Governor Extends Agricultural Land Moratorium Exemption for Government Services

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has expanded the exemption from the agricultural land moratorium for government services, allowing more state-sponsored projects to proceed on protected farmlands. The move aims to facilitate infrastructure and public service initiatives without compromising food security. According to DA officials, the revised policy covers a broader range of government-led activities, including the construction of irrigation systems, farm-to-market roads, and other essential facilities. The exemption, initially limited to specific projects, now includes services directly benefiting agricultural communities. Critics, however, warn that the expansion may lead to land conversion and threaten long-term food production.