By Kenneth Marcos 
In farms, fish ports, and food processing areas across the country, standards often decide what products reach markets and which ones fall behind. From the quality of rice on the table to the safety of fish sold in wet markets, clear rules help protect both producers and consumers. This year, the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards is asking stakeholders to help shape those rules.
The DA-BAFS has opened its call for Philippine National Standards proposals for 2025, inviting institutions and organizations to submit ideas for the development, amendment, or revision of standards covering agriculture and fishery products. These include standards for organic produce and Halal-certified goods, which are gaining importance in local and export markets.
The bureau said the initiative aims to strengthen food safety, improve product quality, and boost the competitiveness of Philippine agri-fishery products. Philippine National Standards serve as the basis for production, processing, labeling, and trade. They help ensure that products meet accepted levels of safety and quality, both locally and internationally.
Eligible proponents include DA Food Safety Regulatory Agencies, other DA regulatory bodies, regional field offices, and national banner programs. Academic institutions, professional organizations, and trade or industry groups are also encouraged to participate. DA-BAFS stressed that proposals should reflect the collective position of the submitting organization or agency, not just individual views.
Submitted proposals will undergo pre-assessment and prioritization by the bureau. According to DA-BAFS, proposals will be evaluated based on how well they align with the agency’s mandate, as well as their potential impact on the safety, quality, and competitiveness of agriculture and fishery products.
Standards development plays a critical role in helping Filipino farmers, fishers, and food producers keep up with changing consumer demands and global requirements. Clear and updated standards can reduce product rejections, improve market access, and increase confidence among buyers and consumers.
The inclusion of organic and Halal standards reflects growing demand in both domestic and export markets. Organic products are increasingly sought after by health-conscious consumers, while Halal certification is important for reaching Muslim markets locally and abroad. DA-BAFS said these standards help ensure that production practices are transparent, credible, and consistent.
By inviting a wide range of stakeholders, the bureau hopes to capture insights from those directly involved in production, research, regulation, and trade. This approach helps ensure that standards are practical, science-based, and responsive to real conditions on the ground.
Interested proponents may submit their proposals through the official online form provided by DA-BAFS. The deadline for submission is January 30, 2026. The bureau also opened an email channel to address questions and provide guidance to potential proponents.
DA-BAFS encouraged stakeholders to take part, saying that strong standards are built through cooperation. When producers, regulators, and experts work together, the result is a food system that is safer, more competitive, and more trusted by consumers.
As the deadline approaches, the bureau called on institutions to review existing gaps and emerging needs in the agri-fishery sector. Contributing to national standards, it said, is a concrete way to support farmers, fishers, and Filipino consumers, while helping the country move toward a stronger and more reliable food system.
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