The Philippines joined global leaders and innovators at World Food India 2025, taking a significant step in strengthening its agri-food ties and expanding market opportunities.
The event, inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the presence of Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev, and Indian Union Ministers Chirag Paswan, Prataprao Jadhav, and Ravneet Singh, showcased India’s diverse and fast-evolving food processing sector.
Leading the Philippine delegation was Undersecretary Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero, supported by National Organic Agriculture Program Director Bernadette San Juan, PHILFOODEX President Ruben See, and Mayose Bautista.
The Philippines will participate in World Food India 2027, where it aims to spotlight its distinctive agricultural and fisheries exports.
The group held meetings with India’s Ministry of Food Industry and Processing and participated in a series of technical sessions as part of preparations for the Philippines’ participation in World Food India 2027, where it aims to spotlight its distinctive agricultural and fisheries exports.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the initiative aligns with the Department of Agriculture’s “whole-of-nation” approach—anchored on boosting high-value crops and fisheries through production efficiency, innovative technologies, fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, and stronger partnerships with local governments, processors, and logistics providers.
The plan includes building mega food hubs and strategically positioned wholesale food markets to ensure reliable supply chain from the farms, access to premium agri/fisheries products and competitiveness in the global marketplace.
The delegation explored avenues to link Philippine producers—especially women-led and organic enterprises—to India’s extensive food basket and expanding middle-class demand.
In a courtesy call to Philippine Ambassador to India Josel Francisco Ignacio, the delegation explored avenues to link Philippine producers—especially women-led and organic enterprises—to India’s extensive food basket and expanding middle-class demand.
The DA-led team also joined sessions on pet food, nutraceuticals, plant-based foods, alcoholic beverages, and specialty products.
The Philippine National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI) presented best practices on mitigating climate change impacts on food safety and fishermen’s livelihoods—affirming the Philippines’ commitment to a resilient and sustainable food future.
