The FPA will be celebrating its 48th Anniversary on 30 May 2025, with the theme: “Smarter Regulations, Nurturing Innovation.
Philippines Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) outlined how it uses its mandate – which includes licensing, quality assurance, import control, stewardship, and public information – as a platform to encourage innovation rather than simply fulfilling regulatory responsibilities. The agency cited the integration of precision farming practices such as drone-assisted spraying of fertilizers and pesticides as a key example.
Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada explained 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.
“Through digitalization, evidence-based policies, and collaborative efforts, we are responding to the dynamic needs of the agricultural sector,” he said.
Two ongoing projects were spotlighted:
- The Composting Facility for Biodegradable Wastes Program – supports LGUs in waste-to-compost initiatives through provision of composting facilities.
- 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.
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.
Dir. Estrada itterates “By combining smarter regulations with responsible innovation, the FPA remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard agricultural productivity and sustainability”
