MANILA, Philippines — The government is keen on collaborating with Italy to provide opportunities for Filipino fisherfolk, especially for possible employment in the European country’s fishing industry.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. recently met with Italian Minister of Agriculture Francesco Lollobrigida recently to discuss bilateral agricultural relationship between the two countries.
One of the discussions between the ministers was the possibility of having skilled Filipino fisherfolk working in Italy.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) said Lollobrigida extended Italy’s invitation for skilled fishermen to enhance the European country’s fishing industry while providing “valuable” opportunities for Filipino workers.
During the meeting, Tiu Laurel expressed optimism in expanding the country’s agricultural exports to Italy, including tuna, frozen fish, pineapples, carrageenan and desiccated coconut, amid growing demand for these products driven by rising Filipino population in the European country.
Last year, the country shipped $129 million worth of agricultural products to Italy led by coconut oil, according to the DA.
“The growing Filipino community in Italy, now estimated at 200,000, has increased demand for Philippine food products. Small and medium-sized enterprises have formed the Philippine Chamber of Commerce in Italy, promoting Philippine cuisine among Italians,” the DA said yesterday.
The agriculture chief also urged his Italian counterpart to entice Italian businesses to invest in the Philippine agriculture sector, particularly in the field of infrastructure and technology that could help modernize domestic farming practices.
Tiu Laurel pointed out that Italian firms can contribute through smart agriculture technologies and irrigation systems, aligning with the Philippines’ goals of agro-industrialization and climate-resilient agriculture.
“Italy’s agricultural machinery industry is world-class, and the Philippines can greatly benefit from this expertise as we modernize our agricultural sector,” he said.
The two countries also agreed on a draft memorandum of understanding that would boost productivity and agro-industrialization in the Philippines.
Part of the discussions was a potential collaboration between the government and Italy’s national federation of agricultural machinery manufacturers, for the adoption of Italian made machinery in the country’s agriculture sector.
“Our partnership in agriculture reflects the shared vision of our two nations. We look forward to finalizing our agreements and ensuring sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems,” Tiu Laurel said.
The DA noted that the Philippines and Italy have maintained a bilateral relationship for at least 77 years now.