Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Wednesday its decision to exempt renewable energy and government socialized housing projects from the existing moratorium on land-use reclassifications. This strategic move aims to facilitate the development of essential infrastructure while maintaining the broader freeze on converting farmlands.

According to Philippines News Agency, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized that the exemption reflects the administration's effort to promote renewable energy and support government-led housing projects. Secretary Laurel explained that by allowing specific exceptions to the land-use reclassification moratorium, the government hopes to advance critical energy and housing initiatives without compromising the broader goal of preserving farmland for food security.

The exemption is detailed in Department Circular No. 1, signed by Tiu Laurel on January 5. It permits the processing and issuance of land-use reclassification certificates for projects related to green energy and socialized housing, contingent upon certification from relevant authorities. Specifically, renewable energy projects must receive endorsements from the Department of Energy (DOE) or other authorized agencies. Similarly, socialized housing projects must be implemented or certified by the National Housing Authority (NHA) or cleared by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

Tiu Laurel clarified that only projects with the necessary certification qualify for exemption from the moratorium. All other requests for land-use reclassification remain on hold as the DA continues to review policies to ensure long-term food security.