Agri chief lays down support for PH cold chain logistics

Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. reaffirmed the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) commitment to strengthening the country’s cold chain logistics sector in his keynote address during the 23rd Annual General Membership Meeting and Training Conference of the Cold Chain Association of the Philippines (CCAP) on June 19, 2025 in Malay, Aklan.

With the theme “Cold Chain Logistics: Keystone to Agribusiness Development,” the event was attended by stakeholders from both the government and private industry to align efforts in advancing food logistics infrastructure nationwide.

The agri chief said that cold chain logistics is no longer a mere support system but a foundational element in transforming Philippine agriculture. “It minimizes post-harvest losses, raises farmers’ and fisherfolk’s incomes, and ensures that Filipino families have access to safe and high-quality food.

He also lauded the CCAP for its leadership and continued investments in the cold chain ecosystem.

As part of the DA’s modernization thrust under the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997, the department is deploying 96 modular cold storage units this 2025 and constructing four mega cold storage warehouses in strategic areas—Taguig City, San Jose in Mindoro, Pili in Camarines Sur, and Nueva Ecija. With storage capacities ranging from 1,700 to 8,000 pallet positions, these warehouses will serve major agricultural production and distribution hubs.

To oversee the effective implementation of cold storage facilities, the DA established the Agriculture and Fisheries Logistics Office.

Moreover, the DA is also rolling out other important infrastructure components, including refrigerated vans, tramlines, dryers, packaging equipment, and ice plants, to create a more holistic and sustainable cold chains logistics ecosystems.

He underscored the government’s strategy to spur private sector investment by situating public cold storage facilities in key areas. “Once these storage are full, the expansion will be yours,” he told industry participants.

Secretary Laurel also acknowledged that while cold storage infrastructure is necessary, the government’s long-term priorities are focused on establishing food hubs and agri-fishery ports to boost regional aggregation, streamline distribution, and expand market access.

To further support these initiatives, Laurel added that the DA has proposed a Php 3 billion interest subsidy program to the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), formerly NEDA. The fund will provide a 5- to 7-year interest subsidy for private investments in post-harvest facilities, including cold storage facilities.

Secretary Laurel called for continued collaboration between the government and the private sector to achieve shared goals of food sufficiency, rural development, and national resilience.### Text by Sheila Mae Toreno/ Photos by Khrysma Dei Caldina/DA-RAFIS 6