AGRI PARTY-LIST

Advocacy

Manoy Wilbert Lee emphasizes food security as a national security priority.

AGRI TO DA: FAST-TRACK BUILDING P3-B WORTH OF COLD STORAGES, IMPLEMENT COMPREHENSIVE SUPPLY MONITORING TO AVOID PRICE SURGE

AGRI TO DA: FAST-TRACK BUILDING P3-B WORTH OF COLD STORAGES, IMPLEMENT COMPREHENSIVE SUPPLY MONITORING TO AVOID PRICE SURGE AGRI Party-list and Senatorial aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee welcomed the initiative of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to construct around 99 cold storage facilities for fruits and vegetables nationwide with a total budget of P3 billion, as he renewed his call to implement a more comprehensive supply monitoring of agricultural products to avoid price surge. “Maganda ang inisyatibang ito ng DA, lalo pa’t matagal na natin itong panawagan. Bukod sa pangangalampag natin sa mga nakaraang budget deliberations na taasan o ipantay ang pondong inilalaan sa post-harvest facilities kabilang ang cold storages sa pre-harvest services, naghain din tayo ng panukalang batas para dagdagan ang suporta sa mga pasilidad na siguradong magpapataas sa kita ng mga magsasaka at local food producers,” AGRI Party-list said. “Malinaw din na mababalewala lang ang mga itatayong cold storages kung walang mahigpit at epektibong monitoring sa supply, at kung hindi pa rin masasampolan ang mga hoarders na walang konsensyang nagpapataas sa presyo ng bilihin, habang nagpapakasasa sa sobrang kita,” it added.  AGRI Party-list, principal author of Republic Act No. 12022 or the “Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law”, has been consistently pushing for legislative measures that will reduce the prices of food by providing additional support for the agricultural sector and protecting the livelihood of local food producers. Under its House Bill No. 3958 or the “Post-Harvest Facilities Support Act”, the DA, in cooperation with various government agencies including the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), shall provide farm equipment and machinery such as cold storages, dryers, threshers, and transport facilities to farmer cooperatives. Earlier, in connection with the looming declaration of Food Security Emergency in the country, AGRI stressed the importance of sufficient support for farmers saying, “Sang-ayon po tayo sa pagdedeklara ng food security emergency para mapagaan ang pasanin ng ating mga kababayan, pero naniniwala tayo na panandaliang solusyon lang ito.” “Bukod sa short-term solutions, dapat simulan na ang pagpapatupad ng long-term solutions para maging kumpleto ang suporta sa mga local food producers, at hindi na kailanganin pang magdeklara ng food security emergency sa hinaharap,” AGRI stated. “Food security is a national security issue. Dapat gawing prayoridad ang pangangalaga at suporta sa ating mga local food producers o ‘food security soldiers’ dahil nakasalalay sa kanila ang sapat na supply at murang pagkain. Dapat buhusan at paglaanan ito ng tiyak na pondo taon-taon, at siguruhin ang mabilis na implementasyon ng mga programa para maramdaman agad ng mga Pilipino ang benepisyong hatid nito,” it added. Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 27 Jan 2025 AGRI TO DA: FAST-TRACK BUILDING P3-B WORTH OF COLD STORAGES, IMPLEMENT COMPREHENSIVE SUPPLY MONITORING TO AVOID PRICE SURGE 18 Jan 2025 Better Transport Policy for Murang Pagkain: AGRI Party-list’s Vision 17 Jan 2025 Murang Pagkain: Strengthening Food Security Through Better Logistics Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

Wilbert Lee speaking at a policy briefing about food security.

Better Transport Policy for Murang Pagkain: AGRI Party-list’s Vision

Better Transport Policy for Murang Pagkain: AGRI Party-list’s Vision In its continuous mission to deliver murang pagkain to every Filipino household, the AGRI Party-list, led by Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Wilbert Lee, has proposed a groundbreaking initiative: opening the EDSA Busway to agricultural and food delivery vehicles during night hours. This plan not only addresses critical logistical challenges but also contributes significantly to food security and affordability. Addressing Key Challenges in Food Transport Traffic congestion in Metro Manila is one of the biggest barriers to delivering fresh, affordable food to urban areas. Delayed transportation of perishable goods often leads to spoilage, wastage, and higher costs for both suppliers and consumers. AGRI’s proposed solution, outlined in House Resolution No. 2162, aims to dedicate 10 PM to 5 AM for agricultural vehicles on the EDSA Busway, optimizing the delivery of essential goods. “Timely and efficient transport of agricultural products is crucial for reducing costs and ensuring the availability of murang pagkain,” AGRI emphasized. This resolution also prioritizes the needs of farmers and food producers, enabling them to maximize profits while reducing waste. Collaboration for Seamless Implementation The resolution emphasizes the importance of coordination with key government agencies, including the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). By working together, these agencies can develop a formal policy framework to regulate agricultural transport on the EDSA Busway while avoiding disruptions to public transportation services. AGRI also highlighted the need for consultations with agricultural and food industry stakeholders to address logistical bottlenecks. “Through inclusive consultations, we can identify challenges and solutions that benefit both producers and consumers,” AGRI stated. Wilbert Lee’s Commitment to Murang Pagkain Wilbert Lee, a staunch advocate for food security and agricultural development, sees this initiative as a vital step in supporting farmers, fisherfolk, and food producers. “When logistics work efficiently, everyone benefits—farmers earn more, consumers pay less, and food waste is minimized. Murang pagkain becomes achievable through practical and inclusive solutions,” Lee explained. The AGRI Party-list has consistently pushed for legislative measures that address rising food prices, including the recent filing of House Resolution No. 2158 to investigate tomato price surges and expose the role of hoarders and cartels in market manipulation. These actions underscore AGRI’s dedication to protecting consumers and producers alike. Leveraging Innovation for Food Security By opening the EDSA Busway to agricultural vehicles, the government can pave the way for innovative solutions in food logistics. The proposal ensures that perishable goods are prioritized, reducing spoilage and increasing the supply of fresh, affordable food in markets across Metro Manila. AGRI’s plan also encourages the use of modern technology and efficient systems to optimize supply chains. “Murang pagkain starts with a system that works for everyone—farmers, transport operators, and consumers,” AGRI emphasized. Murang Pagkain for Every Filipino The AGRI Party-list’s vision for murang pagkain aligns with its broader advocacy for food security and rural development. Opening the EDSA Busway to agricultural vehicles is just one of many initiatives aimed at addressing food supply challenges and reducing prices. “Murang pagkain, gawin na natin! Together, we can make affordable food a reality for every Filipino family,” AGRI concluded, urging swift government action to implement this transformative policy. #MurangPagkain #AgriculturePolicy #WilbertLee #FoodLogistics #SupportFarmers Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 18 Jan 2025 Better Transport Policy for Murang Pagkain: AGRI Party-list’s Vision 17 Jan 2025 Murang Pagkain: Strengthening Food Security Through Better Logistics 16 Jan 2025 Unrestricting EDSA Busway: A Step Towards Murang Pagkain Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

A Metro Manila market filled with affordable fresh food.

Murang Pagkain: Strengthening Food Security Through Better Logistics

Murang Pagkain: Strengthening Food Security Through Better Logistics The AGRI Party-list, led by Wilbert Lee, is spearheading efforts to ensure murang pagkain through an innovative proposal to open the EDSA Busway to agricultural and food delivery vehicles at night. By facilitating faster and more efficient food logistics, this initiative aims to enhance food security and reduce costs for consumers. House Resolution No. 2162: Addressing Traffic and Logistics Challenges Traffic congestion has long plagued Metro Manila, causing delays in the transport of perishable goods and contributing to food spoilage and higher prices. AGRI’s House Resolution No. 2162 proposes exclusive access to the EDSA Busway from 10 PM to 5 AM for agricultural vehicles, ensuring uninterrupted delivery of fresh produce and essential food items. “We need to guarantee timely delivery of agricultural goods to stabilize food prices and achieve food security. This is a critical step toward providing murang pagkain for every Filipino,” AGRI emphasized. Wilbert Lee: Advocating for Farmers and Consumers Wilbert Lee, AGRI Party-list’s Representative seeking a Senate seat, underscores the importance of reducing logistical barriers for farmers and fisherfolk. “When transport is efficient, costs go down, and food becomes affordable. Murang pagkain starts with a system that works for both producers and consumers,” Lee stated. Collaboration with Stakeholders AGRI’s proposal calls for consultations with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), LTFRB, MMDA, and other stakeholders to implement a coordinated system for agricultural transport. This ensures minimal disruption to public transport while maximizing benefits for food supply chains. Ensuring Affordable Food for All AGRI Party-list remains steadfast in its mission to reduce food prices. Through legislative efforts, such as the investigation into price surges and tackling hoarding practices, AGRI continues to advocate for murang pagkain. The EDSA Busway proposal aligns with AGRI’s vision to boost local food production, improve supply chains, and protect the livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolk. “Murang pagkain isn’t just a goal; it’s a commitment to every Filipino family,” AGRI concluded. #MurangPagkain #FoodSecurity #SupportFarmers #EfficientSupplyChain #AffordableFood Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 17 Jan 2025 Murang Pagkain: Strengthening Food Security Through Better Logistics 16 Jan 2025 Unrestricting EDSA Busway: A Step Towards Murang Pagkain 15 Jan 2025 Murang Pagkain, 'wag hulihin!AGRI PL to DOTr: OPEN EDSA BUSWAY FOR AGRI, FOOD DELIVERY VEHICLES AT NIGHT Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

Traffic congestion in Metro Manila showing the need for transport efficiency.

Unrestricting EDSA Busway: A Step Towards Murang Pagkain

Unrestricting EDSA Busway: A Step Towards Murang Pagkain AGRI Party-list, led by Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Wilbert Lee, is advocating for opening the EDSA Busway during night hours for agricultural and food delivery vehicles. This initiative addresses logistical barriers, reduces costs, and secures murang pagkain for Filipino families. Why Efficient Transport Matters Metro Manila’s notorious traffic congestion significantly hampers the timely delivery of perishable goods. This leads to food spoilage, waste, and increased prices for both producers and consumers due to lack of supply. By leveraging the EDSA Busway for agricultural deliveries during off-peak hours, AGRI’s proposal ensures that fresh food supplies reach markets efficiently and affordably. Under House Resolution No. 2162, AGRI suggests granting agricultural vehicles access to the EDSA Busway between 10 PM and 5 AM, including weekends and holidays. This dedicated timeframe prioritizes essential food deliveries while minimizing disruptions to public transportation. “Efficient transport will ensure timely deliveries, stabilize food prices, and secure murang pagkain,” said Wilbert Lee, emphasizing the critical role of effective logistics in achieving food security. Benefits for Farmers and Food Security The resolution highlights the importance of supporting farmers, fisherfolk, and food producers. Delays in transporting goods often result in financial losses for these essential contributors to the economy. By streamlining logistics, AGRI’s plan enables them to earn fair profits while ensuring consumers enjoy affordable, fresh food. “When logistics work efficiently, everyone benefits,” Lee added. “Farmers earn more, consumers pay less, and food waste is minimized. Murang pagkain becomes achievable through practical and inclusive solutions.” Collaborative Implementation To implement this policy effectively, AGRI calls for close collaboration with key agencies such as the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). Proper coordination ensures that agricultural vehicles can seamlessly integrate into the EDSA Busway system without causing disruptions to public transport operations. The resolution also emphasizes consultations with stakeholders in the agriculture and food sectors to identify and address logistical challenges. Such partnerships are critical to optimizing the food supply chain, especially in highly urbanized areas like Metro Manila. Addressing Price Manipulation and Market Hoarding In addition to this proposal, AGRI Party-list has been proactive in addressing other factors affecting food prices. Recently, AGRI filed House Resolution No. 2158 to investigate the sudden spike in tomato prices and expose the possible role of hoarders, cartels, and price manipulators. By tackling these issues head on, AGRI aims to protect both consumers and producers from exploitative practices. The EDSA Busway initiative complements these efforts by removing logistical barriers that inflate food prices. With improved transport systems, agricultural goods can reach markets more efficiently, reducing the opportunities for manipulation by middlemen. A Vision for Affordable Food AGRI’s strong advocacy for murang pagkain aligns with its commitment to food security and rural development. By empowering farmers, improving logistics, and reducing costs, the party-list envisions a future where affordable food is accessible to all Filipinos. “Murang pagkain starts with a system that works for everyone—farmers, transport operators, and consumers,” AGRI emphasized. “It’s not just a policy goal; it’s a commitment to the welfare of every Filipino family.” Murang Pagkain for All Filipinos The AGRI Party-list calls for swift government action to implement the EDSA Busway proposal. By prioritizing agricultural vehicles during off-peak hours, the policy ensures that fresh, affordable food reaches Filipino households without delay. “Together, we can make murang pagkain a reality for all,” AGRI concluded, urging stakeholders and policymakers to support this transformative initiative. Through collaborative efforts and strategic planning, the vision of affordable food can be achieved, uplifting lives and strengthening the nation’s agricultural sector.   #MurangPagkain #EDSAAccess #FoodTransport #SupportFarmers #AffordableFood Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 20 Jan 2025 Unrestricting EDSA Busway: A Step Towards Murang Pagkain 15 Jan 2025 Murang Pagkain, 'wag hulihin!AGRI PL to DOTr: OPEN EDSA BUSWAY FOR AGRI, FOOD DELIVERY VEHICLES AT NIGHT 06 Jan 2025 Dagdagan, hindi pabayaan!AGRI SEEKS PROBE ON THE CLOSURE OF SMALL-SCALE RICE, CORN MILLS IN 1K BARANGAYS Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

Manoy Wilbert Lee emphasizes food security as a national security priority.

Murang Pagkain, ‘wag hulihin!AGRI PL to DOTr: OPEN EDSA BUSWAY FOR AGRI, FOOD DELIVERY VEHICLES AT NIGHT

Murang Pagkain, ‘wag hulihin! AGRI PL to DOTr: OPEN EDSA BUSWAY FOR AGRI, FOOD DELIVERY VEHICLES AT NIGHT AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee has filed a measure urging the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to open and expand the EDSA busway during night hours for the use of agricultural and food delivery vehicles, to facilitate the efficient transport of essential supplies, promote food security and lower prices. AGRI Party-list pointed out that the transport of agricultural goods faces several challenges, particularly in Metro Manila, where traffic congestion hampers the timely arrival of perishable goods, leading to food wastage and increased costs for both suppliers and consumers. In filing House Resolution No. 2162, AGRI seeks to accommodate agricultural and food delivery vehicles, particularly those transporting perishable goods, from 10PM to 5AM, including Sundays and holidays, as a means of ensuring the prompt and efficient movement of essential food supplies into Metro Manila. “Through this, we can ensure the timely transport of fresh produce, meats, dairy, and other essential food items to Metro Manila and neighboring areas, which will help lower food prices and achieve food security,” AGRI said. According to the Resolution, such arrangements can be developed into a formal policy to ensure that all necessary measures are in place to regulate the entry of agricultural and food delivery vehicles and avoid potential disruptions to the primary function of the busway, including the proper coordination with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). “DOTr must facilitate consultations with agricultural and food industry stakeholders to further optimize the logistics of food supply chains and address issues related to food distribution within the National Capital Region. Gusto nating maipatupad ito para makatulong, at hindi maging dagdag na abala o pabigat sa lahat ng ating mga kababayan,” AGRI said. “Bukod sa dagdag na suporta sa ating mga magsasaka, mangingisda, at local food producers, kailangan nating maglatag at magpatupad ng mga hakbang para masiguro ang mabilis na biyahe ng produkto patungong merkado, na magpapababa sa presyo ng pagkain,” it added. AGRI Party-list also reiterated its advocacy for cheaper prices of food for the benefit of Filipinos saying, “Napakahalaga na mapagaan ang pasanin ng ating mga kababayan sa pamamagitan ng murang pagkain na maihahain sa kani-kanilang hapag-kainan, kaya lahat ng rason kung bakit nagmamahal ang mga ito ay dapat solusyunan agad.” AGRI Party-list has been consistently pushing for legislative measures that will reduce the prices of food in the market by providing additional support for the agricultural sector and protecting the livelihood of local food producers. AGRI recently filed House Resolution No. 2158 to investigate the sudden and drastic increase in the retail price of tomatoes, and determine the role of price manipulators, hoarders and cartels in the possible “artificial tomato crisis” causing the price hike. “Ang paniwala natin: Sa suporta sa agrikultura, panalo ang masa. Dapat nang mawala sa eksena at panagutin ang mga demonyo at kriminal na kumikitil sa ating ekonomiya, lalo na sa kabuhayan ng mga kababayan nating buong buhay na nagsisikap para sa pamilya at para may makain ang buong bansa,” AGRI stated. “Tungkulin ng gobyernong tiyakin na may sapat na proteksyon sa hanapbuhay ang ating mga magsasaka, mangingisda, at local food producers na itinuturing nating “food security soldiers” para mapataas ang lokal na produksyon, dumami ang supply sa merkado, at mapababa ang presyo ng pagkain at bilihin. Murang pagkain, gawin na natin!” it added. Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 15 Jan 2025 Murang Pagkain, 'wag hulihin!AGRI PL to DOTr: OPEN EDSA BUSWAY FOR AGRI, FOOD DELIVERY VEHICLES AT NIGHT 06 Jan 2025 Dagdagan, hindi pabayaan!AGRI SEEKS PROBE ON THE CLOSURE OF SMALL-SCALE RICE, CORN MILLS IN 1K BARANGAYS 13 Dec 2024 AGRI Party-list Advocates for Full Protection of Agriculture Budget in 2025 Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

AGRI Party-list Advocates for Full Protection of Agriculture Budget in 2025

AGRI Party-list Advocates for Full Protection of Agriculture Budget in 2025 The AGRI Party-list is rallying lawmakers in the Senate and House of Representatives to safeguard the agriculture sector’s budget as the Bicameral Conference Committee prepares to finalize the 2025 General Appropriations Bill. With the nation’s food security and rural livelihoods on the line, AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee emphasized the critical importance of maintaining sufficient funding for agriculture.“Cutting the budget for agriculture at this critical time would severely undermine our ability to achieve food security and support millions of farmers, fisherfolk, and local food producers. These are the ‘food security soldiers’ who sustain our nation’s food supply, and they deserve more, not less, support from the government,” Lee said. He stressed that investing in agriculture is essential not only for economic recovery but also for long-term national stability. The Bicameral Conference Committee, tasked with reconciling Senate and House versions of the ₱6.352-trillion National Budget, will convene next week. AGRI Party-list expressed concerns over the possible reduction in allocations for agriculture, highlighting the severe consequences of underfunding in the face of rising global food prices and intensifying climate change.“Reducing the agriculture budget is a step backward,” AGRI said in a statement. “This is not just about farmers; this is about safeguarding the country’s food supply from external shocks and ensuring the resilience of our local food systems. Cutting corners in agriculture funding could leave millions vulnerable to food insecurity.”#SupportOurFarmers #FoodSecurityPH #WiseLeadership Advocacy Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 08 Dec 2024 AGRI PL URGES SENATE, HREP TO PROTECT AGRI BUDGET FOR 2025 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

AGRI Party-list Urges Unity in Protecting Agriculture Budget for Filipino Farmers

AGRI Party-list Urges Unity in Protecting Agriculture Budget for Filipino Farmers As the Bicameral Conference Committee deliberates on the 2025 General Appropriations Bill, the AGRI Party-list has urged Congress to stand united in preserving the agriculture sector’s budget. AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee underscored the importance of prioritizing agriculture funding to ensure food security and improve the livelihoods of millions of farmers, fisherfolk, and food producers across the country. “Without sufficient investment in agriculture, we jeopardize not just the livelihood of millions but the nation’s food supply. If we are serious about having affordable food on every Filipino family’s table, agriculture must be a priority,” Lee said, stressing the importance of supporting rural communities that form the backbone of the country’s food production. AGRI Party-list warned that reduced allocations could undermine efforts to modernize the agriculture sector, leaving it vulnerable to rising food costs and external shocks. The group also criticized the continued underfunding of agriculture, noting that it remains a small fraction of the national budget despite its critical role in national development. “Providing adequate funding for agriculture will not only ensure higher incomes for food producers but also incentivize them to boost production. More supply in the market leads to lower prices, benefitting the entire nation,” AGRI explained. The group called on lawmakers to recognize the broader implications of their budget decisions, emphasizing that investing in agriculture is a win for all Filipinos. “Sa suporta sa agrikultura, panalo ang masa!” AGRI concluded. #FarmersFirst #FoodSecurityNow #WiseAdvocacy Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 08 Dec 2024 AGRI PL URGES SENATE, HREP TO PROTECT AGRI BUDGET FOR 2025 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

AGRI Party-list Warns of Long-Term Risks from Cuts to Agriculture Budget

AGRI Party-list Advocates for Full Protection of Agriculture Budget in 2025 The AGRI Party-list has issued a strong appeal to lawmakers in both chambers of Congress to ensure the agriculture sector’s budget remains protected as deliberations over the 2025 General Appropriations Bill move forward. According to AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee, insufficient funding for agriculture could lead to long-term challenges for food security and the livelihoods of millions of Filipinos.“Investing in agriculture isn’t just about immediate support; it’s about future-proofing our food systems against crises like rising global food prices and climate change. Our farmers, fisherfolk, and food producers play a vital role in our nation’s stability, and reducing their support at this time is unacceptable,” Lee said. AGRI highlighted that the Department of Agriculture’s proposed ₱500 billion budget was slashed to less than half, leaving critical issues such as low productivity, outdated infrastructure, and a lack of post-harvest facilities unaddressed. “Our current allocation falls far short of what’s needed to meet the demands of our local food producers,” the group stated, emphasizing the disparity between agriculture’s potential and its share in the national budget. The group called on the Bicameral Conference Committee to prioritize food security, pointing out that increased agricultural funding would benefit all Filipinos by stabilizing food prices and boosting supply. “This is not just about the farmers; it’s about every Filipino family that depends on affordable and accessible food,” AGRI stressed.#AgricultureBudget2025 #FoodSecurity #WiseMoves Advocacy Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 08 Dec 2024 AGRI PL URGES SENATE, HREP TO PROTECT AGRI BUDGET FOR 2025 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion

AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion The AGRI Party-list is urging the Senate to fast-track the passage of House Bill No. 7387 or the “Essential Crop Insurance Act,” a measure aimed at expanding crop insurance to better protect farmers from financial losses caused by natural calamities. The bill, which passed the House on its third reading in March 2023, has yet to be acted upon in the Senate. Under the proposed measure, the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) will offer coverage for a broader range of agricultural commodities, including livestock, aquaculture, and agroforestry assets. “Farmers, as our ‘food security soldiers,’ deserve government support to ease their burdens,” AGRI Party-list emphasized. AGRI also called for more proactive measures, such as mobile offices in typhoon-hit areas, to make crop insurance enrollment accessible, saying “Government services should be brought to farmers instead of waiting for them to seek help.” The party-list underscored the measure’s importance in achieving food security by stabilizing farmers’ incomes and incentivizing higher production, ultimately reducing food prices and benefiting all Filipinos. #FarmersFirst #CropInsuranceNow #WiseAdvocacy Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 18 Nov 2024 AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Wilbert Lee: Supporting Farmers is Best Solution to Curb Inflation Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation

Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation Amid rising inflation and the recent rice tariff cut, AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Manoy” T. Lee calls for stronger government support for local farmers. Speaking at the Kapihan sa QC forum, Lee expressed concerns over how reduced tariffs on rice imports will impact local producers, emphasizing that while importation may temporarily lower prices, it risks driving farmers into debt. Lee stressed that boosting support for local farmers is the key to addressing the long-term issue of high food prices in the Philippines. The Bicolano solon underscored the importance of self-sufficiency in food production, warning of the risks associated with relying too heavily on imports. “Hindi tayo pwedeng nakaasa lang sa importation,” Lee stated, pointing out that global conflicts, disasters, and climate change could disrupt food exports at any moment. Supporting farmers will not only sustain their livelihoods but also reduce the nation’s dependence on imports, which can be unpredictable. Lee’s call for agricultural support includes his Cheaper Rice Act, which would require the Department of Agriculture (DA) to purchase local palay at a price P5-P10 above the standard farmgate price. This measure would both increase farmers’ income and eventually help lower rice prices for consumers. “Naniniwala tayo na mas epektibo nating mapapababa ang presyo ng pagkain sa dagdag na suporta sa ating mga magsasaka!” he added. #SupportLocalFarmers #FoodSecurityPH #WilbertLeeAdvocacy Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 01 Nov 2024 Cong. Wilbert Lee: “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka” 31 Oct 2024 Cong. Wilbert Lee Champions Bigger Budget for Agriculture in 2025 30 Oct 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024