The Philippine Agriculture and Fisheries Biotechnology Program (DA Biotech Program) was created in 2000 by virtue of Republic Act No. 8435, otherwise known as “The Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997”, and the support from the United States Public Law 480 Food for Peace Program.

The primary goal of the Program is to offer technical support in addressing two main issues identified by the Department of Agriculture (DA) that need to be resolved using agricultural biotechnology in the country:

1. The lack of policy and regulatory framework for the commercialization of agricultural biotechnology products, as well as insufficient support for infrastructure and human resources; and
2. Inadequate funding, lack of project focus, and insufficient facilities and infrastructure support are hindering the significant potential of biotech research, development, and extension in the country.

While recognizing the potential of biotechnology in addressing these issues, the Program aims to promote national competitiveness while ensuring the safety of humans, animals, and the environment, including biodiversity.