In a recent press briefing held in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, Benhur Abalos, the former secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), strongly advocated for a more comprehensive support system for farmers. Speaking at the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas event on February 15, 2025, Abalos emphasized the importance of expanding crop and financial insurance to bolster the agricultural sector’s resilience and stability.
Abalos, who was in the region to join other senatorial candidates from the administration for a campaign rally, highlighted the critical role of enhanced financial assistance and broader insurance coverage in supporting farmers and their families. He stressed that such measures are essential for ensuring food security, a vital aspect of the nation’s future.
He called on local government units to take action against middlemen and establish a stable market environment that would allow farmers to receive fair compensation for their produce. Abalos also pushed for the institutionalization of financial support mechanisms, including accessible and affordable credit programs, to enable farmers to invest in improved seeds, technology, and equipment.
‘Our leaders at both the national and local levels must prioritize food security and farmer support in their development agendas,’ Abalos concluded, underscoring the urgency of these initiatives for the well-being of the country.