Quezon city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday pledged to step up government efforts and intensify programs to attain food security. In his fourth State of the Nation Address, Marcos said his administration is focused on providing assistance to farmers and fisherfolk who play crucial roles in increasing food production and ensuring economic stability.
According to Philippines News Agency, since the start of Marcos' administration, more than eight and a half million farmers and fisherfolk have received assistance. President Marcos emphasized that his government will further intensify these programs to reach more individuals. The government's aim is to boost the production of key agricultural products, including rice, corn, pineapple, banana, mango, coffee, cacao, calamansi, sugarcane, onion, and garlic.
Marcos highlighted the provision of thousands of farm machinery and facilities that will benefit farmers and fishers. Plans are also underway to construct more Rice Processing Systems and distribute fiberglass boats. He explained that these initiatives support farmers and fishers from preparation, planting, harvesting, transportation, to selling. Additionally, thousands of kilometers of farm-to-market roads have already been built, with more on the way, and extensive irrigation projects are being executed across the nation.
The President noted that the Department of Science and Technology is employing modern farming methods, including inter-cropping and off-season techniques. To address rising pork prices, the government plans to strengthen local production by distributing piglets and sows, constructing biosecure hog facilities, and continuing vaccination efforts against African swine fever.
Marcos also outlined a major initiative to plant 15 million hybrid and high-quality coconut seedlings across the country, acknowledging the coconut industry's significance to millions of Filipinos. The ultimate goal is to plant 100 million coconut trees nationwide. To further bolster the coconut industry, Marcos will seek amendments to the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act to better cater to farmers' needs.
