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The proposed ₱205.8-billion agriculture budget for 2026 will focus on boosting rice production and improving farm-to-market roads to support farmers and strengthen the country’s food supply. The budget plan was presented during the “Usapang Budget Natin” forum held at the Bacnotan Public Market on February 13. The program aims to help local communities better understand how national government funds are allocated and how these programs can benefit them. Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary Nora C. Oliveros said the proposed agriculture budget for 2026 is higher than the allocation for 2025. According to Oliveros, the increase shows the government’s continued commitment to strengthening agriculture as a key driver of economic growth. She explained that rice production remains the top priority under the proposed budget. Around ₱30.9 billion has been allocated for the National Rice Program, which will fund the distribution of seeds and fertilizers, as well as training programs for farmers. These efforts aim to help improve productivity and increase farmers’ income. Oliveros also highlighted the support provided through the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF). The program allocates ₱10 billion annually to provide farm machinery, quality seeds, and credit assistance to farmers. Additional funds are also distributed directly to small rice farmers as cash assistance. To improve market access for agricultural products, the DA has proposed ₱18.5 billion for the construction and improvement of farm-to-market roads. These roads are expected to help farmers transport their products more easily and reduce post-harvest losses. The proposed agriculture budget also sets aside ₱5.3 billion for corn production, ₱4.5 billion for livestock development, and ₱6.8 billion for fisheries. Funding will also support agro-industrial projects, including feed mill facilities, to help strengthen local agricultural value chains. Addressing climate-related risks, Oliveros said the DA’s El Niño Task Force remains active in assisting farmers. The task force provides equipment such as water pumps, distributes drought-resistant seeds, and promotes solar-powered irrigation systems to help farmers cope with extreme weather conditions. She encouraged farmers and local government units to coordinate with their regional DA offices so they can access these programs once the 2026 agriculture budget is implemented. The initiatives aim to support farmers while ensuring a stable food supply across the country.

NPO News Team | Philippines Information Agency – PR