AGRI PARTY-LIST

Food Security

Cold storage facility for agricultural products, backed by Manoy Wilbert Lee’s P3B initiative.

Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring

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Manoy Wilbert Lee Pushes for P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Long-Term Food Security Solutions The Department of Agriculture (DA) has announced the construction of 99 cold storage facilities nationwide with a P3 billion budget. Manoy Wilbert Lee, AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant, welcomed this move but stressed that supply monitoring and anti-hoarding measures are essential for real impact. Manoy Wilbert Lee: Cold Storage is Only Part of the Solution According to Manoy Wilbert Lee, the lack of cold storage facilities has long been a challenge for local farmers. “This is a great initiative, but it must go hand-in-hand with strict supply monitoring. If hoarders and price manipulators continue unchecked, these facilities will not prevent food price surges,” he warned. Post-Harvest Support Act: Expanding Agricultural Infrastructure Through House Bill No. 3958, also known as the Post-Harvest Facilities Support Act, the DA, together with DPWH, DAR, and DTI, will provide cold storage, dryers, threshers, and transport equipment to farmer cooperatives. This initiative aligns with Manoy Wilbert Lee’s long-term vision for a stronger agricultural sector, reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring better income for local food producers. Preventing Food Hoarding and Price Manipulation Manoy Wilbert Lee has been vocal against hoarders and agricultural economic saboteurs who manipulate food prices for profit. “The Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law is in place, but we need to enforce it effectively. Supply monitoring should be strict to prevent artificial food shortages and keep prices stable,” he emphasized. Food Security Emergency: Temporary Solution vs. Long-Term Strategy With growing concerns over food supply, Manoy Wilbert Lee acknowledged that the Food Security Emergency could provide short-term relief but stressed the importance of a sustainable strategy. “Declaring a Food Security Emergency may help temporarily, but consistent support for local food producers is the real solution to ensuring affordable and stable food supply for all Filipinos,” he said. Investing in Farmers is Investing in National Security Manoy Wilbert Lee firmly believes that food security is a national security issue. He calls on the government to prioritize funding for farmers and local food producers, emphasizing that they are the key to long-term agricultural stability. “With proper investment in post-harvest facilities, supply monitoring, and agricultural policies, we can protect Filipino consumers from high food prices while ensuring farmers earn fair income,” he concluded. #ManoyWilbertLee #AGRIPartylist #ColdStorage #FoodSecurity #FoodAffordability #FarmersSupport Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 06 Feb 2025 Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring 29 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring 27 Jan 2025 AGRI TO DA: FAST-TRACK BUILDING P3-B WORTH OF COLD STORAGES, IMPLEMENT COMPREHENSIVE SUPPLY MONITORING TO AVOID PRICE SURGE Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

Filipino farmers benefiting from improved post-harvest facilities under Manoy Wilbert Lee’s agricultural advocacy.

Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring

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Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee welcomed the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) initiative to allocate P3 billion for the construction of 99 cold storage facilities across the country. However, he underscored the need for comprehensive supply monitoring to prevent price surges in agricultural products. Manoy Wilbert Lee Calls for Enhanced Post-Harvest Facilities “For years, we have pushed for increased funding for post-harvest facilities, particularly cold storage units, to match pre-harvest services. This initiative is long overdue,” said Manoy Wilbert Lee. Aside from advocating for larger budget allocations during budget deliberations, AGRI Party-list has proposed legislation to boost support for cold storage facilities, dryers, threshers, and transport equipment—all crucial for improving farmers’ income and stabilizing food prices. Strict Supply Monitoring to Prevent Hoarding and Price Manipulation Despite the promising development, Manoy Wilbert Lee emphasized that these efforts would be ineffective without a strict and efficient monitoring system. “These cold storage units will have little impact if there is no effective supply monitoring system in place. Hoarders and price manipulators continue to exploit agricultural supply gaps, driving food prices up while Filipinos struggle with affordability,” he warned. Legislative Efforts to Strengthen Food Security As the principal author of Republic Act No. 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law, Manoy Wilbert Lee continues to push for reforms that will protect farmers and consumers from unfair trade practices. One of the key measures proposed is House Bill No. 3958, or the Post-Harvest Facilities Support Act, which mandates the DA—along with the DPWH, DAR, and DTI—to provide post-harvest equipment and storage facilities to farmer cooperatives. Food Security Emergency: A Short-Term Fix The looming Food Security Emergency has prompted discussions about short-term and long-term solutions for food affordability and supply stability. “We support the Food Security Emergency declaration, but it’s only a temporary fix. Long-term strategies are needed to ensure sustained support for Filipino farmers and local food producers,” Lee stressed. Food Security as National Security “Food security is a national security concern. Farmers are our ‘food security soldiers.’ We must prioritize funding, proper infrastructure, and immediate action to ensure a stable and affordable food supply for all Filipinos,” Manoy Wilbert Lee concluded. #ManoyWilbertLee #AGRIPartylist #SupportFarmers #FoodSecurity #ColdStorage #AgriculturalReform Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 06 Feb 2025 Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring 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 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

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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

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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

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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

Dagdagan, hindi pabayaan!AGRI SEEKS PROBE ON THE CLOSURE OF SMALL-SCALE RICE, CORN MILLS IN 1K BARANGAYS

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Dagdagan, hindi pabayaan! AGRI SEEKS PROBE ON THE CLOSURE OF SMALL-SCALE RICE, CORN MILLS IN 1K BARANGAYS AGRI Party-list filed a measure to probe the recent reports that small-scale rice and corn millers in over 1,000 barangays have closed in a span of a decade after they were dominated by big players and influx of cheaper imported grain supplies. Lee filed House Resolution No. 2150 urging Congress to investigate these alarming closures, including assessment of their impact to livelihood and food security. “Nakakabahala ang pagsasara ng mga rice and corn millers sa napakaraming barangay sa bansa na hindi nakasabay sa pagdagsa ng mas murang imported na produkto sa merkado. Marami na naman nating magsasaka ang apektado ang kabuhayan at kita sa mga pagsasarang ito,” AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee said. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), there were 15,436 barangays with rice and corn mills in 2023, which is lower by 6.3 percent from the 16,476 recorded in 2013. “Kailangang suriin agad ang usaping ito dahil kung hindi ito matutugunan, posibleng dumami pa ang magsasarang rice and corn millers sa mga susunod na taon, lalo na kung mananatiling mababa ang taripa at dagsa pa rin ang papasok na imported na produkto sa merkado,” AGRI Party-list stated. “Kung magpapatuloy ito, bababa pa ang kita ng ating mga lokal na magsasaka, mawawalan sila ng gana, at bababa ang produksyon na siya namang magpapalayo sa katuparan ng food security sa bansa,” it added. According to the said resolution, there is a need to scrutinize the effectiveness of current government programs and interventions to support the development of local rice and corn industries and determine short-term and long-term interventions to put an end to the closure of these mills. “With small-scale rice and corn mills closing despite recurring calls to elevate the state of the country’s agriculture sector, the government needs to recalibrate its policies so progress can be felt by our local food producers. Di pwedeng habang bukambibig na dapat maging mura ang pagkain at prayoridad ang agrikultura ay napapabayaan naman ang ating mga magsasaka, mangingisda at local food producers,” AGRI stressed. AGRI Party-list has long been fighting for more support for post-harvest facilities for farmers through its persistent calls to increase the budget for these needed facilities and agricultural equipment during budget deliberations. Further, AGRI renewed its call for the immediate passage of House Bill No. 3958 or the “Post-Harvest Facilities Support Act”, which underscores the need to provide warehouses, rice mills, and crucial equipment such as dryers, threshers and cold storages, to increase production. “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka at mangingisda at local food producers. Kung patuloy silang madedehado sa mga imported na produkto at kawalan ng sapat na suporta mula sa gobyerno, mananatiling suntok sa buwan at pangarap lang ang murang pagkain,” AGRI Party-list said. “Simulan natin ang 2025 sa seryosong pagtutok at pagbibigay prayoridad sa agrikultura at ituloy-tuloy ang nararapat na tulong sa sektor. Malinaw na sa suporta sa mga lokal na magsasaka, mapapataas ang produksyon at mapapababa ang presyo ng pagkain, kung saan panalo ang sambayanang Pilipino,” it added. ### Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 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 10 Dec 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Unity in Protecting Agriculture Budget for Filipino Farmers Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

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

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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

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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

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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 PL URGES SENATE, HREP TO PROTECT AGRI BUDGET FOR 2025

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AGRI PL URGES SENATE, HREP TO PROTECT AGRI BUDGET FOR 2025 AGRI Party-list has called on lawmakers from both the Senate and the House of Representatives to ensure that the agriculture sector’s budget remains intact as the Bicameral Conference Committee deliberates on the 2025 General Appropriations Bill. According to AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee, sufficient funding for agriculture is essential to achieving food security and supporting the livelihood of millions of farmers, fisherfolk and local food producers. “Cutting the budget for agriculture at this critical time would jeopardize our efforts to achieve food security and improve the well-being of our rural communities. Deserve ng ating local food producers, na siyang ating ‘food security soldiers’, ng dagdag na suporta lalo na’t sila ang pinagmumulan ng pagkain ng ating bansa,” the Bicolano lawmaker said. The Bicameral Conference Committee is set to reconcile the differences between the Senate and House versions of the ₱6.352 National Budget next week. AGRI Party-list stressed that underfunding the agriculture sector could have long-term consequences, particularly in the face of rising global food prices and climate change. “Investing in agriculture is not just about supporting our farmers, fisherfolk and local food producers, it’s about safeguarding our nation’s food supply against external shocks. A reduced budget would be a step backward in addressing these challenges,” AGRI said in a statement. It further argued that proposed allocations are insufficient to meet the needs of local food producers and address pressing issues such as low productivity, aging infrastructure, and the lack of post-harvest facilities. “The agriculture budget remains a small fraction of the total National Budget and is less than half of the ₱500 billion the DA was originally requesting for 2025,” the Party-list stressed.  “Kung seryoso tayo na magkaroon ng murang pagkain sa hapag ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino, dapat maging prayoridad ang dagdag na suporta sa mga magsasaka, mangingisda, at buong sektor ng agrikultura. Sa pamamagitan nito, hindi lang mapapataas ang kanilang kita, mapapaunlad din ang produksyon, dadami ang supply, at bababa ang presyo ng pagkain at iba pang bilihin sa merkado,” it added. AGRI, which has been at the forefront of fighting for a better agriculture sector in the country, urged both Congress  chambers to work together to prioritize the needs of local food producers in the final version of the budget. “This is not just about passing the budget law. It’s about making a commitment to the millions of Filipinos who rely on agriculture for their livelihood. Sa suporta sa agrikultura, panalo ang masa!” AGRI stressed.  Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 09 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