DA to build P3-billion cold storage facilities for vegetables, crops

The Department of Agriculture (DA) said Monday it has allocated P3 billion for the establishment of 99 cold storage facilities that would reduce spoilage and wastage of fruits, vegetables, and high-value crops.

The construction of the mega-cold storage facilities is targeted to start this year and is expected to take around 18 to 22 months after awarding the contract, the DA said.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said, "By improving the cold chain infrastructure, we will strengthen the agricultural sector, reduce farm losses, extend the shelf life of agricultural products, stabilize supply and prices, and ensure food security."

Of the P3-billion budget, P1.5 billion is sourced from the unprogrammed funds in 2024 and the other half is part of DA's budget for 2025.

"The unprogrammed funds will be spent to build around 65 small or modular chiller-type cold storage facilities across the country and a large cold storage facility to be built in Camarines Sur," said Tiu Laurel.

Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind will be tapped for the power supply of the refrigerated warehouses.

Meanwhile, the 40-foot modular refrigerated warehouses will have a capacity of between 7 to 15 metric tons and are expected to operate within three months of construction.

The DA said the cold storage project is part of a comprehensive logistics master plan which also includes a robust road network, agricultural seaports, and an integrated cold chain network to streamline the distribution of agricultural products in the country. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/ VDV, GMA Integrated News