Why a Million Hectares
Angelito M. Sarmiento
Chairman
MARID Editorial Board
In a recent talk with agri-practioners from the University of the Philippines, Los Baños (UPLB), I was told of their disappointment over the seemingly wholesale invasion of agricultural products in the local market from China. This was coupled with the government plan to open a million hectares of the agri-land for Chinese businessmen, despite of the existence or availability of local agri-talents recognized and hired by foreign governments and organizations.
To a large extent, I share their concern. UPLB enjoyed high international recognition as an educational institution producing top caliber agri-people. But the inability of the Philippines to elevate its agricultural productivity equal if not better than nearby countries somehow puts a dent in its image. Somewhere, somehow, the agriculture scenario seems not equal to the recognition anymore.
In retrospect, there are many things that could have been done but that is water under the bridge. A litany of “what could have been” is an input to the equation, but knowing where we are and where we want to go is a basic fundamental in planning. Not knowing where we are will not bring us anywhere.
Questions why agri-products from China and far-away lands are able to penetrate local markets at competitive levels must be answered outside of the off-the-cuff reasons of government subsidies and price dumping. Real answers must be given to guide local producers in their investment ventures and activities.
Determination of the competitive areas, now and in the future, must be known so that government interventions and programs can be consistently pursued (and funded), and not be dependent on who heads the agri-bureacracy and other interim officials.
Unlike in the other government initiatives, agricultural programs require long term nurturing commitment and sustained attention to bring in the projected economic results. There is no other way. Continue reading “Why a Million Hectares”