Cayetano says Laurel’s appointment as DA chief ‘timely’

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano on Saturday said the appointment of fishing magnate Francisco Laurel Jr. as the new Agriculture secretary is “timely” amid a wide range of problems the sector is facing.

“The appointment of Francisco Laurel Jr. as Agriculture Secretary… comes at a critical time for the country as the agriculture industry faces pressing challenges, including persistent productivity issues and rising prices,” Cayetano said in a statement released on Saturday.

He noted that these challenges pose a serious threat to the country’s food security.

Cayetano said he looks forward to hearing Laurel’s plans for the Department of Agriculture (DA) as the Senate resumes its deliberation for the 2024 National Budget next week.

“[His appointment] coincides with the budget hearings in the Senate, presenting an opportunity for Secretary Laurel to articulate his vision for the DA and the agriculture sector as a whole,” the senator said.

The announcement of the new DA chief came on Friday, with Laurel being selected by the President to lead the DA due to his track record and connections with the private sector and industry experts.

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Laurel is president of Frabelle Fishing Corporation, a family-run company. He is also president of Agusan Power Corporation and is chairman of the World Tuna Purse Seine Organization.

Cayetano said he looks forward to the positive impact of Laurel’s leadership in revitalizing this crucial sector for our nation’s prosperity.

“Through God’s grace, our nation expects the new Secretary to use his experience and business acumen to develop a strategic roadmap that will drive innovation, enhance productivity, and create a more resilient and competitive agricultural landscape for the benefit of our farmers and our people,” he said.