Sustainability must shape the future of our agriculture sector.
During the budget deliberations for the Department of Agriculture and its attached agencies, I raised the question of how the Philippine Tropical Fabrics Law, a measure I principally authored to uplift Filipino weavers and promote local textiles, is being implemented and why we continue to rely on imported cotton. We must prioritize our local industries and rural livelihoods to strengthen our nation’s craftsmanship.
I also sought answers on the decades-long delay in mapping Strategic Agriculture and Fisheries Development Zones (SAFDZ), as mandated by the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act (AFMA) of 1997. These zones could have unlocked significant investments, innovation, and opportunities, transforming agriculture and paving the way for a more resilient future for our farmers and fisherfolk.
I will continue to champion the agriculture sector and ensure that the laws we have crafted translate into tangible benefits for our people.
