Boosting Crop Growth: China's PHP 782-M Urea Fertilizers Arrive in the Philippines

Philippines: The Palace announced that the Philippines has received a shipment of Urea fertilizer from China worth around 100 million yuan (approximately PHP 782 million) to aid farmers in reducing production costs. This type of fertilizer is commonly used in the country's agriculture sector as both a fertilizer and animal feed additive. The fertilizer will be distributed to 160,000 rice and corn farmers in various regions through a voucher system, covering 200,000 hectares at two bags per hectare. A turnover ceremony was conducted at the National Food Authority warehouse in Valenzuela City on Friday, to mark the delivery of 20,000 metric tons of Urea fertilizers, which is equivalent to 400,000 bags. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Social Welfare Secretary, Rex Gatchalian, and the Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian.

In accordance with the statement from Malacanang, the latest donation of Urea is included in the grant that was given under the Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation between China and the Philippines. This agreement was signed on April 25, 2019.

The donation was a result of the Philippines' request for assistance during the current crisis caused by the supply chain problem that led to the increase in fertilizer prices. In a speech, Marcos expressed gratitude towards China for their swift action and understanding of the situation. He also revealed having a positive conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping when the Philippines made the request for assistance.

In January, during Marcos' visit to Beijing, the Philippine government signed a cooperation agreement with two Chinese fertilizer manufacturing firms. The purpose of the agreement was to ensure a sustainable supply of fertilizers at reasonable prices. Recently, Huang confirmed that the deliverable has arrived on schedule. In response to this, Marcos expressed his gratitude and stated that this donation would significantly aid agricultural production and the nation's pursuit of food security. He added that the donated goods would benefit Filipino farmers by allowing them to invest their savings from production costs in other areas that matter to them and their families. Soon, these goods will be distributed to the farmers.

During his speech, Huang expressed that the donation reflects China's "action and sincerity," and highlights the friendship between the Chinese people and the people of the Philippines. He also emphasized that with effective communication and management of differences, the relationship between China and the Philippines will continue to develop and have a bright future. Marcos echoed this sentiment, stating that the agriculture cooperation between Beijing and Manila shows great promise, as both countries share similar priorities in this field and can learn from one another. In addition to providing Urea fertilizers, Marcos mentioned that China also contributed PHP 4 million worth of rice to support evacuees impacted by Mayon Volcano's activity.

During his speech, he stated that these acts of generosity symbolize the importance of the relationship between our two nations. He emphasized the need to continuously nurture and care for this bond through mutual assistance and friendly dialogue. "I assure the Chinese government that the Philippines is committed to strengthening our ties and advancing our shared interests," he added. With the implementation of the RCEP, it is evident that trade volumes will increase. He expressed optimism about the future of trade between China and the Philippines, not only in agriculture but in other sectors as well. He believes that the trade between the two countries will only continue to grow.