ANGARA BATS FOR LONG-TERM AGRI INVESTMENT

Senator Edgardo J. Angara today renews his call for more investment in agriculture as parts of the country enter its rice planting season this June.

In order to address the needs of the country, especially since the Filipinos are very accustomed of eating rice the government has been steadily considering the importation of rice to meet the demands of our people.

"This spells bad news especially during the toughest times where the country is experiencing not only climate change and financial crisis, but also health crisis that's damaging our economy as a result of incapacitated labor force from killer diseases," said Angara who formerly chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food.

It is but imperative for government to step in and be more aggressive. "We are spending billions of resources which otherwise could be allocated to long-term investments to boost our agricultural productivity. Our failure to initiate a long-term and focused effort to boost agricultural productivity could result to more poverty and widespread hunger," added Angara.

Angara emphasized that the goals of the national economy are a more equitable distribution of opportunities, income and wealth; a sustained increase in the amount of goods and services produced by the nation for the benefit of the people; and an expanding productivity as the key to raising the quality of life

In light with his advocacy, Angara authored significant legislations in agriculture including the Agriculture Fisheries and Modernization Act (AFMA), a masterplan for agricultural modernization which other countries in Southeast Asia have adopted. This will strengthen and accelerate agricultural products hence raising the quality of life for all.

Angara, a former Department of Agriculture secretary, prodded the government to ensure RP's food security through long term investments on agriculture.