farming, livestock production, mariculture, aquaculture, and essential infrastructure such as farm-to-market roads, cold storage facilities, ice plants, and greenhouses.

To translate this vision into concrete action, the two agencies are forming a technical working group tasked with drafting a detailed roadmap within six months.

The initial focus will be on pilot areas such as Bohol, Iloilo, and Benguet—regions known for their rich culinary heritage, cultural significance, and agricultural productivity.

The DA has also committed to supporting the initiative through the provision of agricultural infrastructure, including food processing centers, cold storage units, ice plants, seeds, greenhouses, livestock resources, and aquaculture materials. These are intended to ensure a steady and affordable supply of local produce for hotels, restaurants, and tourist destinations.

Tiu Laurel highlighted the importance of stable and cost-effective sourcing to sustain the tourism sector.

“Despite the beauty of many tourist destinations, the high cost of food remains a concern,” he noted.

To further address this, the DA has proposed the creation of agri-tourism trading posts in key tourism hubs. These facilities would enable local farmers to directly market their products to chefs, hotel suppliers, and tourists—reducing logistical challenges while creating value-added experiences in rural communities.

The DA is currently awaiting the DOT’s list of priority tourism destinations and partner local government units (LGUs) to guide the targeted deployment of resources and investments.

Both agencies are optimistic that this partnership will significantly contribute to economic growth, job creation, and sustainable rural development.

This collaborative effort is expected to elevate the Philippines as a premier destination for farm-based and culinary tourism, delivering lasting benefits to local communities and the national economy. — (FREEMAN)