THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is fast-tracking its cold chain expansion in a bid to aid the farmers and fisherfolk amid the continued push to ensure the country’s food security.
During the annual membership meeting of the Cold Chain Association of the Philippines (CCAP), DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the agency is speeding up the cold chain expansion through the rollout of modular and mega cold storage warehouses (CSWs) in major agricultural regions.
He said these mega CSWs are being developed to handle large-volume storage, with capacities ranging from 1,700 to over 8,000 pallet positions, serving key production and distribution hubs nationwide.
To support a comprehensive logistics ecosystem, the infrastructure will also include refrigerated vans, dryers, tramlines, packaging equipment, and ice plants that feature hybrid systems, designed to operate on both renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind and electricity from the main power grid.
“These facilities are designed to be scalable and adaptable, with modular features that accommodate local conditions while maintaining operational efficiency and integrity,” said Laurel.
“This approach ensures efficient and environmentally sustainable operations, especially in remote or underserved agricultural areas,” he added.
The DA allotted P3 billion for the construction of around 99 cold storage facilities which will extend the shelf life of fruits, vegetables, and other high-value crops.
Laurel also noted the critical long-term priority for the development of food hubs and agri-fisheries ports.
He said these networks of facilities will help strengthen regional aggregation, streamline distribution, and improve market access, connecting producers directly with consumers to stabilize supply and lower food prices.
He said such investments play a vital role in empowering rural communities, promoting price stability, and reducing food waste, while building a more resilient and climate-smart agri-food system.
Laurel urged the CCAP to support the DA’s push to accelerate the development of cold storage infrastructure, which is a key component in the food security agenda of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“It is a foundation for transforming the agricultural landscape, minimizing post-harvest losses, increasing incomes for farmers and fisherfolk, and delivering safe, high-quality food to Filipino families,” he said.
He said CCAP’s technical expertise and support are vital in turning this strategic infrastructure program into reality. (TPM/SunStar Philippines)
