The Department of Agriculture has begun preparing the release of fuel assistance to farmers as global oil prices continue to climb, increasing production costs across the agricultural sector.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. announced that the agency secured a P50-million allocation to support farmers who depend on mechanized equipment. Under the program, around 9,570 farmers will each receive P5,000 to help offset rising fuel expenses that impact both farm operations and transportation.
The assistance will be distributed to qualified beneficiaries listed in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture, in line with provisions of the General Appropriations Act. The targeted approach ensures that aid reaches verified farmers most affected by cost increases.
Funding for the program was triggered after global oil prices surpassed the $80-per-barrel threshold, a benchmark set under government guidelines. Data from the Department of Energy showed that the 30-day average price, based on the Mean of Platts Singapore, rose to $89.02 per barrel as of March 13.
The surge in oil prices is largely attributed to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted supply expectations and tightened global energy markets. For the Philippines, which relies heavily on imported fuel, the effects are widespread—driving up farming costs, transport fares, and overall food prices.
While the P50-million fund provides immediate relief, officials acknowledged that it covers only a portion of the sector’s needs. Mechanized farmers remain particularly exposed, as diesel is a major component of expenses during planting and harvesting seasons.
A similar fuel subsidy program for fisherfolk is already being implemented to address rising operational costs in the fishing sector.
Tiu Laurel noted that the government is seeking additional funding sources to expand support. He emphasized the need to assist farmers and fisherfolk who are among the most vulnerable to global fuel price fluctuations.
The initiative reflects the government’s effort to balance targeted financial assistance with limited fiscal resources, as uncertainty in global energy markets continues to affect local industries.
NPO News Team | DA Press Office - PR
