Landbank loans to agriculture, rural development reach P909 billion

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Bank of the Philippines has granted P908.77 billion in loans to agriculture, fisheries and rural development as of March, while ramping up efforts to advance food security.

The state-run lender said in a statement that this accounted for 58.4 percent of its total loan portfolio.

More than lending, Landbank said it continues to push for value chain-based initiatives that cover post-harvest handling, storage, processing, logistics and market access.

Landbank added that it is also promoting risk-sharing mechanisms and bankable investments in cold storage, logistics hubs and climate-resilient infrastructure.

Last week, Landbank hosted the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) high-level roundtable discussion on ASEAN food security, followed by the ceremonial signing of key memoranda of understanding on multi-sectoral partnership and the Landbank-ASEAN-BAC Philippines partnership.

“Food security is no longer just a national concern — it is a regional imperative that requires decisive action and sustained investment,” Landbank president and CEO Lynette Ortiz said.

She noted that the bank remains committed to mobilizing capital, boosting value chains and anchoring partnerships that enable farmers, cooperatives and agri-enterprises to excel.

“Through our collaboration with ASEAN-BAC Philippines and other stakeholders, we are helping turn shared priorities into scalable, long-term solutions for a more resilient ASEAN food system,” Ortiz added.

During the event, the state-run bank joined officials in a broader multi-sector partnership to formalize on-the-ground initiatives designed to enhance agricultural productivity, uplift farmer welfare and expand market linkages.

Among the key items discussed was the ASEAN Food Security Alliance policy paper, which serves as a vital reference point for dialogue on urgent regional challenges, ranging from supply chain constraints and climate risks to the need for more integrated, investment-driven solutions.

The bank’s net income surged by 24 percent to P43.98 billion in 2025. Landbank remitted P32.4 billion in dividends to the national government last year, up by 0.7 percent from P32.12 billion in 2024.