Manila: Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Friday assured continuous efforts to protect the productivity of sugar and other agricultural sectors in the Philippines. The Department of Agriculture (DA) made the assurance as some farmer representatives sought possible government intervention in case tensions in the Middle East prompt supply disruptions or price surges in petroleum-based agricultural inputs.
According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized the department's commitment to ensuring a stable supply of fuel and fertilizer, as well as other inputs, not only for sugar farmers but for all Filipino farmers and fisherfolk. This commitment is crucial as fuel demand in the sugar industry surges during peak harvest times, given its essential role in harvesting cane, transporting produce to sugar mills, and preparing for the upcoming planting season and irrigation systems.
Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona highlighted the urgency of the situation by seeking the help of Secretary Tiu Laurel to address the challenges faced by sugar farmers due to the Middle East conflict. He urged the Department of Energy (DOE) and other government agencies to intervene and find solutions.
In response to these challenges, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering (BAFE) are preparing to distribute PHP100 million in fuel subsidies to eligible farmers and fishers across the country within March. Each eligible farmer will receive PHP5,000, while fishers will get PHP3,000 each.
Additionally, the agency is considering utilizing nearly PHP100 million from its unused fuel subsidy fund from 2023 to 2025. Furthermore, discussions are underway to potentially tap into the PHP10-billion fund under the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF) program, which is typically used to provide cash aid during times of calamity and is scheduled for release during the second to third quarter of the year.
