Land conversion ban lifted for government housing, RE projectsIn a March 3 circular, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. authorized the processing and issuance of land-use reclassification certificates for these projects, provided they are certified by the appropriate authorities. MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has exempted government-backed housing and renewable energy (RE) projects from the farmlands conversion moratorium, which remains in effect until June. The exemption applies to RE developments endorsed by the Department of Energy or other authorized agencies as well as socialized housing projects implemented or certified by the National Housing Authority. This comes after the DA imposed a six-month moratorium in January on new land reclassification applications amid concerns over the rapid conversion of farmlands. The move was meant to reassess regulatory framework, ensure policy consistency and strengthen oversight against excessive conversion driven by urban development and infrastructure projects.

Source: Philippine Star March 13, 2026 08:14 UTC