News Details

DA delivers new farm, fishery support in Zambales; P35-M cold storage facility set for 2026

NPO

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October 9, 2025

CASTILLEJOS, Zambales – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has rolled out a comprehensive package of support for farmers and fisherfolk in Zambales, highlighted by the planned construction of a ₱35-million modular cold storage facility for high-value crops, set to be completed by early 2026.

Leading the turnover ceremony on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. personally handed over farm machinery, seeds, livestock, and other agricultural inputs designed to improve productivity and income in the province.

“We are here not just to visit, but to bring the direct support of the government,” Laurel said. “The President is aware of this visit and has instructed me to deliver his message of commitment to our farmers and fisherfolk.”

Among the distributed farm inputs were hybrid seeds, multi-cultivators, hand tractors, four-wheel-drive tractors, and shallow tube wells to enhance local irrigation systems.

To further support sustainable farming, the DA also deployed a Mobile Soil Laboratory (MSL) to help farmers analyze soil quality and determine proper fertilizer application—aimed at reducing input costs and increasing yields.

Livestock growers received goats, cattle, housing modules, and disinfectants, while fisherfolk were given a 62-foot fishing vessel, with five more boats to follow. The beneficiaries also received tilapia and catfish fingerlings to help expand aquaculture production.

In partnership with Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun, Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., and other local officials, the DA announced plans to distribute 150 greenhouse units equipped with drip irrigation systems to support the cultivation of high-value crops such as bell pepper, ginger, tomato, and carrots. These crops are expected to supply major markets in Clark (Pampanga), Subic (Zambales), and Metro Manila.

The upcoming ₱35-million cold storage facility is expected to significantly reduce post-harvest losses, improve crop preservation, and boost farmers’ earnings by maintaining product quality for extended periods.

“Zambales is a vital pillar of our agriculture sector,” Laurel said. “Through these projects, we aim to enhance productivity, raise income, and strengthen the resilience of your livelihoods.”

NPO News Team | DA-PR