Philippines’ Farm and Fisheries Output Drops 3.7% in Q3 Amid Adverse Weather and ASF Impact

The Philippines saw a 3.7% year-on-year decline in farm and fisheries production for the third quarter, totaling PHP 397.43 billion, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA). This decrease is attributed to severe weather and the ongoing impact of African Swine Fever (ASF) on hog production.

Palay production, a significant part of crop output, fell by 12.3%, leading to an overall 5.1% drop in crop sector output, valued at PHP 211.62 billion. Crops comprised 53% of the sector’s total production, while livestock, which declined by 6.7% to PHP 61.67 billion, contributed 16%.

The fisheries sector also faced a 5.5% decrease in production value, down to PHP 55.48 billion.

To address these challenges, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. highlighted initiatives like adjusting the rice cropping calendar and constructing water impounding dams to counter climate effects on agriculture. Despite setbacks, some areas saw growth, with corn production up 1.3% and poultry output increasing by 5.8% to PHP 68.66 billion.

The DA is also working on developing an African Swine Fever vaccine, in collaboration with the Bureau of Animal Industry and the FDA, to support the struggling hog industry.