Press Release
June 6, 2009

ANGARA EYES MORE FUNDING AND SUPPORT FOR AGRI
Call for long-term agri investment

Senator Edgardo J. Angara today reiterated his call for more investment in agriculture as parts of the country enter its rice planting season this June.

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization estimates Filipinos eat an average of more than 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of rice each per year. Also, the country has continually faced the problem of high food cost, and, it has the highest food prices among the ASEAN countries.

In order to address the needs of the country, especially since the Filipinos are very accustomed of eating rice the government has been steadily considering the importation of rice to meet the demands of our people.

"This spells bad news especially during the toughest times where the country is experiencing not only financial but also health crisis that is damaging our economy as a result of incapacitated labor force from killer diseases," said Angara who formerly chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food.

It is but imperative for government to step in and be more aggressive. "We are spending billions of resources which otherwise could be allocated to long-term investments to boost our agricultural productivity. Our failure to initiate a long-term and focused effort to boost agricultural productivity could result to more poverty and widespread hunger," added Angara.

The government budget for agricultural expenditures back in 2007 amounted to P35.55 billion, this was 8.16 percent lower than the previous year's level. In the same year, agricultural loans which added up to P560.04 billion increased by 9.94 percent. About 24 percent of the loans were utilized for production purposes.

Angara emphasized that the goals of the national economy are a more equitable distribution of opportunities, income and wealth; a sustained increase in the amount of goods and services produced by the nation for the benefit of the people; and an expanding productivity as the key to raising the quality of life

In light with his advocacy, Angara authored significant legislations in agriculture including the Agriculture Fisheries and Modernization Act (AFMA), a masterplan for agricultural modernization which other countries in Southeast Asia have adopted. This will strengthen and accelerate agricultural products hence raising the quality of life for all.

Angara, a former Department of Agriculture secretary, prodded the government to ensure RP's food security through long term investments on agriculture.

News Latest News Feed