By Kenneth Marcos 
In meeting rooms, farms, and classrooms across the country, experts and stakeholders are once again preparing to shape the rules that guide the nation’s food system. This week, the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (DA-BAFS) opened its call for proposals for new or updated Philippine National Standards (PNS) for 2025, inviting groups nationwide to help strengthen the quality and safety of the country’s agri-fishery products.
The PNS system serves as the backbone of food safety and product quality in the Philippines. These standards define how crops, livestock, and fishery products should be produced, handled, processed, and labeled. They also cover specialized areas such as organic agriculture and Halal certification—two sectors that continue to grow as consumer demand shifts toward healthier and ethically produced goods.
In its announcement, DA-BAFS encouraged qualified organizations to submit proposals for the development, amendment, or revision of existing standards. Eligible proponents include DA regulatory agencies, regional field offices, national banner programs, academic institutions, professional groups, and industry associations. These proposals must reflect the official position of the submitting organization and align with BAFS’ mandate to improve safety, competitiveness, and market access for local products.
Officials explained that every proposal will undergo a pre-assessment to determine its relevance, potential impact, and alignment with national priorities. Standards that help ensure food safety, improve product quality, or boost the country’s competitiveness in global markets will be prioritized. This process is crucial, especially as the agricultural sector adapts to climate-related risks, rising production costs, and increasing international trade requirements.
BAFS also highlighted that updated and science-based standards help protect consumers while giving farmers and producers clearer guidelines to meet market demands. With many smallholders still struggling to comply with modern regulations, the agency hopes that broader participation from stakeholders will produce standards that are practical, fair, and responsive to current challenges.
Interested groups may submit their proposals through the online link provided by BAFS. The deadline for submission is January 30, 2026. For questions or clarifications, proponents may contact the bureau via its official email.
By opening this call, the DA-BAFS hopes to build a more resilient and competitive agricultural sector—one that supports farmers, protects consumers, and meets the expectations of both local and international markets. The agency emphasized that shaping national standards is a shared responsibility, and meaningful improvements begin with inclusive participation.
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