PBBM Firm On Bid To Enhance PH Agri Productivity, Lessen Reliance On Imports

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remains steadfast in his commitment and efforts to enhance the agricultural productivity of the Philippines and reduce the country's reliance on imports.

In his address at the 70th Founding Anniversary of the Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) held in Quezon City, the President emphasized that his administration will continue to prioritize the agricultural sector, which serves as the backbone of the Philippine economy. I Photo: Riziel Panogadia Facebook

In his address at the 70th Founding Anniversary of the Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) held in Quezon City, the President emphasized that his administration will continue to prioritize the agricultural sector, which serves as the backbone of the Philippine economy.

"I wish to reaffirm one of the top priorities of this administration, which is the enhancement of our agricultural productivity, the guarantee of our food supply, the affordability of our food supply, and our decreasing dependence on importation," the President stated.

He commended the efforts of the organization in elevating and empowering the voices of small farmers, fisherfolk, and rural workers in the country. He noted that this noble pursuit aligns with what his father and namesake, the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., believed in.

The President recalled how his father championed the cause of the FFF and expressed his unwavering support for them, emphasizing that they "shared a common goal of advancing social reform and rural development in the Philippines."

"Indeed, this is the kind of uplifting synergy that we in government anticipate from our private sector partners — who ardently champion social justice and actively contribute to our nation's socio-economic advancement," the President said.

He urged members of the FFF to carry on the legacy that his father initiated for the organization, which includes "pursuing policies that will support and protect the overall welfare of our farmers, fishers, manufacturers, and the consuming public."

The President expressed optimism that the administration can bolster the country's agri-fisheries sector with a substantial budget of PhP85.88 billion for 2023, as well as the proposed PhP92.40 billion allotment for the current year.

He emphasized his commitment to strengthening various associations and cooperatives "so that they can provide business and investment opportunities to their beneficiaries" in the Philippines.

The President highlighted that the department has allocated PhP4.73 billion for the investment in large-scale agriculture and fishery mechanization and modernization.

"This will definitely elevate the standard of living, improve the lives of the farmers and our fishers and that of their families...You have my assurance that the government is striving to implement efficient mechanization strategies to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure optimal yields at an affordable cost," President Marcos said.

He added, "Another priority is to increase the exportation of our agricultural products, which has been an essential driver of the competitiveness of our economy."

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