THE country needs to invest P500 billion annually for at least five years to revitalize the agriculture sector, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said, adding that this includes the budget for the National Irrigation Administration. The proposed budget aims to address the sector’s vulnerabilities, which were exacerbated by El Niño and other climate change impacts. Laurel said the proposed budget would cover programs and projects for crop insurance, modernization, irrigation, and agricultural infrastructure, among others.
“We need to invest in making our agriculture sector more resilient and competitive, and this requires a significant and sustained financial commitment,” Laurel said. He added that the proposed budget would also support research and development for climate-resilient crops and farming techniques.
The Philippines, an archipelagic nation, is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and changes in rainfall patterns. These impacts have a direct bearing on the agriculture sector, which is a major source of livelihood for millions of Filipinos.
Laurel said the proposed P500-billion annual investment would be crucial in ensuring food security and improving the incomes of farmers and fisherfolk. He also highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving these goals, emphasizing that the government cannot do it alone.
“We need to work together with the private sector, local government units, and other stakeholders to create a more robust and sustainable agriculture sector,” Laurel said. He expressed optimism that with the right investments and collaborations, the Philippines can overcome the challenges facing its agriculture sector and achieve its full potential.
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