Better Days for Philippine Agriculture
The DA has become more bullish about pushing the development of markets for agribusiness. This has led many to believe that the next three years will be better for Filipino farmers and fisherfolks.
By: Ronald G.Mangubat
Two months ago, DA Secretary Arthur Yap delivered an extemporaneous speech to the farmers and fisherfolks of Florida Blanca, Pampanga during the formal launching of pangasius, the fish from Vietnam which, experts say, could be the next alternative to tilapia and bangus. The speech highlighted the DA’s resolve to fulfill its promise of providing food for every Filipino table by 2010. The following translated the following excerpts of Secretary Yap’s speech would reveal why, despite the current political problems, observers believe, things will turn out better for Philippine agriculture in the next three years. -ED
In celebration of World Food Day, we have always emphasized that food is not a privilege but a basic right. My colleagues have always emphasized the importance of increasing production and yields of our crops and animals. I want to emphasize the importance of markets. As former Secretary Lito Saemiento said awhile ago, we must know our customers. Why? Because there is no money in primary agriculture. Dried palay sells at Php12-Php13 per kilo, but if it is sold as milled rice, it can fetch a price of Php25-Php30. Farmgate prices of tilapia is around Php40-Php50 per kilo, but once it reaches the market , it sells at around Pnp80. The money is in the market.