DA redirects fuel savings to boost logistics support for farmers, fishers
MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) is reallocating savings from reduced fuel and energy use to strengthen logistics support for farmers and fisherfolk amid rising global oil prices.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the agency is cutting back on fuel consumption and operational costs, allowing it to redirect funds toward assisting agricultural producers.
“We are tightening our own expenses, and in turn, we are refocusing these savings on the logistics needs of our farmers and fishers,” he said.
To conserve resources, the DA has reduced the use of government vehicles across its central and regional offices and implemented flexible work arrangements.
Part of the redirected support includes deploying transport trucks in key production areas such as La Trinidad, Benguet, to help move vegetables from farms to trading posts and markets more efficiently.
Tiu Laurel said DA teams are already on the ground in upland farming areas to assess logistics requirements and ensure timely delivery of produce.
The agency is also preparing a broader assistance package that may include fuel subsidies, fertilizer support, and seed distribution to help farmers sustain production.
“This will allow farmers to continue harvesting and ensure their products are delivered from mountain areas to the markets,” he said.
In addition, the DA is exploring funding options to expand targeted assistance programs, particularly for agricultural transport vehicles, as part of efforts to stabilize supply chains and support rural livelihoods.
NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR
