Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced its commitment to ensuring that the PHP6.793 trillion national budget, aimed at strengthening the agriculture sector in the Philippines, will directly benefit farmers and fishers. In a statement, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. expressed his intention to scrutinize the approved funding, highlighting its potential to enhance local food production and secure long-term food security.
According to Philippines News Agency, Tiu Laurel emphasized the necessity of careful examination to guarantee that farmers and fishers, along with consumers and other key stakeholders across the value chain, reap the benefits of the 2026 General Appropriations Act. He also pointed out the importance of prioritizing ongoing reforms, including efforts in food security, post-harvest support and modernization, climate adaptability, and resolving logistic challenges.
Tiu Laurel remarked, "Public spending must translate into tangible benefits on the ground, not remain on paper." The DA was reportedly among the agencies receiving budget reallocations from the flood control funds of the Department of Public Works and Highways to ensure support for farmers and fishers.
Significant highlights of the budget include additional support for the expanded 'Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na' program, a PHP20 billion fund for the newly-enacted Animal Industry Competitiveness Act, a PHP33 billion allocation for farm-to-market roads (FMR) construction, and a PHP30 billion Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF).
