IN AN answer to the question how he could help farmers in Davao del Norte, former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. made a strong appeal for comprehensive food security programs and expanded support for farmers during the Alyansa press conference at Banana Beach, Tagum City.
Abalos stressed the urgency of enhancing sustainable agricultural practices, expanding crop insurance coverage, and providing direct assistance to the agriculture sector to protect the nation’s food supply.
“Food security is critical to our country’s future,” Abalos said. “Just imagine how many LGUs we have across the Philippines—each one represents a ready market for our farmers. We must maximize this potential to help them thrive and ensure food on every family’s table.”
Drawing from his experience as a former mayor, Abalos shared a successful initiative in Aliaga where he helped farmers overcome market barriers and avoid wastage of their produce.
“Sa Aliaga, noong alkalde pa ako, halos tinatapon na lang ang mga kalabasa dahil wala nang bibili,” he recalled. “Ang ginawa ko ay binili namin ang produce ng mga magsasaka at ipinasa ang gastos sa trucking at iba pang logistics sa aming mga residente. Malaking tulong ito hindi lang sa mga magsasaka kundi pati sa mga mamamayan.”
Abalos encouraged other local government units to adopt similar programs, emphasizing that direct support eliminates middlemen and creates a stable market for agricultural products. CEA
