Export-focused agri products highlighted at first PH Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum

AGRI-NEWS | NATIONAL Posted on 2026-04-28 03:50:35

MANILA – Export-oriented agricultural commodities are taking center stage at the inaugural Philippines Hand-in-Hand (HIH) National Investment Forum, according to the Department of Agriculture.

The agency officially opened the forum in Ortigas, Pasig City, bringing together international partners to strengthen investments in the agriculture sector and position the Philippines as a key agribusiness hub in Asia.

In an interview, DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said the event aims to identify gaps and challenges affecting private sector investments, while promoting research, policy development, and modernization initiatives.

He highlighted the country’s strong potential in export commodities such as coconut, mango, coffee, cacao, seaweeds, and jackfruit. The DA is also placing emphasis on emerging sectors like bamboo, as well as the coffee and seaweed industries in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The four-day forum adopts an inclusive approach by showcasing region-specific investment opportunities, particularly in BARMM, aligning projects with local capacities and development priorities.

Earlier, the DA projected at least ₱1 billion worth of investment opportunities to be generated from the 2026 forum, which aims to promote data-driven agricultural modernization and contribute to global efforts in reducing hunger and poverty.

Key international partners participating in the event include the Asian Development Bank and the Food and Agriculture Organization, among others.

FAO Representative Lionel Dabbadie reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting agricultural investment and modernization in the country, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts, clear priorities, and credible investment pipelines to achieve tangible results.

The Philippines has already made significant strides through its participation in the HIH initiative, including bilateral engagements and agreements with countries such as Bangladesh and Papua New Guinea, as well as partnerships with global and regional institutions.

Through the forum, the DA aims to further strengthen international collaboration and transform investment opportunities into sustainable growth and development for the agriculture sector.

NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR

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