The Philippines, represented by Undersecretary of the Department of Agriculture’s Rice Industry Development Project Christopher V. Morales, emphasized its strong commitment to sustainable agriculture through the integration of bioeconomy principles. In his speech, Morales outlined the Philippines’ national strategies focused on improving resource efficiency, innovation, and circularity within the agricultural sector. The Philippine Action Plan for Sustainable Consumption and Production and the National Innovation Agenda were presented as key frameworks guiding these efforts.

The Philippines’ approach aligns with the GFFA's overarching theme of balancing food security with environmental sustainability. Morales highlighted how these bioeconomy principles help reduce waste, increase resource efficiency, and foster innovation. These efforts are aimed at making the agricultural sector more resilient to climate change, ensuring long-term food security, and contributing to sustainable economic growth. By adopting these frameworks, the Philippines envisions a thriving agricultural economy that meets the needs of its people while addressing global environmental challenges.

A particularly significant moment in the Philippines’ involvement at the GFFA was the keynote address by Mayor Rommel Arnado of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte. Mayor Arnado shared the success story of the From Arms to Farms Foundation, a peacebuilding initiative that used agriculture as a tool to transform Kauswagan from a conflict-affected area into a food-secure, zero-hunger community. The program, which focuses on turning former combatants into farmers, has not only provided a sustainable food source but has also helped foster social cohesion and peace in a region that was once torn by conflict. This story exemplifies how agriculture can be a powerful tool for peacebuilding and development, especially in post-conflict areas.

Following the keynote, a panel discussion titled "Sowing Peace: Entry-Points Through Food and Climate Security" featured experts from Germany, Norway, and various international organizations. The panelists discussed the interconnectedness of food security, climate change, and peacebuilding, emphasizing how sustainable agriculture practices can simultaneously address these global challenges. The discussions highlighted the critical role of international cooperation and innovative agricultural solutions in achieving global food security and environmental sustainability.

The Philippines’ participation in the GFFA reinforces its commitment to sustainable agriculture as both an economic driver and a tool for peacebuilding. The integration of bioeconomy principles and the success of local initiatives, like the From Arms to Farms Foundation, demonstrate the potential of agriculture to foster long-term development, resilience, and peace. The Philippines’ engagement in the GFFA is a step toward ensuring a sustainable future for its agricultural sector, contributing valuable lessons to the international dialogue on food security and sustainability.

• - https://philippine-embassy.de/2025/01/28/isbn-pr-002-2025-philippines-emphasizes-commitment-to-sustainable-agriculture-and-agriculture-as-a-tool-for-peacebuilding/