DA Steps Up Food Security Measures Amid Rising Fuel Costs, El Niño Threat
MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) is intensifying efforts to safeguard the country’s food supply as it braces for the combined impact of rising fuel costs and the looming El Niño phenomenon.
Speaking at the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon briefing, DA Undersecretary Asis Perez said the agency is preparing for a “worst-case scenario” to protect both farmers and consumers from potential disruptions.
“We are anticipating the challenges and putting solutions in place early. The government is being proactive in addressing these risks,” Perez said, noting that further measures are being developed and accelerated.
Among the primary concerns are increasing fuel and fertilizer costs, which could force farmers to cut back on inputs and affect overall productivity. The expected dry conditions from El Niño may also drive up irrigation expenses, as farmers rely more on fuel-powered water pumps.
To cushion these impacts, the DA has begun rolling out fuel subsidies for registered farmers and fisherfolk. It is also distributing ₱10 billion in financial assistance under the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF), benefiting over 4 million recipients nationwide.
In addition, the agency has allocated part of its ₱1 billion quick response fund to procure biofertilizers and is exploring the shift from urea to more affordable liquid fertilizer alternatives.
Latest data from the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority show that urea prices remain elevated, adding further pressure on production costs.
Beyond direct aid, the DA is considering production-linked support for farm workers. Instead of purely providing financial assistance, the agency is looking at subsidizing labor costs to help sustain farm operations and maintain output levels.
Perez said the DA is coordinating with the Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Social Welfare and Development to ensure agricultural workers are protected amid ongoing economic and environmental challenges.
NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR
