DA seeks P32-B budget for food security program

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is requesting a PHP32-billion supplemental budget for its 'Ahon Lahat, Pagkaing Sapat Kontra sa COVID-19' program to ensure food security during the pandemic.

The program aims to prevent food shortages and supply disruptions due to reduced farm and fishery production and transportation issues.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar emphasized the need for action to avoid potential food scarcity and associated social unrest.

The budget includes PHP8.5 billion for the Rice Resiliency Project, with allocations for fertilizer, seed support, mechanization, credit, and expanding rice-growing areas.