Despite problems brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, Philippine agricultural production managed to grow by 0.5% in the 2nd quarter of 2020, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Agriculture managed to grow from a 1.4% contraction in the 1st quarter, as it registered higher production of crops and fisheries.

From January to June, agricultural production declined by 0.6%.

Crops posted a 5% growth in production in the 2nd quarter, comprising 53.7% of the total agricultural output. Palay production went up by 7.1%, while corn grew by 15.4%.

Fisheries grew by 0.9%, comprising 16% of the total output. 

However, livestock production, which accounted for 17.3% of the total agricultural output, contracted by 8.5%. Hog production dropped by 5.2%.

Poultry production decreased by 4.7%, as chicken production fell by 7.8%.

At current prices, the value of agricultural production amounted to P439.8 billion, 4.6% higher than last year.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar is aiming to raise the Philippines’ output to at least 1.5%, lower than his initial growth target of 2%.

“Can we still achieve a growth of 2% for this year? I always say that by the mercy of God and with the continuous hard work of farmers, fishermen, and businessmen in the agriculture sector, we will almost be there,” Dar said in his State of Philippine Agriculture Address on Wednesday.

“But with the pandemic, it will be hard. So my answer is we hope that we can still reach at least 1.5%.” – Rappler.com