By TED CORDERO, GMA News

The Philippines’ agriculture sector saw a slight drop in output in the first quarter of 2026, mainly due to lower rice production, according to the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

The value of production in the agriculture and fisheries sector stood at P437.522 billion, down 0.3% from P438.648 billion a year earlier.

Crop production, which accounted for nearly 56% of total agricultural output, fell by 2.4% to P243.62 billion, the PSA said.

This was largely due to a drop in palay output, which declined by 6.26% to 4.4 million metric tons, reflecting the impact of weather disruptions in late 2025 and damaged irrigation systems.

In a statement, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel said the first-quarter weakness reflected “temporary disruptions rather than a structural decline.”

He noted that softer farmgate prices prior to the government’s temporary rice import restrictions from September to December also discouraged planting.

He added that continued government support and quick action can help the sector recover while dealing with new challenges.

The Agriculture chief, however, expressed optimism about a rebound in the second quarter, citing improving rice output and steady gains in livestock and poultry.

“We are seeing encouraging signs on the ground, with rice production likely recovering in the second quarter as planting conditions normalize, palay prices improve, and government interventions take effect,” Tiu Laurel said.

“At the same time, the continued strength of our livestock and poultry sectors is helping cushion overall output and providing stability to food supply,” he added.

Fisheries output likewise declined, with its value dropping by 6.1% to P52.34 billion, accounting for about 12% of the total agriculture and fisheries output, amid persistent structural and environmental challenges.

Despite the downturn in crops and fisheries, the livestock and poultry subsectors posted growth.

Livestock output rose 5.1% to P60.74 billion, with hog production up 6.4%, while poultry expanded 7.1% to P80.83 billion, supported by steady demand for affordable protein.

Agriculture contributes roughly 9% to the country’s gross domestic product and provides jobs for about one in five Filipinos.

“While we expect a stronger second quarter, the impact of higher oil prices on transport and inputs—particularly fertilizer—as well as the potential effects of an El Niño-induced drought could weigh on production in the second half,” Tiu Laurel said.

He added that the outlook points to a gradual rebound, though restoring crop output—particularly rice—will be key to stabilizing both farm incomes and consumer prices.—MCG, GMA News

Published Date: May 6, 2026