Philippines to Showcase Horticultural Heritage at 2027 Expo in Japan

The Philippines is set to participate in the Green X Expo 2027, scheduled to take place in Yokohama, Japan, from March 19 to September 26, 2027. This initiative, announced by the Department of Agriculture (DA) during the Pagsibol 2026: Philippine Horticulture and Urban Agriculture Summit, aims to expand the country's horticultural exports, attract investments, and showcase advancements in climate-resilient agriculture.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the importance of this event, stating that they want to show their horticultural heritage, biodiversity, and green innovations, as well as what Filipino ingenuity and bayanihan can do. The Philippine Pavilion will be themed “Bukás: Gardens of the Bayanihan Spirit,” reflecting the country's rich agricultural traditions and communal values.

“We want to show our horticultural heritage, biodiversity, and green innovations—and what Filipino ingenuity and bayanihan can do.”Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., Agriculture Secretary

The pavilion will prominently feature native plants such as the waling-waling orchid, alongside premium tropical fruits and other high-value horticultural products that have potential appeal in Japanese and international markets. The designs will draw inspiration from iconic Filipino landscapes, including the Banaue Rice Terraces and Chocolate Hills, as well as cultural festivals like Pahiyas, Panagbenga, and Dinagyang.

In an effort to connect local farmers, agricultural entrepreneurs, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with international buyers, the DA plans to conduct product exhibitions and business matching activities during the expo. Junibert De Sagun, Director of the DA's Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service, noted that the Philippines boasts a strong market position in fruit exports, yet remains underrepresented in ornamental horticulture. Through their participation in Green X Expo 2027, they want to highlight the significant potential for growth and diversification in this sector.

“The Philippines boasts a strong market position in fruit exports, yet remains underrepresented in ornamental horticulture.”Junibert De Sagun, DA Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service Director

The expo, themed “Scenery of the Future for Happiness,” aims to foster a deeper connection between humanity and nature, encouraging sustainable practices in horticulture. It is expected to feature various interactive experiences and exhibitions that showcase both traditional and modern agricultural techniques.

“For us, this is more than expo participation; it is a celebration of friendship, sustainability, innovation, and the shared belief that agriculture is not only about the sustenance of our people.”Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., Agriculture Secretary

The Philippines has established strong agricultural ties with Japan, which is its second-largest market for agricultural exports, amounting to approximately $1.1 billion in 2023. Secretary Laurel remarked that for them, this is more than expo participation; it is a celebration of friendship, sustainability, innovation, and the shared belief that agriculture is not only about the sustenance of their people.

As the Philippines prepares for this significant event, it aims to leverage its participation to create tangible opportunities for its horticultural sector, showcasing its commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and innovation in a climate-vulnerable nation.