Roberto Sebastian

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Roberto "Bobot" Sison Sebastian (May 2, 1944 – July 23, 2012) was a Filipino businessman and government official who served as Secretary of the Department of Agriculture from 1992 to 1996 under President Fidel V. Ramos. Born in Manila, he studied at Ateneo de Manila University and the University of California, Davis, and built his career in the banana industry, leading Marsman (MEPI) banana plantations from 1976 to 1992 and again from 1996 to 2002 as president and CEO. He was married to Melba Erum Regis since August 8, 1970, and they had three children.

As agriculture secretary, he introduced the Key Production Approach (KPA), which formed the basis of the Medium-Term Agricultural Development Plan (MTADP) to strengthen Philippine farming for global competition. After leaving the department, he served as Special Envoy for Agriculture to the World Trade Organization from 1996 to 1997. He led or participated in various industry groups, including the Philippine Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA).

Sebastian died on July 23, 2012 in Makati at age 68 from a heart attack. His remains lay in state at Heritage Park in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, before being flown to Davao City, where he was laid to rest.