May 16, 2025 | Quezon City – In celebration of its 48th founding anniversary, the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) reaffirmed its commitment  to enhance regulatory systems and adopt modern technologies for the benefit of Filipino farmers during a press conference held at the Philippine Information Agency on May 16, 2025.

Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada outlined the agency’s strategic initiatives starting 2025 and the next succeeding years, focusing on the protection of farmers, consumers, and the environment through science-based policies and expanded enforcement capacity. The 10 key components of the agency’s forward strategy include:

• Laboratory Recognition Program – Enhancing the recognition of public and private laboratories conducting fertilizer and pesticide quality testing and analysis to promote access in various locations nationwide.
  
• Border Control, Monitoring, and Enforcement – Strengthening the FPA’s capability to prevent the entry and circulation of unregistered, adulterated, or substandard fertilizers and pesticides.
  
• Training Program, and IEC – Expanding efforts to educate handlers, farmers, and stakeholders on safe and responsible product use through modern learning platforms.
  
• Establishment of Major Island-Wide FPA Facilities – Building full-service FPA facilities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, primarily equipped with laboratory, training, and storage (warehousing) functions.
  
• Strengthening Product Stewardship Program – Promoting responsible handling, application, and disposal of agrochemicals, especially those used with drone technology.
  
• Digitalization of Frontline Services – Automating licensing, registration, and regulatory services to enhance efficiency and transparency.
  
• Research for Regulations – Achieving evidence-based policymaking through various research methods such as post-registration trials, standards development, and regulatory impact assessments.

• Support Program for Fertilizer and Pesticide Evaluators – Enhance the capability of evaluators in scientific assessment, risk analysis, and regulatory compliance.

• Development of Animal Disinfectant Regulatory Framework – Strengthening regulatory framework to ensure the safety, efficacy, and responsible use of disinfectant products used in livestock and veterinary facilities.

• Amendment of PD 1144 – Lobbying the amendment of PD 1144 for the expansion of FPA’s regulatory mandate to research, extension and development to better serve Filipino farmers.  

“In the face of increasing agricultural demands, climate challenges, and technological shifts, the FPA is committed to reforming and modernizing its regulatory services to better serve Filipino farmers and safeguard consumer welfare,” said Director Estrada.

When asked about expired fertilizers upon detection, Dir. Estrada said that these products are subject to strict enforcement protocols. “Once identified, expired products are confiscated and placed under Stop Use, Move and Sale (SUMS) orders pending final decision. These cannot be distributed or used,” he said.

On issues such as underweight products and unlicensed handlers, Dir. Estrada said the FPA is enhancing monitoring at ports of entry, where all fertilizers and pesticides—registered or not—pass through. He noted that the agency has initiated coordination with the Bureau of Customs and the Philippine Ports Authority to intercept substandard and illegal products early on.

Director Estrada also discussed current agency actions, including tighter coordination with port authorities to prevent the entry of illegal products, and reiterated the agency’s support for LGUs in the proper disposal of pesticide containers, in line with Republic Act No. 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.

Looking ahead to 2025, FPA will roll out enhanced drone application guidelines, continue the full automation of licensing and registration platforms, and lead regional caravans promoting safe and responsible fertilizer and pesticide use. ###

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