PARTNERSHIP. Department of Agriculture officials led by Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban (4th from left) with SGS Philippines representatives after a meeting on Monday (July 31, 2023). The meeting focused on possible partnerships aimed at addressing challenges confronting the country's agriculture sector. (Photo from DA Facebook page)
MANILA – Officials of the Department of Agriculture (DA) on Monday met with representatives of SGS Philippines Inc. to discuss possible partnerships aimed at addressing challenges affecting the industry, including African swine fever (ASF).
In a statement, the DA noted that the meeting also centered on how to address other challenges related to animal health, as well as curbing agricultural smuggling.
During the meeting, DA officials led by Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban discussed joint activities that may address the challenges faced by the Philippine agriculture sector.
Also present were DA Assistant Secretary for Regulations Paz Benavidez, Assistant Secretary for Policy Research and Development Noel Padre, and Assistant Secretary for Inspectorate and Enforcement James Layug.
It added that the attendees have expressed support for a possible alliance that will benefit the country’s food industry by protecting locally produced farm products and ensuring healthy stock and swine production.
Operating in the Philippines since 1949, the SGS Philippines has been providing a wide range of solutions in the agricultural sector including testing and inspection services and agricultural contract research.
It is also engaged in soil sampling, mapping, and classification to maximize food productivity.
The SGS Philippines Inc. is the country’s leading provider of certification, testing, verification and inspection.
It has offices and laboratories in Makati, Subic, Mariveles, Navotas, Batangas, Albay, Nueva Vizcaya, Masbate, Leyte, Surigao City, Davao City, and Cebu City. (PNA)
