The Department of Agriculture is the principal agency of the Philippine government responsible for the promotion of agricultural and fisheries development and growth. In pursuit of this, it provides the policy framework that directs public investments and, in partnership with local government units (LGUs), provides the support services necessary to make agriculture and fisheries, and agri-based enterprises profitable and to help spread the benefits of development to the poor, particularly those in the rural areas.

As stipulated in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2011-2016, Chapter 4, Competitive and Sustainable Agriculture and Fisheries Sector, the agriculture and fisheries sector provides food and vital raw materials for the rest of the economy. As the sector grows and modernizes, it releases surplus labor to the industry and services sectors. Rising productivity and efficiency in the sector are critical in maintaining the affordability of food and purchasing power, especially among the poor. The sector's development is therefore vital in achieving inclusive growth and poverty reduction as well as attaining the targets under the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

MDGs are the world's time-bound and quantified targets for addressing extreme poverty in its many dimensions-income poverty, hunger, disease, lack of adequate shelter, and exclusion-while promoting gender equality, education, and environmental sustainability.

Mandate
 The Department is the government agency responsible for the promotion of agricultural development by providing the policy framework, public investments, and support services needed for domestic and export-oriented business enterprises.

In the fulfillment of this mandate, it shall be the primary concern of the Department to improve farm income and generate work opportunities for farmers, fishermen and other rural workers.  It shall encourage people's  participation in agricultural development through sectoral representation in agricultural policy-making bodies so that the policies, plans and programs of the Department are formulated and executed to satisfy their needs.

It shall also use a bottom-up self-reliant farm system approach that will emphasize social justice, equity, productivity and sustainability in the use of agricultural resources. 

Vision
 A modernized smallholder agriculture and fisheries; a diversified rural economy that is dynamic, technologically advanced and internationally competitive.  Its transformation is guided by the sound practices of resource sustainability, the principles of social justice, and a strong private sector participation. 

Mission
 To help and empower the farming and fishing communities and the private sector to produce enough, accessible and affordable food for every Filipino and a decent income for all.