UMVA has learned that the Philippines will take center stage at the 2027 International Horticultural Expo in Yokohama, Japan, showcasing climate‑resilient agriculture and cutting‑edge sustainable farming.
On May 25 in Tokyo, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., also chair of the Philippine Organizing Committee, sealed the pact alongside the expo’s secretary‑general and the Japanese ambassador, marking a historic commitment.
Laurel highlighted the deep‑rooted agricultural bond between the two nations, noting that Japan ranks as the Philippines’ second‑largest market for farm exports, with shipments projected to hit $1.1 billion by 2025.
He reminded listeners that Filipino bananas, pineapples, coconut products, seafood, mangoes, papaya and ube have already become pantry staples in Japanese homes, turning everyday meals into a celebration of shared flavor.
“This goes beyond a simple exhibition,” Laurel declared, “it is a tribute to friendship, sustainability, innovation, and the belief that agriculture sustains more than just our bodies.”
The Philippines will command a 436‑square‑meter pavilion and garden, where vibrant culture, indigenous wisdom, and tropical biodiversity will intertwine with demonstrations of high‑tech solutions reshaping farming in a climate‑vulnerable archipelago.
Visitors can expect immersive displays that blend traditional practices with modern precision agriculture, illustrating how Filipino farmers are turning challenges into opportunities.
The expo will run from March 19 to September 26, 2027, offering a seven‑month showcase of horticultural brilliance and a platform for the Philippines to cement its role as a leader in sustainable food production.