SEN. Francis Pangilinan has pledged to advance key legislative measures aimed at ensuring food security, while stressing the critical role of agricultural workers in national development.
Speaking during the 140th founding anniversary of Pampanga State Agricultural University on Thursday, the senator commended students and graduates in agriculture-related fields, emphasizing their future role in revitalizing the country’s agri-fisheries sector. He cited the potential impact of his proposed Agricultural and Fisheries Cooperatives Act and Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Act, which aim to expand job opportunities across local government units, national agencies, and the private sector.
Pangilinan, who chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food and Agrarian Reform, said the measures would institutionalize stronger support systems for farmers and fisherfolk, including improved access to markets, financing and technical assistance. He noted that the proposed laws would also help professionalize the sector and encourage entrepreneurship among young agriculture graduates.
The senator expressed concern that the Philippines has lagged behind its regional peers in agricultural development, despite being a training ground for experts from neighboring countries through institutions such as the University of the Philippines Los Baños and the International Rice Research Institute. He called for renewed investments in agricultural education, research and extension services to regain competitiveness.
During a dialogue with farmers in San Simon, Pangilinan elaborated on plans to renationalize the agricultural and fisheries extension system and re-establish a dedicated bureau under the Department of Agriculture. These reforms aim to decentralize services and bring technical support directly to the municipal level, enabling farmers to adopt modern practices and improve productivity.
The proposed measures are designed to complement the implementation of the Sagip Saka Act, which Pangilinan authored. The law allows government agencies and LGUs to procure food directly from farmers and fisherfolk without public bidding, creating more stable and accessible markets. Local farmers have already benefited through supply agreements with agencies such as the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology and other government institutions.
Pangilinan also highlighted recent policy gains, including Executive Order 100, which sets a minimum floor price for palay purchases, and EO 101.
The senator reiterated the need for sustained policy support for the agriculture sector, including increased investments in modern farming technologies, expanded access to credit and improved infrastructure. He also stressed the importance of education, training, and sustainable development initiatives to empower rural communities and ensure long-term growth in the sector.