Northern samar: Northern Samar 2nd District Representative Edwin Ongchuan pledged to spearhead initiatives that will enable the province to benefit from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s comprehensive agricultural and coconut development plan, highlighted in his fourth State of the Nation Address.
According to Philippines News Agency, Ongchuan emphasized that the President's announcement presents a significant opportunity for the people of Northern Samar, who primarily rely on agriculture for their livelihood. Ongchuan stated, "Our farmers deserve the support and resources to thrive, and this strategic initiative can transform our agricultural landscape. I am dedicated to ensuring that our local communities fully capitalize on these national programs, empowering them to secure a better future."
During his address, President Marcos committed to enhancing coconut production, livestock, and the salt industry nationwide. As part of this initiative, he proposed amendments to the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund. The President has also instructed the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Trade and Industry, and the Philippine Coconut Authority to expand seed farms and communal nurseries and improve the distribution of hybrid seedlings across the country.
These agencies have been tasked with exploring investment opportunities in the coconut industry and developing new products derived from coconuts. They will closely monitor the implementation of the revised Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan 2024-2028.
Ongchuan noted that this plan will act as a roadmap for national development, concentrating on social protection, capacity building, infrastructure, and other support programs aimed at improving the socio-economic status of Filipino coconut farmers. President Marcos issued Memorandum Circular 84, officially adopting the revised CFIDP, on May 21, 2025. The plan includes an additional budget allocation of PHP1 billion for planting and replanting initiatives and PHP2.5 billion for fertilization programs in 2025. The Philippine Coconut Authority aims to plant 100 million coconut trees by 2028, demonstrating a commitment to revitalizing the industry's future.
Ongchuan expressed readiness to embrace this opportunity in Northern Samar, stating, "By robustly engaging with these initiatives, we will work to ensure that our farmers thrive, thereby contributing to the overall economic growth of our province and the nation." A significant portion of Northern Samar's agricultural land is dedicated to coconut production (71.4 percent), followed by rice (19.4 percent), and abaca (five percent), with other crops including sugarcane, corn, and root crops.
