Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Monday highlighted the long-term benefits of the USD8 million worth of investment in smart greenhouses in Aklan.

The project was formally launched by the DA, in partnership with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), at the Aklan Agri-Aqua Demo Farm and Training Center in Barangay Nalook, Kalibo town on Jan. 23.

In a statement, the agriculture chief said the flagship project under the Value Chain Enhancement of High-Value Crops through Smart Agriculture (VEHCSA) seeks to provide a long-term impact on the lives of Filipino farmers.

“This project is an investment in our farmers’ future — improving productivity, climate resilience, and rural livelihoods,” Tiu Laurel said.

The VEHCSA Project seeks to boost the efficiency of the production system for vegetables and high-value crops, such as cherry tomato, lettuce, honeydew melon, cucumber, bell pepper, herbs, chives, and sesame leaf. using smart farming technologies.

Tiu Laurel said the VEHCSA project will create more opportunities in rural communities, strengthen the high-value crops sector, and ensure lasting benefits through strong collaboration with local governments, farmers’ organizations, and development partners.

The DA plans to establish similar smart facilities in Antique, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental.

For his part, South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa said the greenhouse facility will help to further improve the agricultural landscape.

“We are breaking ground not just on infrastructure, but on a shared vision — a resilient and inclusive agricultural future,” he said.

Aklan Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores thanked the DA for choosing the province as the first implementer of the project in Western Visayas.

“This will strengthen food security, support Boracay’s tourism demand, and provide lasting benefits for local farmers and communities,” he said, as he pledged continued provincial support for the project.

During the event, the DA also turned over a refrigerated van to project beneficiaries, supporting post-harvest handling and cold chain systems to preserve crop quality and reduce losses.

DA Western Visayas Regional Executive Director Dennis Arpia thanked KOICA and the Korean government, sayig the partnership strengthens agricultural value chains, improves productivity, and benefits farmers, cooperatives, and local stakeholders. (PNA)