Agriculture Secretary Francisco P.  Tiu Laurel, Jr.  warmly received Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) officials led by President Jovy C. Bernabe during a courtesy call cum briefing on the status of the agency on Friday, 24 May 2024.     

The meeting occurred a few days after President Marcos ordered the transfer of  PCIC from the aegis of the Department of Finance (DOF) to the Department of Agriculture (DA). The presidential directive was contained in  Executive Order No. 60 issued on 13 May 2024 and titled “Reorganizing the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation and Transferring its Attachment from the Department of Finance  to the Department of Agriculture.”   

In his briefing,  Bernabe highlighted the agency’s significant milestones,  particularly the continuous growth of insurance coverage among farmers and fisherfolk, and using technology to speed up insurance processes, including the checkless payment of claims. He also reported on the current year’s plan and targets and accomplishments on these plans so far,  including swift indemnification for those affected by the El Niño. 

Bernabe also described the road ahead for the agency, marked by more intensive use of  digital technology to speed up insurance administration and expanding  insurance products and services.   

Secretary Tiu Laurel expressed appreciation for the work the agency is doing and directed the PCIC to enhance further its products and services for the benefit of the small farmers and fishers in the country. 

Secretary Tiu Laurel was joined by Atty. Asis G. Perez, Agriculture Undersecretary for Policy, Planning, and Regulations.

Atty. Bernabe was accompanied by Business Development and Marketing Department  Manager Israel de la Cruz,  Actuarial Research and Product Valuation Department OIC Arvin Jasper Adan and Technical Assistant Arbi Mari Dela Cruz.