May 15, 2025 | Quezon City – The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA), led by Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada, will be celebrating its 48th anniversary on May 30, with the theme: “Smarter Regulations, Nurturing Innovation.” 

The theme captures the agency’s ongoing efforts to modernize its regulatory framework, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and embrace new technologies in support of Philippine agriculture.

Dir. Estrada emphasized that the FPA, established under Presidential Decree 1144, continues to play a vital role in ensuring access to safe and effective fertilizers and pesticides while protecting public health and the environment. “Through digitalization, evidence-based policies, and collaborative efforts, we are responding to the dynamic needs of the agricultural sector,” he said.

The FPA detailed how it is leveraging its mandate—which includes licensing, quality assurance, import control, stewardship, and public information—not merely as regulatory duties but as platforms for encouraging innovation. The agency cited the integration of precision farming practices such as drone-assisted spraying of fertilizers and pesticides as a key example.

Two ongoing projects were spotlighted: the Composting Facility for Biodegradable Wastes Program – supports LGUs in waste-to-compost initiatives through provision of composting facilities. On the other hand, the Drones4Rice Program — promotes the use of drones in agriculture through the development of protocols, standards, and monitoring systems.

As part of its long-term strategy, Dir. Estrada, who recently took office as head of FPA in April 2025, presented his Ten Strategic Initiatives that will guide FPA’s future actions. 

One major institutional goal is to amend Presidential Decree 1144 by advocating for a Republic Act that would expand FPA’s authority to include research, development, and extension services that will enable the agency to adapt to modern agricultural needs.

FPA announced key projects and activities for 2025, such as the enhancement of drone application policies, further digitalization of licensing and accreditation processes, intensified first-border inspections, and continued updates to the Fertilizer and Pesticide Regulatory Policies (Bluebook and Greenbook). Public engagement efforts such as regional information caravans will also be expanded, particularly in Regions 8, 4, 5, 2, Caraga, 11, 9, and 10.

“We reaffirm our commitment to serve as a partner in nation-building,” said Dir. Estrada. “By combining smarter regulations with responsible innovation, the FPA remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard agricultural productivity and sustainability.” ###

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team