Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has chosen Francisco Laurel Jr., a prominent figure in the fishing industry, to lead the Department of Agriculture (DA). The announcement came during a press conference at Malacañan Palace on Friday, where the President shared that he had personally conducted the swearing-in of the new DA secretary.
According to Philippines News Agency, Laurel’s comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by the agriculture sector is the primary reason behind his appointment. The President expressed confidence in Laurel’s capability to innovate and to address the sector’s pressing challenges, such as high commodity prices and threats including climate change, African swine fever, and avian influenza.
With a clear directive from the President to control agricultural commodity prices and implement new strategies for improvement, Laurel is set to bring his wealth of experience from the private sector into his new governmental role. Marcos highlighted the strong working relationship he has with Laurel and the broad support Laurel is expected to receive in his efforts from both the government and the private sector.
Laurel, in his response, committed to continuing the reform initiatives spearheaded by Marcos and outlined his intention to modernize the agricultural sector. His primary aim is to ensure an abundant harvest and the availability of affordable, nutritious food for all Filipinos.
The newly appointed secretary is the president of Frabelle Fishing Corp., a significant entity in the fishing industry that has seen exponential growth from its inception in 1966. From a small trawl fishing operation, it has become a leading deep-sea fishing company in the Asia-Pacific. The company’s history includes a notable expansion from two vessels to approximately 150 and recognition as a primary supplier for the Philippines’ canned tuna industry.
Senators have reacted positively to Laurel’s appointment, anticipating that his extensive experience will effectively address the agriculture sector’s difficulties. Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. lauded Laurel’s “hands-on experience,” asserting his competence to revitalize agriculture and achieve food security. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian indicated that Laurel’s business acumen would attract corporate investment in agriculture, particularly in mechanization and scaling operations.
Senator JV Ejercito and Senator Grace Poe also welcomed Laurel’s appointment with optimism and high expectations. Poe emphasized the need for Laurel to prioritize the fight against agricultural smuggling, hoarding, and price fixing, as well as to implement long-term strategies that bolster production and improve farmers’ welfare.
The transition comes after President Marcos, who had been serving as the concurrent DA chief, emphasized the necessity for a full-time secretary to focus on agriculture, allowing him to address other national concerns.