DA: Farmers received 72 tons of vegetable seeds from BPI in 2023

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) said on Thursday that the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) gave more than 72 tons of vegetable seeds to farmers in 2023.

According to DA Secretary Francisco Laurel Jr. at the 94th founding anniversary of the BPI, the agency has made significant steps in the agricultural achievements of the Philippines.

READ: DA’s first El Niño bulletin for 2024 shows P700K agri losses

“For nearly a century, BPI has been at the forefront of agricultural innovation, stewardship, and progress in our nation. We are here to celebrate not just the longevity of this institution but also the milestones, advancements, and commitment it has shown towards the modernization of agricultural practices in our country,” said Secretary Tiu Laurel.

The bureau also managed to give around 82,470 pieces of planting materials, the DA added.

“It also certified over 5.8 million bags of rice, corn, and field legumes that helped increase farm yield by as much as 30 percent,” the DA said.

The department also said that the country recorded increases in avocado, mango, and durian exports compared to 2022.

Furthermore, over 400,000 clearances were issued by BPI for domestic transport to prevent the spread of pests in the country.

“BPI also issued in 2023 nearly 80,000 import clearances, with 84 percent issued within 24 hours. It also issued over 83,000 phytosanitary certificates compliant with the requirements of the Philippines’ international trading partners,” the DA said.

READ: DA suspends onion importation, says supply enough to meet demand