Philippine agricultural output fell 5% YoY in Q3, the largest decline on record
since 1999, adding pressure to the economy. Rice production dropped 17.8% YoY to
3.0 mln tonnes, hit by disrupted monsoon rains. Agriculture minister Francisco
Tiu Laurel said El Nifio has altered rainfall patterns and could worsen drought,
and high fertilizer costs likely contributed. He expects agricultural output to
remain weak this quarter.