By Kenneth Marcos 
In a move to ensure safer food for every Filipino, three agencies under the Department of Agriculture (DA) have come together to create a unified system for monitoring pesticide residues in crops.
From October 6 to 8, 2025, the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (DA-BAFS) joined forces with the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (DA-FPA) and the Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) in a three-day workshop held at Novotel Hotel in Quezon City. The goal: to develop a harmonized framework for establishing Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) of pesticides used in Philippine agriculture.
MRLs are the highest levels of pesticide residue legally allowed in food. Setting these limits correctly helps protect consumers’ health, ensure food safety, and make local produce more competitive in global markets.
Protecting consumers through science-based rules
This initiative is part of a larger partnership between the Philippines and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI). The effort focuses on improving how government agencies work together when it comes to setting, implementing, and monitoring pesticide safety standards.
Experts and consultants were present during the sessions to provide technical advice and help align the Philippines’ standards with international practices.
DA-BAFS representatives Kristel Alarice Aborido and Katrina Maniling played key roles during the workshop, sharing insights to identify what processes work well, where overlaps exist, and how systems can be improved.
Why this matters to farmers and families
In recent years, food safety has become a growing concern, especially with increasing reports of harmful pesticide residues found in some fruits and vegetables. By developing a unified, science-based approach to MRLs, the DA is not only protecting consumers but also helping Filipino farmers meet stricter standards in both local and export markets.
A consistent and clear policy on MRLs means less confusion for farmers, more efficient enforcement by regulatory agencies, and higher chances of acceptance in international trade.
Next steps for a safer food system
Once finalized, the unified MRL framework will serve as a guideline for all stakeholders—from regulators and farmers to exporters and food processors. It will help create a more transparent system and reduce the risks linked to unsafe pesticide use.
With the DA pushing for Masaganang Agrikultura and a Maunlad na Ekonomiya, building trust in the safety of Philippine-grown food is essential.
This collaboration between DA-BAFS, FPA, and BPI is a major step toward that goal—ensuring that every plate on every Filipino table is not only full but also safe.
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