Press Release
September 20, 2014

Villar cites agriculturists' role in agricultural growth

Senator Cynthia A. Villar, chairperson of the Senate Agriculture and Food Committee, yesterday acknowledged the significant role of provincial agriculturists to improve the country's agricultural sector and the lives of farmers.

Speaking during the Strategic Management in Agriculture: Strengthening LGUs for Poverty Reduction Training-Workshop at Villar SIPAG in Las Pinas City, the senator lauded their huge contributions to the agricultural development plan in their respective provinces.

"You also play a big role to achieve food security and self-sufficiency. You are the partners of our farmers and fishermen in their job due to the technical services that you provide them. You also serve as the link of the government to the private and public sectors" said Villar.

Being at the forefront of the agriculture sector, Villar stressed it is important for our agriculturists to acquire continuing knowledge particularly on new strategies, innovations and procedures related to agriculture.

"This will help you in the discharge of your functions," said Villar who has been pushing for the passage of various agriculture-related legislations like the Sugarcane Industry Development Act and amendments to our Fisheries Code.

The three-day training workshop aims to provide skills in overseeing farmer organizations from a strategic management perspective and to strengthen your contribution in poverty reduction in the agriculture and fisheries sectors.

She stressed that it is about time to reverse the fact that farmers and fisher folks have always been considered as among the poorest in our country.

Data from the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) show that farmers and fishermen are among the lowest paid workers with an average daily wage and salary of P156.8 and P178.43, respectively. In fact, coconut farmers in Davao earn less than P50 pesos a day.

Villar has maintained that the agriculture sector will generate more revenues for the Philippines if it will be backed by adequate budget and effective programs.

"We need to help Filipino farmers and agricultural workers to be more productive and globally competitive," she said.

She likewise emphasized that two-third of the country's population are directly or indirectly involved or dependent on agriculture, and one-third are agricultural workers themselves.

"On top of this, the Philippines is an agricultural country," added the former three-term congresswoman.

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