Agriculture Department Stresses Importance of Timely Aid to Farmers for Enhanced Rice Production

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has highlighted the critical need for timely distribution of aid to farmers during the planting season to increase local rice production. This statement follows a directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who emphasized the importance of no delays in providing agricultural support to farmers. DA Spokesperson Arnel de Mesa explained that timely delivery of essential inputs like seeds and fertilizers ensures proper planting times and boosts productivity. The DA is optimistic about reaching a local production target of 20 million metric tons of palay in 2025, an increase from the previous year’s projection of 19.3 million metric tons. De Mesa also noted that favorable weather conditions are expected this year, which could further enhance production. Increased production is anticipated to raise labor demand in other stages of the production process, positively impacting the agricultural and overall economy. The President has instructed the Department of Budget and Management to ensure the timely release of funds to support these initiatives. Under the revised Rice Tariffication law, the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund has been increased to PHP30 billion, with an initial allocation of PHP10 billion, of which PHP6 billion is designated for farm mechanization and PHP4 billion for seeds. The remaining PHP20 billion is expected to be released earlier due to good tariff collections on imported rice. Additional funding will support solar irrigation, diversification, and financial assistance for rice farmers.