Manila:The House of Representatives has urged government agencies to ensure that PHP6.2 billion allocated for El Niño assistance reaches farmers and fisherfolk affected by the worsening droughts, which are threatening agricultural production and the nation's food security.
According to Philippines News Agency, the House Committee on Agriculture and Food, led by Quezon 1st District Rep. Mark Enverga, is continuing its investigation under House Resolution 967. The inquiry, introduced by Sultan Kudarat Rep. Bella Vanessa Suansing, aims to assess government preparedness, funding, and measures to protect agricultural livelihoods amid the El Niño phenomenon.
The committee's investigation follows a briefing in June where the Department of Agriculture and Task Force El Niño outlined government preparations and planned responses. Enverga, emphasizing the personal instruction from Speaker Faustino Bojie Dy III, stated the importance of ensuring that public funds and relief budgets are transparently and directly implemented for the severely affected beneficiaries.
Enverga pointed out that Congress aims to verify if the PHP6.2 billion under the UPLIFT program for fuel, fertilizer, and direct assistance is reaching the 310,000 targeted small farmers and fisherfolk. Additionally, the committee is investigating a PHP371 million funding shortfall for necessary interventions such as cloud seeding and pest control for sugarcane production.
The committee stressed the need for stronger coordination among government agencies and urgent action to address funding shortages, as farmers and fisherfolk face increasing threats to their livelihoods. Enverga called for immediate and focused assistance to the agricultural sector, urging agencies to provide clear and direct answers.
Rep. Suansing noted the hearing as an opportunity to evaluate government agencies' progress since the June briefing and to identify additional measures needed to support farmers, fisherfolk, and consumers. She highlighted the importance of preparing for El Niño's broader impacts on water security, energy, health, and social protection.
Suansing also sought updates on the implementation of Republic Act 12287 and urged the Department of Agriculture to expand drought-resistant farming technologies and alternative livelihood programs. She warned of potential conflicts over limited water supplies and emphasized the need for government preparedness to address climate change's long-term effects.
The hearing included representatives from various government agencies and private agricultural groups to discuss these pressing issues.
