Senate pushes fuel, fertilizer subsidies to protect farm output, curb food price hikes
MANILA – Lawmakers are urging the immediate rollout of fuel and fertilizer subsidies to sustain agricultural production and prevent potential spikes in food prices in the coming months.
During a Senate hearing on the impact of rising oil prices, Senator Bam Aquino warned that increasing input costs are already straining farmers’ ability to plant, particularly ahead of the critical cropping season.
He cautioned that delays in government assistance could result in reduced harvests and higher prices in local markets.
“If we fail to deliver this support, we will likely see food prices rise — something we want to avoid,” Aquino said.
At the same hearing, Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Asis Perez said the Philippines currently produces about 78 percent of its rice requirements. However, he warned that output could fall sharply — by at least 20 percent and possibly as much as 50 percent — if no intervention is implemented.
“That is the cost of inaction,” Perez said, pointing to the risks posed by rising input prices.
He noted that fertilizer costs surged following global supply disruptions, while higher fuel prices continue to drive up expenses for land preparation and transport. These challenges are expected to affect the upcoming planting season from May to June, with harvests projected between August and September.
To address these risks, Aquino called for the urgent release of subsidies covering diesel, gasoline, and fertilizers to help farmers maintain production during the crucial planting window.
The Department of Agriculture estimates that around PHP37 billion is needed to support key sectors, including rice, corn, and fisheries, over a three-month production cycle.
Aquino said the government could tap approximately PHP200 billion in available assistance funds to finance the proposed subsidies.
“Now is the time to use these resources to support our farmers and fisherfolk,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) assured that its existing programs can extend aid to affected sectors. Undersecretary Aliah Dimaporo said assistance mechanisms are in place for individuals facing crisis situations, including those in agriculture.
Lawmakers are continuing consultations with key agencies, including the Department of Finance, to determine how best to mobilize funds and ensure timely distribution of subsidies.
The Senate emphasized that swift intervention is critical to sustaining farm output, protecting farmer livelihoods, and stabilizing food prices amid rising global oil costs.
NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR
