DA lifts moratorium on farmland conversion

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has lifted the moratorium on reclassification of agricultural land, opening up more space for new commercial, industrial and infrastructure developments.

Under Department Circular No. 32, the DA has resumed the processing of applications for the conversion of agricultural land following five months of suspension.

READ: DA’s move vs land conversion

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In January, the DA halted the issuance of certifications on land use reclassification to safeguard farmlands against undue conversion and prevent threats to food security. It also wanted to strengthen its regulatory oversight.

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During the suspension, the DA convened a technical working group to review and update guidelines on the issuance of DA certification on land use reclassification.

The agency exempted certain projects from the moratorium, namely renewable energy, government socialized housing projects and agro-industrial zones.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. told the Inquirer in a message that the DA would issue updated guidelines, but he did not provide additional details.

READ: Farm conversion OK’d for renewable energy, socialized housing

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The agency earlier imposed the five-month suspension after receiving an increasing number of land use reclassification applications amid rapid demand for urban expansion, infrastructure development and local zoning revisions.

This “may adversely affect agricultural production areas, agribusiness investments and long-term national food supply stability if not properly regulated,” according to Department Circular No. 1 promulgated in January.

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It added that all parcels of land devoted to production must be “preserved to protect national food supply stability and uphold the long-term welfare of Filipino farmers and consumers.”

The Local Government Code authorizes cities and municipalities to reclassify agricultural land, provided that the space is no longer economically feasible for agricultural purposes. Conversion is also allowed if the land could unlock substantially greater economic value for residential, commercial or industrial purposes. DA certification is one of the requirements. INQ

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