The MOA was signed in Gerona in Tarlac of the Philippines, for the implementation of the “Swine Rehabilitation, Repopulation and Recovery Credit” or Swine R3 program. The program will finance bio-secured farm projects and thus support the national government’s efforts in reviving the local swine industry adversely affected by ASF disease.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar, who witnessed the MOA signing, said this is a welcome development for us at the DA as we pursue joint efforts to control ASF and repopulate ASF-free areas. With CPF Philippines technological expertise in modern biosecure farms and DBP’s support in providing credit assistance to eligible public and private institutions, we will be able to level up our efforts in reviving the industry.

“I am glad that we have partnered with a well-known company such as the CPFPC, showing the way to help government revive our swine industry. They have the technologies and the modern systems in managing ASF, especially when it comes to biosecurity measures. I hope the CPFPC can expand their operations in regions near the NCR, where the country’s main pork market is,” Secretary Dar said.

Mr Cheewakoset said that CPF Philippines, a Thai agro-industrial company, one of overseas operational base of Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL (CP Foods), is operating the business in the Philippines by adhering the “3-Benefit Principles” of Charoen Pokphand Group (CP Group) senior chairman Dhanin Chearavanont. This partnership program is part of the company’s commitment to create benefits for this country by building food security. This project will ensure that the Filipino people have access to quality and safe food with affordable prices and also promote stable career and income for farmers which contributing to the sustainable economic and social development of the Philippines.

“Through this partnership, we will be able to share our knowledge in helping boost a sustainable business climate not only for our company, but also for our Filipino farmer-partners. Our state-of-the-art biosecure farms enable us to be resilient from ASF, thus making our business a success. Moving forward, this will also open export opportunities for the Philippines. We assure and commit to you our continuous support in investing in the Philippines,” Mr Cheewakoset said.