By Kenneth Marcos 
Behind every safe fruit and vegetable on Filipino tables are strict standards that protect consumers from harmful chemicals. This May, government experts are calling on farmers and stakeholders to take part in shaping these safety rules for two widely consumed crops—durian and lettuce.
The Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (BAFS) has announced the final Stakeholder Consultation for the development of Philippine National Standards (PNS) on Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) of pesticides for durian and lettuce. The online consultation will be held on May 7, 2026, starting at 9:00 in the morning via Google Meet.
The activity is open to pesticide regulators, assessors, farmers, and industry stakeholders, especially durian growers in Mindanao and lettuce producers in highland farming areas. Participants are encouraged to share technical inputs that may help improve the final standards.
Maximum Residue Limits refer to the highest amount of pesticide residue legally allowed in food products. These limits are set to ensure that fruits and vegetables remain safe for consumption while still allowing farmers to protect their crops from pests and diseases.
BAFS explained that the consultation is part of a broader effort to update and strengthen food safety standards in the country. By aligning local guidelines with international practices, the Philippines aims to improve both consumer protection and export competitiveness.
Durian and lettuce were chosen for this stage of consultation due to their increasing production and market demand. Durian is one of the country’s key export fruits, while lettuce is a high-value crop commonly used in restaurants and urban farming.
Agriculture experts say that proper pesticide regulation is essential. When misused, pesticides can leave harmful residues that may affect human health. At the same time, farmers rely on these products to protect crops from pests that can reduce yield and income.
The government is encouraging active participation from stakeholders to ensure that the final standards are practical and science-based. Inputs from farmers are especially important, as they reflect real conditions in the field.
Registration for the consultation is free, and interested participants may join through an online link provided by BAFS. Draft documents and program details are also available for review prior to the event.
Officials emphasized that food safety is a shared responsibility. From farm production to market delivery, cooperation between government, farmers, and consumers is key to ensuring safe and high-quality food.
As the Philippines continues to strengthen its agricultural standards, consultations like this play a vital role in building trust and improving the country’s food system.
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