Philippines Department of Agriculture

Introduction: As stipulated in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2011-2016, Chapter 4, Competitive and Sustainable Agriculture and Fisheries Sector, the agriculture and fisheries sector provides food and vital raw materials for the rest of the economy. As the sector grows and modernizes, it releases surplus labor to the industry and services sectors. Rising productivity and efficiency in the sector are critical in maintaining the affordability of food and purchasing power, especially among the poor. The sector's development is therefore vital in achieving inclusive growth and poverty reduction as well as attaining the targets under the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).