MANILA — Senator Francis Pangilinan is urging the government to ramp up support for domestic biofertilizer production, citing risks to global agricultural supply chains due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Pangilinan made the call following a visit to the AgriSpecialist, Inc. (ASI) Bio N Manufacturing Plant in Santa Rosa, Laguna, a facility that produces biofertilizer locally using modern technology.

The senator warned that ongoing conflict in the Middle East has disrupted key supply routes and contributed to instability in the global fertilizer market, posing added pressure on farmers already grappling with high production costs.

“We must reduce our dependence on imported chemical fertilizers. Hindi dapat sa tuwing may sigalot sa Middle East at krisis sa enerhiya at langis, ang ating mga magsasaka, mangingisda, at mamimili ang unang-unang natatamaan. Gutom at kahirapan ang magiging resulta kapag patuloy tayong magiging vulnerable sa mga sitwasyon na ito,” the lawmaker said.

“By investing in and promoting biofertilizer production, we not only cushion ourselves from global supply shocks but also empower our agricultural sector to become more resilient and sustainable,” he added.

Biofertilizers, which are derived from beneficial microorganisms, are considered a more affordable and environmentally sustainable alternative to chemical-based fertilizers.

Pangilinan said increasing local production could help stabilize fertilizer prices, enhance soil quality, and boost crop yields over time.

He highlighted Bio N, a microbial biofertilizer developed by the University of the Philippines Los Baños, which has been shown to reduce the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers by 30% to 50%, helping address the ongoing urea supply and cost concerns.

Researchers noted that this biofertilizer variant can improve crop yields and produce healthier corn and vegetables, while also strengthening soil health and sustainability. It can help plants remain resilient during drought and pest exposure, and reduce the incidence of rice tungro and corn earworm infestations.

The senator also called on government agencies, including the Department of Agriculture, to expand research efforts, provide incentives for local producers, and support farmer training on biofertilizer use.

He further encouraged partnerships between the public and private sectors to accelerate innovation and ensure wider access to biofertilizers nationwide.

“Now more than ever, we must prioritize long-term solutions that protect both our farmers’ livelihoods and our nation’s food supply,” he said.