MANILA – Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr. has welcomed the recommendations from the private sector on modernization, increased productivity and food security through agricultural infrastructure and mechanization.
In a news release on Monday, the Department of Agriculture (DA) reported that regional agricultural and fisheries councils have gathered in its offices in Quezon City to submit their recommendations to Tiu-Laurel.
The councils came up with solutions to issues affecting the production of rice; fish and other aquatic resources; poultry and livestock; corn and feed crops; and high value crops including rubber, fiber crops and coconut.
They recommended the establishment of cold storage facilities for vegetables, including onions, as well as laboratories for biosecurity concerns; local nurseries and seed banks to ensure high quality planting materials and seeds; inland fisheries and hatcheries in upland areas; and data center for timely agricultural statistics.
They also suggested the construction of farm-to-market roads or other modes for faster movement of agricultural products and more irrigation facilities.
Other recommendations that Tiu-Laurel have received include conversion of rice competitive enhancement funds to rice price subsidy; mechanization of farm processes, including those for high value crops and fiber; widening and intensification of soil testing to optimize land use and productivity; revival of direct farmer linkage to market via Kadiwa centers; timely release of hybrid seed and fertilizer interventions; implementation of the higher biofuel blend to help the coconut industry; and creation of a Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture.
After the meeting with the regional councils, Tiu-Laurel said the recommendations provided a clearer perspective on how to pursue agricultural modernization as the DA’s 10-point agenda is being finalized.
“More infrastructures, including warehouses, seaports, food terminals, and roads, will be built to help bring down the cost of food when they reach consumers. The DA is also working towards digitalization and a thorough review of the minimum access volume to rationalize food importation,” he added.
He also pledged to find funds needed to substantially address all the issues and recommendations submitted by agricultural and fisheries councils, citing that agriculture accounts for four in every 10 jobs in the country, and a dramatic improvement in the farm sector could generate more jobs and lead to faster economic growth. (PNA)