Senator Imee Marcos warned that if agriculture does not become profitable, the Philippines may have to import all its food by 2030 because there are fewer farmers.
Her Senate Bill No. 1801 aims to double farmers’ income by consolidating farmlands, promoting contract farming, and encouraging agribusiness. She also proposed a bill seeking to ensure farmers receive a guaranteed income equal to the minimum wage in their areas.
“We are looking at ways in which the government can provide a guaranteed income for farmers. The government provides income support to various priority groups, so why can’t we provide the same to our farmers?” said Marcos.
The senator also revived the Kadiwa program, allowing farmers and fisherfolk to sell directly to consumers to lower prices. The program also provides trucks and equipment to local governments and cooperatives.
She likewise highlighted the success of the Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) program, which has helped 3,625 Filipinos since 2021 by introducing smart farming and export opportunities.
Despite a drop in the unemployment rate, the Philippine Statistics Authority said the agriculture and fisheries sectors lost 1.67 million workers since 2023, and 51 million Filipinos are facing food insecurity.IMT
