PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. discussed on Thursday, August 18, 2022, issues concerning the movement of agricultural products in a bid to lower food prices in the country.
In a Cabinet meeting at the Malacañang, Marcos said there is a need to address logistics problems in agriculture.
He said there were complaints from forwarders and cargo handlers on policies imposed by local government units (LGUs) as well as the presence of many checkpoints.
“We cannot afford to do that anymore. The logistical challenge is clear, and we are not handling it,” the President said.
Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. said he will discuss the matter with the Philippine National Police, local government units and the Department of Trade and Industry, particularly the revival of the express lanes for delivery vehicles carrying food.
He said food trucks should be free-flowing, but it tends to be intercepted due to several reasons including the avian flu.
Another possible solution raised is the use of technology to track deliveries and identify where and what causes the delay.
Marcos said technology could also be used to determine areas having good harvest, enabling the government to bring their produce to locations experiencing food shortages.
Experts say while production is the starting point of food security, distribution is also an important factor that must be considered.
Marcos earlier said one of his administration’s priorities would be the digitalization in the government to ease the process of doing business and for good governance. (SunStar Philippines)