By Kenneth Marcos 
Farmers and fishers in remote Batanes receive new support to boost local livelihood
BASCO, Batanes — In the quiet northernmost corner of the Philippines, where strong winds often shake homes and seas dictate the rhythm of life, hope came ashore this week.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. visited the province of Batanes on October 9, 2025, bringing much-needed assistance to local farmers and fisherfolk as part of the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) intensified support for remote communities.
Secretary Laurel’s visit highlights the Marcos administration’s commitment to uplift rural livelihoods under the Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas program.
Direct support for Ivatan farmers and fishers
During his visit, Laurel personally led the distribution of agricultural and fisheries assistance packages to various barangays in Basco and nearby towns. These included modern farm equipment, vegetable seeds, organic fertilizers, fuel subsidies, and post-harvest tools for small-scale farmers.
For fisherfolk, fiberglass boats, fishing nets, engines, and cold storage units were turned over to strengthen local capacity and reduce spoilage of catch.
“This is not just a one-time visit,” Laurel said. “The government is working to ensure that communities like Batanes are not left behind, no matter how far they are.”
Local farmers expressed gratitude, sharing how they have long struggled with high transport costs, limited market access, and unpredictable weather.
“Malaking tulong ‘to sa amin. Hirap talaga ang mga tanim namin kapag tag-ulan o ‘pag may bagyo,” said Mang Felix, a 52-year-old root crop farmer from Mahatao.
Agriculture in Batanes: Small-scale but vital
Batanes, composed of rugged islands near Taiwan, is known for its natural beauty and resilient Ivatan culture. However, farming and fishing remain challenging due to the province’s isolation, frequent typhoons, and lack of infrastructure.
The province mainly produces root crops like ube, gabi, and camote, as well as traditional vegetables and native livestock. Fishing, especially for flying fish (dibang), is a seasonal livelihood.
According to DA regional data, over 2,000 farmers and fisherfolk are registered in Batanes, with most practicing subsistence farming.
Climate-resilient programs in focus
Aside from direct aid, Secretary Laurel also introduced climate-resilient agriculture programs, such as typhoon-resistant greenhouses, crop insurance education, and early warning systems.
He also met with local officials to discuss long-term plans, including upgrading farm-to-market roads and building fish ports that can withstand rough seas.
The DA is coordinating with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to fast-track infrastructure improvements.
“We are investing in solutions that make sense for Batanes. Hindi ito copy-paste na programa lang. We’re listening to the needs of the Ivatan people,” Laurel said.
Community-first development
Residents of Batanes, who are known for their deep community ties and sustainable practices, welcomed the approach.
Mayor German Caccam of Basco said the government’s attention is “a long-overdue lifeline” for the province’s agricultural sector.
“We don’t ask for much. Just enough support so our people can work with dignity and feed their families,” he said.
Looking forward
As Secretary Laurel concluded his visit, he assured the Ivatans that the DA will continue to deliver support, monitor progress, and help Batanes adapt to modern farming techniques while preserving its rich heritage.
“We are building a food-secure Philippines, and every island — no matter how far — has a role to play,” he said.
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