By Kenneth Marcos 
As government offices wind down their workweek, many researchers, farmers’ groups, and industry experts are racing against time. January 30 marks the final day to submit proposals that could shape how food, farm products, and machinery are produced and regulated in the Philippines in the coming years.
The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (DA-BAFS) has issued a final call for Philippine National Standards (PNS) proposals for 2025. The agency is inviting stakeholders to submit proposals for the development, amendment, or revision of standards covering agricultural and fishery products, including organic and Halal products, as well as agricultural and fishery machinery.
DA-BAFS said the initiative aims to ensure that Philippine standards remain updated, science-based, and responsive to the needs of farmers, fishers, consumers, and the growing agri-food industry. National standards play a key role in food safety, product quality, and market competitiveness, both locally and internationally.
Eligible proponents include DA food safety regulatory agencies, other DA regulatory offices, regional field offices, and national banner programs. Academic institutions, professional organizations, and trade or industry groups are also encouraged to participate. According to DA-BAFS, proposals should reflect the collective position of the submitting organization or agency, rather than individual views.
Once submitted, proposals will undergo pre-assessment and prioritization. DA-BAFS will evaluate each proposal based on its alignment with the bureau’s mandate and its potential impact on improving the safety, quality, and competitiveness of agriculture and fishery products. Proposals that address emerging risks, new technologies, climate resilience, and market demands are expected to be given priority.
Philippine National Standards serve as technical guidelines that help protect consumers while supporting producers. For farmers and fishers, clear standards can mean better access to markets, fairer pricing, and reduced losses due to rejected products. For consumers, these standards help ensure that food on the table is safe and meets quality requirements.
In recent years, the agriculture and fisheries sector has faced growing challenges, including climate change, rising input costs, and stricter global trade rules. Updating standards is seen as one way to help local producers adapt and remain competitive. For example, standards on machinery can promote efficiency and safety, while updated product standards can open doors to export markets.
DA-BAFS emphasized that stakeholder participation is essential in building practical and inclusive standards. By involving groups on the ground, the bureau aims to create rules that are not only technically sound but also realistic to implement, especially for small farmers and fishers.
Interested proponents may submit their proposals through the official online form provided by DA-BAFS. The deadline is January 30, 2026. Inquiries may be sent to the bureau through its designated email channel.
As the deadline approaches, DA-BAFS urged stakeholders not to miss the opportunity to contribute. The standards developed today will help shape the future of Philippine agriculture and fisheries, influencing how food is produced, processed, and brought to Filipino households.
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