Kalibo, Aklan
October 6, 2023

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reiterated the Administration’s firm commitment to cushion the impact of increasing food commodity prices, increase farming production and provide the farmers with all the support they need, as he led the distribution of premium quality rice and other government assistance in Kalibo, Aklan.

In his keynote address, the President cited several measures being implemented to address challenges in the agriculture sector and strengthen food security. These measures include the provision of facilities such as machines, seeds and tools for the farmers, as well as the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) allocation of over PhP30 million worth of assistance for those involved in swine and oyster production in the area.

Furthermore, President Marcos Jr. shared his recent directive to release at least PhP13 billion for the Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) Program to help farmers sustain their productivity. He also emphasized that the government is prioritizing the sector’s preparedness in times of crisis. As part of these efforts, continuous monitoring of red tide in the coastal waters of Aklan is being conducted, even after it has been officially declared as cleared.

Following the lifting of Executive Order No. 39, which implemented mandated price ceilings on rice, the Chief Executive also urged his countrymen to join the fight against smugglers, hoarders and manipulators in the sector. He reassured the public that all confiscated agricultural goods will be turned over to the authorities for distribution to the most underprivileged communities.

“Sa Bagong Pilipinas na ating binubuo, hindi po tayo titigil hanggang [hindi] nabubuwag ang lahat ng mga sindikatong ito—at hanggang hindi maibalik sa normal ang mababang presyo ng ating mga bilihin,” he expressed.

“Sa ating pagdadamayan at tiwala sa isa’t-isa, tiyak na magtatagumpay tayo sa pagkamit ng masagana, panatag, at matatag na buhay para sa lahat ng mga Pilipino,” he ended in his message.

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