DA Chief Vows to Regulate Onion Imports Amid Farmers’ Concerns

Manila, Philippines – Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. assured local farmers that the government will carefully manage onion imports to prevent market disruptions while addressing a 7,000-ton supply deficit this February.

“Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. But I’m here to manage. I’m not a farmer, I’m not an importer, I’m the DA Secretary, and I’m here to manage the situation,” Laurel stated in a Palace press briefing.

He emphasized that importation is a tactical move, with strict limits on volume and timing to ensure minimal impact on local farmers, adding that imported onions would arrive before peak harvest.

However, Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) Executive Director Jayson Cainglet argued that now is not the right time for imports. Some farmers have begun harvesting early, fearing a drop in farm gate prices once imported onions enter the market.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) remains firm that its priority is balancing supply while supporting local producers.