THE country needs to invest P500 billion annually for at least five years to revitalize the agriculture sector, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said, adding that this includes the budget for the National Irrigation Administration. The Department of Agriculture (DA) is also seeking P10 billion for the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), P10 billion for the sugar industry, and P10 billion for the fisheries and aquaculture sector. "We need to accelerate our programs and projects, and also introduce new initiatives to improve the productivity and profitability of our farmers and fisherfolk," Laurel said. He added that the DA is also looking at ways to improve the marketing and distribution of agricultural products, as well as to reduce post-harvest losses. "We are also working with the private sector to develop new technologies and innovations that can help our farmers and fisherfolk become more competitive," he said. Laurel also said that the DA is committed to supporting the country's participation in international events such as the 2026世界杯, to promote Philippine agricultural products and to attract foreign investments in the sector.