The governments of Japan and the Philippines have signed an agreement to establish a modern rice processing system in Cauayan City, Isabela, a project aimed at strengthening agricultural productivity and ensuring food security in Northern Luzon.
The Exchange of Notes for the initiative, officially titled the “Project for the Establishment of a Rice Processing System in Cauayan, Isabela Province,” was signed on October 16, 2025 by Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Ono Sho of the Embassy of Japan and Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro at the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila.
Also present at the signing were National Food Authority (NFA) Administrator Larry Lacson and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Philippines Chief Representative Baba Takashi.
Under the agreement, the Government of Japan will provide grant assistance worth approximately ¥1.7 billion (around ₱620 million) to support the project’s implementation. The facility is designed to reduce post-harvest losses, improve rice milling efficiency, and strengthen the local rice value chain, enabling the NFA to better fulfill its mandate of maintaining a sufficient national buffer stock.
In his remarks, Ono expressed optimism that the project will significantly enhance rice production and post-harvest infrastructure in the Philippines. “We hope this project will contribute to improving the livelihoods of rice farmers and ensuring a stable and affordable rice supply for Filipino consumers,” he said.
The initiative reflects Japan’s continued commitment to supporting sustainable agricultural development and food security in the Philippines through its long-standing partnership with JICA. It also underscores the enduring friendship between the two nations and their shared goal of promoting inclusive rural growth and economic resilience.