AGRI PARTY-LIST

Wilbert Lee

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

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 PL URGES SENATE, HREP TO PROTECT AGRI BUDGET FOR 2025

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

Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list

Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list AGRI Party-list, led by Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee, is championing the expansion of crop insurance to protect farmers and achieve food security in the wake of recent typhoons. House Bill No. 7387, which AGRI authored, proposes significant reforms to the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) to include not just palay but also other crops, livestock, aquaculture, and farm infrastructure. “Expanding crop insurance ensures that farmers are compensated for their losses, allowing them to recover and continue their essential role in feeding the nation,” Lee said. AGRI also stressed the need for PCIC to intensify outreach programs and bring services directly to disaster-stricken communities through mobile offices. The party-list highlighted how protecting farmers’ livelihoods can lower food costs for all Filipinos. “When farmers are supported, they produce more. Increased supply leads to lower food prices, benefiting every household in the country,” AGRI said in a statement. As the bill awaits Senate action, AGRI called on legislators to prioritize its passage, emphasizing the measure’s role in alleviating farmers’ financial woes and securing the nation’s food supply. #FoodSecurityPH #SupportOurFarmers #WiseLeadership Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 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 25 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities 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

AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities

AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities With consecutive typhoons battering the Philippines, AGRI Party-list is calling for the urgent passage of House Bill No. 7387 or the “Essential Crop Insurance Act” to protect farmers from devastating losses during calamities. The bill, approved by the House of Representatives in March 2023, is now awaiting Senate approval. AGRI Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee emphasized the critical need for expanded crop insurance, saying, “Farmers are left with nothing but debt and despair after every calamity. This measure will ensure they have the protection and support they deserve.” The proposed legislation seeks to broaden the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation’s (PCIC) services to include all agricultural commodities, livestock, aquaculture, and even infrastructure. AGRI Party-list also called on the PCIC to deploy mobile offices to disaster-affected areas, making insurance enrollment more accessible to farmers. AGRI reiterated that safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods is key to achieving food security, stating, “When farmers’ incomes are protected, they are motivated to increase production, which boosts food supply and lowers prices—benefiting the entire nation.” #ProtectOurFarmers #FoodSecurity #WiseLeadership Previous Activities Share the News! Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts​ 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 25 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024