Occidental Mindoro

The agricultural sector in Occidental Mindoro remains a cornerstone of the province’s economy, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of various challenges. In 2023, the province achieved a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of ₱54.59 billion, marking a 3.9% increase from the previous year, with agriculture, forestry, and fishing contributing significantly to this growth.

Rice cultivation continues to be a primary agricultural activity. In 2024, palay production reached 304,285 metric tons, harvested from 74,629 hectares, resulting in an average yield of 4.08 metric tons per hectare . This steady performance underscores the province’s commitment to rice self-sufficiency and food security. Corn production also plays a vital role in the province’s agriculture. In 2023, Occidental Mindoro produced 99,390 metric tons of corn, accounting for 79.3% of the MIMAROPA region’s total corn output. High-value crops, such as onions, have seen significant development. In 2023, the municipality of Sablayan produced 3,210 metric tons of onions from 321 hectares, involving 244 farmers.

The fisheries sector in Occidental Mindoro is a vital component of the province’s economy and food security, encompassing both marine and inland fishing activities. In 2023, the province’s commercial fisheries production experienced a significant decline, recording 1,238.01 metric tons—a 59.2% decrease from the previous year’s 3,035.64 metric tons. Despite this downturn, Occidental Mindoro still contributed 21.1% to the MIMAROPA region’s total commercial fisheries output, ranking second after Palawan. ​Conversely, inland fisheries demonstrated remarkable growth. In 2023, production surged by 114.4%, reaching 482.30 metric tons compared to the previous year. This increase underscores the potential of inland water bodies, such as lakes and rivers, in bolstering the province’s fish supply.​

The Department of Agriculture’s Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program has been actively implemented in Occidental Mindoro, aiming to uplift marginalized farming communities through various agricultural interventions. One significant initiative involved the distribution of agricultural inputs and equipment to local farmers. For instance, the Samahan ng Magsasaka ng Ambil received 600 liters of NPK and micronutrient liquid fertilizers, a hermetic storage cocoon, a hand tractor with complete accessories, and a pump and engine. Similarly, the Samahan ng Magsasaka ng Balikyas benefited from 500 liters of fertilizers, 50 bags of hybrid corn seeds, a hand tractor, and a pump and engine. Additionally, 25 heads of cattle were awarded to the Samahan ng Magsasaka ng Bulacan, supporting 62 beneficiaries engaged in livestock farming.