Agriculture stands as the primary occupation in the Philippines, serving as a significant source of livelihood for a substantial portion of its workforce.
The agricultural sector is crucial to the Philippine economy, directly supporting between 25 to 30 percent of the nation's labor force. This sector is diverse, encompassing four main sub-sectors that contribute to the daily lives and economy of the archipelago.
Key Components of Philippine Agriculture
The broad scope of agriculture in the Philippines includes:
- Crops: Cultivation of various crops is a fundamental aspect, providing staple foods and export products.
- Livestock: Raising animals for meat, dairy, and other products is an important part of the livelihood for many.
- Poultry: The rearing of domestic fowl, particularly chickens, for eggs and meat, contributes significantly to food security and income.
- Fisheries: Given that the Philippines is an archipelago composed of 7,641 islands, fishing and aquaculture are vital occupations, harnessing the abundant marine and aquatic resources.
These sub-sectors collectively form the backbone of the main occupation, highlighting the country's reliance on its natural resources and the direct engagement of a considerable segment of its population in these activities for their sustenance and economic well-being.