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May 30, 2025 | Quezon City — The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) is calling on all qualified public and private laboratories to take part in a major national initiative to improve testing standards for agricultural inputs. FPA officially launched the Enhanced Laboratory Recognition Program during its 48th Founding Anniversary celebration — a strategic effort to ensure that only safe, high-quality fertilizers and pesticides reach Filipino farmers.

The new program invites laboratories across the country to apply for official FPA recognition by meeting strict standards in testing accuracy, safety, and regulatory compliance. Anchored on FPA Memorandum Circular No. 2017-05, the initiative promotes the use of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and alignment with international benchmarks such as ISO/IEC 17025, thereby strengthening the integrity of agrichemical testing in the Philippines.

“Only with this level of excellence can we guarantee products that are both safe for use and promote productivity and sustainability in our agricultural sector,” said Dr. Jerolet C. Sahagun, Chief of the FPA Laboratory Services Division. She added that the program not only improves regulatory decision-making but also enhances public confidence in the fertilizer and pesticide industry.

What the enhanced laboratory recognition program offers

The Enhanced Laboratory Recognition Program provides a structured framework to certify laboratories that demonstrate:

• Compliance with FPA regulations and safety protocols
• Conformity with ISO/IEC 17025 standards for laboratory competence
• Consistent, accurate, and reliable test results
• Participation in proficiency testing programs
• Strong quality assurance systems and safety standards
• Environmental responsibility and ethical testing practices

The step-by-step evaluation process

Eligible laboratories must undergo a rigorous, multi-phase process:

1. Submission of application and documentary requirements
2. Preliminary technical review by qualified assessors
3. On-site inspection of laboratory equipment, staff, and procedures
4. Performance evaluation and result validation
5. Granting of official FPA recognition for successful applicants

Laboratories must also demonstrate a culture of continuous improvement to retain recognition over time.

Strengthening product safety through quality testing

By implementing the Enhanced Laboratory Recognition Program, FPA ensures that testing laboratories become reliable partners in promoting safe, effective, and high-quality agrichemical products. The program supports the agency’s broader mission of protecting public health, supporting sustainable agriculture, and enforcing science-based regulation.

“Reliable laboratory testing is the foundation of sound regulatory policy and farmer safety,” Dr. Sahagun emphasized. “We encourage laboratories nationwide to join this initiative and become leaders in agricultural quality assurance.”

🎥 Watch the official launch video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NGmoVkDUIM. ###

Written by: FPA Information Section

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

June 5, 2025 | Tuguegarao City – The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority – Regional Field Unit II (FPA-RFU II) joined the CropLife Regional Action Network (CRAN) Region II in a Training of Trainers (ToT) on Product Stewardship and Pesticide Resistance Management held at the Pulsar Hotel on June 5, 2025.

The initiative, spearheaded by CropLife Philippines and its member companies, aims to promote the responsible and safe use of crop protection products through education and partnership. The training covered key topics such as pest resistance management (including both insect and herbicide resistance), safe pesticide handling and storage, first aid and poisoning response, and compliance with FPA stewardship reporting requirements.

“This is a milestone for future partnerships,” said Regional Officer Mr. Leonardo A. Bangad. “We hope that activities like this will be sustained for the benefit of our farmers and stakeholders.”

Participants included representatives from CropLife member companies, Provincial Agriculture Offices from Quirino, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, and Cagayan, as well as the Cagayan Valley Medical Center (CVMC).

FPA firmly upholds product stewardship—the idea that everyone involved in the life cycle of fertilizers and pesticides has a role in ensuring they are used safely and responsibly to protect people and the environment. In support of this commitment, the FPA launched the FPA CARES Awards, which recognize outstanding efforts in compliance, advocacy, research, environmental protection, and stewardship during the FPA’s 48th Anniversary.###

Written by: Arwin Cardenas, FPA Regional Field Unit II

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

May 30, 2025 | Quezon City — The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) celebrated its 48th Founding Anniversary with the theme “Smarter Regulations, Nurturing Innovations,” reinforcing its mission to modernize regulatory practices that support a productive, safe, and sustainable agricultural sector in the Philippines.

Held at the FPA Central Office in Diliman, Quezon City, the milestone event highlighted the agency’s drive for regulatory excellence and innovation. The celebration featured the launch of new regulatory initiatives, a presentation of key 2024 accomplishments, and the recognition of valued partners and stakeholders.

Certificates of Appreciation were awarded to technical advisory committees, regional enforcement teams, and government partners such as the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) for their continued support in reinforcing the Agency’s mandate and public awareness.

Leaders from major industry organizations, including the Fertilizer Industry Association of the Philippines (FIAP), Crop Protection Association of the Philippines (CPAP), CROPLIFE Philippines, Philippine Integrated Crop Management Association, Inc. (PICMA), and the PMCP Foundation Inc. (PMCPFI), delivered messages of support emphasizing collaborative regulation and innovation.

Leadership voices support for innovation and integrity

In his keynote address, FPA Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada underscored the transformative role of regulation in national development.

“Let this celebration remind us that regulations should never be a roadblock to progress; they should be the bridges to greater productivity, safety, and sustainability. This is the new FPA—one that regulates with empathy, innovates with purpose, and serves with integrity,” Dir. Estrada said.

Representing Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr., Assistant Secretary Daniel Alfonso N. Atayde emphasized the importance of integrity and innovation in public service.

“As we move forward, we must remember that real progress is delivered by the people—people who believe in the value of preparation, innovation, and integrity. The success of FPA reflects your collective spirit. It is a story of resilience, evolving with the times, and consistently striving to serve our country better,” expressed ASec. Atayde.

High-ranking Department of Agriculture officials, including Undersecretaries Roger V. Navarro, Christopher V. Morales, Asis G. Perez, and Assistant Secretary Paz J. Benavidez II, reaffirmed their full support for FPA’s science-driven and forward-looking regulatory work.

To close the program, Deputy Executive Director for Pesticide Eric C. Divinagracia delivered a call to action for stronger public-private partnerships, signaling the agency’s continued direction toward inclusive, transparent, and smart regulation.###

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA), an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture, in coordination with the Philippine National Police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group–National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR), has confiscated thousands of unregistered pesticide and fertilizer products valued at approximately P4 million.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. praised the swift enforcement action, describing it as a clear demonstration of government resolve. “This action clearly demonstrates the resolve of government agencies to carry out the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to protect our farmers as well as local businesses against these unfair and illicit trade practices,” he said.

The enforcement operation stemmed from a formal complaint received by the FPA, implicating WLEX Company in the distribution of illegal agricultural inputs. The products were recovered from a commercial establishment being used for unauthorized storage and distribution.

Among the seized items were 641 one-liter bottles of Axonic pesticide, 748 one-liter bottles of Sapphire pesticide, 220 one-liter bottles of Chlonil pesticide, four sacks of Welzeb, and multiple variants of the bio-stimulant Nutrinaro SC—5,590 sachets (10g), 345 sachets (50g), and 90 sachets (5g). Authorities also recovered 220 pieces and 800 packs of Norinano Plus (10g), along with three containers of unidentified chemical substances.

According to the FPA, the brands Axonic, Sapphire, Chlonil, and Welzeb are not registered with the agency and are considered illegal.

WLEX is also not licensed to handle pesticide products. Although the company once held a valid certification as a fertilizer importer and distributor, its license is only effective until December 7, 2024. Only one of its products, Norinano Plus Soil Conditioner, remains registered with the FPA until February 4, 2027.

Investigators found that the products had been repackaged locally and falsely advertised as imported, in an apparent effort to mislead buyers.

“We are serious in our campaign against the proliferation of these adulterated and unregistered products that hurt not only legitimate businesses but our farmers and overall farm productivity,” said FPA Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada. “We will remain vigilant to ensure only legitimate products are sold to our farmers.”

All confiscated items have been turned over to the Department of Agriculture for safekeeping and legal documentation. Investigations are ongoing, and appropriate charges will be filed under existing laws.

The FPA urges farmers and agri-suppliers to purchase only from licensed dealers and to verify products through official FPA Alert Lines. ###

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

May 17, 2025 | Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya – In a coordinated operation to enforce national regulations on agricultural inputs, the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Region 2 and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Region 2, with support from the Bambang Municipal Police Station, apprehended an individual for selling unregistered fertilizers and pesticides in Barangay San Antonio, Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya on May 17, 2025.

The suspect, known by the alias “Jun,” was arrested at approximately 12:55 p.m. for violating provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1144, which governs the regulation, registration, and distribution of fertilizers and pesticides in the Philippines.

Confiscated items included various unregistered agricultural products with an estimated value of PHP150,000. These products were identified as:

• 14 bottles of suspected unregistered “Crop Booster” (500 ml each)
  
• 7 bottles of “More Harvest” (500 ml each)
  
• 20 bottles of “Longdeath” (250 ml each)
  
• 20 bottles of “Kill” (250 ml each)
  
• 3 bottles of emamectin benzoate, a regulated pesticide

Authorities also seized a Mio 125 motorcycle allegedly used in the distribution of the products, along with PHP1,000 in genuine currency and PHP36,000 in boodle money used as part of the entrapment operation.

The suspect was brought to the CIDG Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Field Unit for documentation and filing of appropriate charges for violation of Section 9 in relation to Section 2 of PD 1144. A second suspect, known by the alias “MJ,” remains at large and is likewise facing legal action.

Barangay San Antonio officials witnessed the operation, which was conducted lawfully and fully documented in accordance with proper procedures.

This operation underscores the government’s firm stance against the illegal trade of agricultural inputs and its continued commitment to protect Filipino farmers and consumers from potentially harmful, substandard, or misrepresented products.

The FPA reminds the public that only registered and approved fertilizers and pesticides should be purchased and used. Consumers are encouraged to report suspicious products or activities through official FPA communication channels.nhanced drone application guidelines, continue the full automation of licensing and registration platforms, and lead regional caravans promoting safe and responsible fertilizer and pesticide use. ###

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

May 16, 2025 | Quezon City – In celebration of its 48th founding anniversary, the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) reaffirmed its commitment  to enhance regulatory systems and adopt modern technologies for the benefit of Filipino farmers during a press conference held at the Philippine Information Agency on May 16, 2025.

Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada outlined the agency’s strategic initiatives starting 2025 and the next succeeding years, focusing on the protection of farmers, consumers, and the environment through science-based policies and expanded enforcement capacity. The 10 key components of the agency’s forward strategy include:

• Laboratory Recognition Program – Enhancing the recognition of public and private laboratories conducting fertilizer and pesticide quality testing and analysis to promote access in various locations nationwide.
  
• Border Control, Monitoring, and Enforcement – Strengthening the FPA’s capability to prevent the entry and circulation of unregistered, adulterated, or substandard fertilizers and pesticides.
  
• Training Program, and IEC – Expanding efforts to educate handlers, farmers, and stakeholders on safe and responsible product use through modern learning platforms.
  
• Establishment of Major Island-Wide FPA Facilities – Building full-service FPA facilities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, primarily equipped with laboratory, training, and storage (warehousing) functions.
  
• Strengthening Product Stewardship Program – Promoting responsible handling, application, and disposal of agrochemicals, especially those used with drone technology.
  
• Digitalization of Frontline Services – Automating licensing, registration, and regulatory services to enhance efficiency and transparency.
  
• Research for Regulations – Achieving evidence-based policymaking through various research methods such as post-registration trials, standards development, and regulatory impact assessments.

• Support Program for Fertilizer and Pesticide Evaluators – Enhance the capability of evaluators in scientific assessment, risk analysis, and regulatory compliance.

• Development of Animal Disinfectant Regulatory Framework – Strengthening regulatory framework to ensure the safety, efficacy, and responsible use of disinfectant products used in livestock and veterinary facilities.

• Amendment of PD 1144 – Lobbying the amendment of PD 1144 for the expansion of FPA’s regulatory mandate to research, extension and development to better serve Filipino farmers.  

“In the face of increasing agricultural demands, climate challenges, and technological shifts, the FPA is committed to reforming and modernizing its regulatory services to better serve Filipino farmers and safeguard consumer welfare,” said Director Estrada.

When asked about expired fertilizers upon detection, Dir. Estrada said that these products are subject to strict enforcement protocols. “Once identified, expired products are confiscated and placed under Stop Use, Move and Sale (SUMS) orders pending final decision. These cannot be distributed or used,” he said.

On issues such as underweight products and unlicensed handlers, Dir. Estrada said the FPA is enhancing monitoring at ports of entry, where all fertilizers and pesticides—registered or not—pass through. He noted that the agency has initiated coordination with the Bureau of Customs and the Philippine Ports Authority to intercept substandard and illegal products early on.

Director Estrada also discussed current agency actions, including tighter coordination with port authorities to prevent the entry of illegal products, and reiterated the agency’s support for LGUs in the proper disposal of pesticide containers, in line with Republic Act No. 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.

Looking ahead to 2025, FPA will roll out enhanced drone application guidelines, continue the full automation of licensing and registration platforms, and lead regional caravans promoting safe and responsible fertilizer and pesticide use. ###

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

May 15, 2025 | Quezon City – The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA), led by Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada, will be celebrating its 48th anniversary on May 30, with the theme: “Smarter Regulations, Nurturing Innovation.” 

The theme captures the agency’s ongoing efforts to modernize its regulatory framework, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and embrace new technologies in support of Philippine agriculture.

Dir. Estrada emphasized that the FPA, established under Presidential Decree 1144, continues to play a vital role in ensuring access to safe and effective fertilizers and pesticides while protecting public health and the environment. “Through digitalization, evidence-based policies, and collaborative efforts, we are responding to the dynamic needs of the agricultural sector,” he said.

The FPA detailed how it is leveraging its mandate—which includes licensing, quality assurance, import control, stewardship, and public information—not merely as regulatory duties but as platforms for encouraging innovation. The agency cited the integration of precision farming practices such as drone-assisted spraying of fertilizers and pesticides as a key example.

Two ongoing projects were spotlighted: the Composting Facility for Biodegradable Wastes Program – supports LGUs in waste-to-compost initiatives through provision of composting facilities. On the other hand, the Drones4Rice Program — promotes the use of drones in agriculture through the development of protocols, standards, and monitoring systems.

As part of its long-term strategy, Dir. Estrada, who recently took office as head of FPA in April 2025, presented his Ten Strategic Initiatives that will guide FPA’s future actions. 

One major institutional goal is to amend Presidential Decree 1144 by advocating for a Republic Act that would expand FPA’s authority to include research, development, and extension services that will enable the agency to adapt to modern agricultural needs.

FPA announced key projects and activities for 2025, such as the enhancement of drone application policies, further digitalization of licensing and accreditation processes, intensified first-border inspections, and continued updates to the Fertilizer and Pesticide Regulatory Policies (Bluebook and Greenbook). Public engagement efforts such as regional information caravans will also be expanded, particularly in Regions 8, 4, 5, 2, Caraga, 11, 9, and 10.

“We reaffirm our commitment to serve as a partner in nation-building,” said Dir. Estrada. “By combining smarter regulations with responsible innovation, the FPA remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard agricultural productivity and sustainability.” ###

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

March 27, 2025 | QUEZON CITY – Dir. Glenn DC. Estrada officially took his oath as Executive Director III of the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) before Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. on March 27, 2025, at the Department of Agriculture Central Office.

Under his leadership, the agency is set to implement a 10-point agenda that reflects its vision of becoming a smarter and more responsive regulatory body. This includes strengthening laboratory accreditation, improving border control to prevent the spread of substandard products, and expanding farmer education through digital platforms.

The FPA also plans to establish regional facilities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, launch a product stewardship program for responsible agrochemical use, and digitalize frontline services for improved efficiency.

Additional priorities include capacity building for evaluators, enhanced regulatory research, the development of a framework for animal disinfectants, and the amendment of Presidential Decree No. 1144 to align the agency’s legal foundation with current agricultural and technological developments.

Before this appointment, Dir. Estrada served as Officer-in-Charge Executive Director and Deputy Executive Director for Fertilizer on January 10, 2025..

Dir. Estrada previously held key roles at the Department of Agriculture, including Deputy Director of the National Rice Program and Director-Designate for Digitalization and Value Chain Development. In these roles, he played a pivotal part in advancing vital agricultural initiatives.

Dir. Estrada is a graduate of BS Agricultural Economics from the University of the Philippines Los Baños. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Development Management from the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), where he was recognized for Academic Excellence, Leadership, and Best Capstone Project. In 2024, he received the prestigious PMDP-Dangal Award in recognition of his significant contributions to agricultural digitalization.

With his extensive background in strategic planning, policy development, and digital innovation, the FPA is confident in Dir. Estrada’s leadership to drive the agency’s mission of ensuring the availability, quality, and safety of fertilizers and pesticides for Filipino farmers.####

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

March 31, 2025 | San Fernando City, Pampanga – The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Central Luzon clarified concerns regarding the usability of expired pesticide products during an Accredited Safety Dispenser (ASD) training held at Benigno Aquino Hall, Capitol Compound, from March 26-27, 2025.

Participants raised questions about whether expired pesticides could still be used or sold. Addressing these concerns, FPA Regional Officer (RO) Mr. Mark Nicky S. Larga emphasized that expired pesticides must undergo stability testing before any extension of their shelf life can be considered. He warned that using expired products is strongly discouraged, as it may compromise safety, reduce effectiveness, contribute to pest resistance, and even cause crop damage.

The training also covered critical topics such as pesticide poisoning, safe storage practices, and the environmental and health risks associated with improper handling. Participants received in-depth discussions on Presidential Decree 1144, general pesticide information, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), good housekeeping practices, soil science, and proper fertilizer application techniques.

A total of 56 participants from Central Luzon, Region I, and the National Capital Region (NCR) attended the training, demonstrating their commitment to upholding safety standards and fulfilling the mandatory requirement for securing a dealer’s license.

The training was facilitated by RO Mr. Mark Nicky S. Larga, supported by Provincial Officers Jessielyn M. Alfuente, Dennis S. Mallari, Robilyn O. Sarmiento, Roel P. Valdez, Jerson M. Lopez, William P. Gante, and Administrative Aide June M. De Leon. ###

Written by: Mark Nicky S. Larga

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

March 14, 2025 | Iguig, Cagayan — To develop competent and safety-conscious advocates who will ensure the safe and proper management of fertilizers and pesticides, the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Cagayan Valley conducted an Accredited Safety Dispenser (ASD) training at DA-CVRC, Minanga Norte, Iguig, Cagayan on March 12-13, 2025.

The training was organized in response to recent inspections revealing a shortage of ASDs in several agricultural stores. To address this gap, the program equipped participants with essential skills for safely handling and managing fertilizers and pesticides. Key topics included FPA regulations, pesticide safety, fertilizer handling, poisoning response, and first aid. Participants underwent a pre-examination to assess their initial knowledge and a post-examination to evaluate their learning outcomes.

Regional Officer Mr. Leonardo A. Bangad emphasized that the training was not merely about regulatory compliance but also about fostering responsible partners who can guide farmers on safely using farm inputs.

Beyond technical knowledge, the training highlighted the moral responsibility of safety dispensers to ensure that every product sold upholds both quality and safety for farmers and their communities.

A total of fifty participants from Cagayan province completed the training, strengthening the region’s capacity for safer agricultural practices.###

Written by: Arwin A. Cardenas

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team