Manila: Senator Francis Pangilinan on Tuesday expressed support to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s renewed commitment to strengthen the country’s agricultural sector but called on the government to back it with concrete action, proper funding, and safeguards against corrupt spending. In an interview with ANC’s Headstart, Pangilinan said he would use his Senate oversight powers to monitor the implementation of the administration’s pledge to allocate PHP113 billion to Department of Agriculture (DA) programs.

According to Philippines News Agency, Pangilinan emphasized the need to prioritize solving the high prices of rice and other goods while supporting agriculture. He warned against any repeat occurrences of budget realignments that previously reduced allocations for agriculture and education in favor of infrastructure during the 2025 budget process. The senator stressed that such practices should not happen again and vowed to keep a close watch on the spending.

Pangilinan also highlighted the necessity for transparency regarding the proposed PHP113 billion budget for agriculture. He mentioned his earlier proposal to gradually increase the DA’s annual budget to PHP100 billion over six years, aiming to reach a total of PHP800 billion to PHP900 billion. He pointed out that with up to PHP200 billion earmarked for food procurement annually, the effective use of the Sagip Saka law could substantially enhance farmers’ incomes.

The senator underscored the importance of securing farmers and fisherfolk to ensure food security and agricultural output. He argued that significant budgetary support is needed to provide access to credit, infrastructure, climate change resilience, and disaster relief. Pangilinan pledged continued scrutiny to protect agriculture funds and ensure that the President’s promises lead to tangible improvements in the lives of food producers.