Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. discussed strengthening the convergence between the two economic sectors, reinforcing the Philippines’ identity as a global destination for gastronomy and farm tourism at a meeting held at the Department of Agriculture (DA) Central Office in Quezon City.
Frasco outlined a multi-pillar convergence framework, emphasizing the vital role of agriculture in enhancing tourism experiences.
“Under this administration, we understand that the President’s priorities fall well within our alignment, it being agriculture and also tourism. And therefore, our convergence can very well position the Philippines as a global destination for gastronomy and agricultural tourism, providing enormous benefits to our farmers while also being able to provide unforgettable and enriching visitor experiences,” the tourism chief said.
The proposed convergence framework is anchored on four key pillars: gastronomy tourism development, farm tourism expansion, infrastructure and connectivity, and local supply chain for tourism.
Citing the vital link between agriculture and tourism, with “food being part and parcel of every tourism experience,” she expressed appreciation for the opportunity to strengthen collaboration between the DOT and DA.
“At every touchpoint of tourism, agriculture plays a role.”
“At every touchpoint of tourism, agriculture plays a role—whether the tourist is partaking of our accommodation or resort offerings or a leisurely activity in a destination or shopping during their visit to the Philippines and around the country. Agriculture and the role that you play is ever important, which is why I’m very grateful for the invitation from Secretary Kiko (Francisco Laurel). And I relish the opportunity to have a convergence between our two agencies,” Frasco added.
Other collaborative areas discussed during the meeting included the joint support for the Gastronomy Tourism Roadmap, the Slow Food Movement and upcoming Terra Madre Asia-Pacific in Bacolod, the Farm Tourism Development Board, the promotion of food products and regional dishes, the development of agri-tourism circuits, alignment of efforts with the DOT’s National Accommodation Standards, and the expansion of Halal and Muslim-friendly tourism.
“We’re also hopeful that, by way of this convergence, this can support our President’s vision for the transformation of Philippine tourism from the one-dimensional approach of fun to the multi-dimensional approach of the Filipino identity, culture, heritage, and all the other products that we’re able to offer, including our produce, as well as our farm tourism sites. Overall, we are very optimistic that by way of our partnership, we would be able to further expand opportunities for our local stakeholders and see the Philippines’ ascension as a preferred destination,” she stressed.
Tiu Laurel, on the other hand, emphasized the need for stable and affordable sourcing to support industry stakeholders.
“Ang aim namin—persistent supply of local goods that the industry players need at an affordable price.”
“Iyon talaga ang aim namin—persistent supply of local goods that the industry players need at an affordable price. Lagi ngang sinasabi, ang ganda-ganda ng lugar, tapos ang saya-saya. Pero pagdating ng bill mo sa pagkain, napakataas,” the agriculture chief said.
The DA also proposed the establishment of agri-tourism trading posts in key tourism areas—strategic facilities that will allow local farmers to directly market their products to chefs, hotel suppliers, and tourists, reducing logistical strain and creating value-added experiences in rural communities.
The agriculture head noted that the DA looks forward to receiving from the DOT the list of priority tourism destinations and partner local government units (LGUs), which will guide the deployment of resources and investments.
He expressed enthusiasm over the proposed areas of collaboration, describing them as low-hanging fruits that can be readily implemented with proper coordination.
“Definitely, let’s work on this, and I’m really very excited,” Tiu Laurel concluded.
