Ian Paolo Villacencio

The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) have launched a joint initiative to transform farms into tourism destinations, aiming to boost rural livelihoods and attract local and international travelers.


The partnership aims to attract more foreign visitors, boost domestic travel, and support the government’s push of revitalizing rural economies and generating countryside jobs.

In a statement on May 24, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. welcomed the collaboration, calling it a “quick win” that aligns with the DA’s development goals.

“This proposal of the DOT is exactly what we’ve been looking for—low-hanging fruits and quick wins,” he said.

Laurel noted that funding is already available for initiatives such as organic farming, livestock production, mariculture, and aquaculture.

He also emphasized support for infrastructure projects, including farm-to-market roads, cold storage facilities, ice plants, and greenhouses.

“We even have a budget for rehabilitating the Banaue Rice Terraces. Just let us know where help is needed so we can restore their beauty and welcome more tourists,” he added.

Meanwhile, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco outlined four pillars of the collaboration: gastronomy tourism, farm tourism expansion, infrastructure and connectivity improvements, and strengthening local supply chains.

To bring these plans to life, the DA and DOT have formed a technical working group tasked with developing a detailed roadmap and will focus on pilot provinces—Bohol, Iloilo, and Benguet—chosen for their rich culinary heritage, cultural attractions, and agricultural productivity, within six months.

The said initiative will also focus on strategies for market rollout, improved farm-to-market access, and the development of complementary infrastructure.