GOV’T TO ENSURE ACCESS TO SUFFICIENT, AFFORDABLE, AND NUTRITIOUS FOOD

The Philippine government will create a resilient and prosperous nation where every Filipino has reliable access to sufficient, affordable, and nutritious food, according to National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan.
During the Post-SONA Discussions on July 25, 2023, NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said that the government is harmonizing efforts from various fronts towards attaining the country’s food security. Coordinated actions shall address emerging issues that may impact food supply and manage food inflation.
He added that these strategies are laid out in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which emphasizes programs and legislative priorities to modernize agriculture, ensure household food security and proper nutrition, advance R&D and innovation, accelerate climate action, and strengthen disaster resilience.
He further added that the government’s overarching goal is not solely focused on the quantity of food available, but also on enabling people – especially the poor and vulnerable – to access it without encountering economic or social barriers. This entails broader strategies addressing not just issues with respect to local production, but also with respect to trade policy and logistics which allow for the free movement of goods from diverse sources to end consumers, especially in light of the threat of El Niño to domestic supplies.
“The government’s Inter-Agency Committee on Inflation and Market Outlook, through the Economic Development Group, actively engages in ongoing discussions and advises the President and the Cabinet on various interventions to manage food inflation and mitigate the effects of El Niño,” said Balisacan.
Meanwhile, in his presentation for the 2023 Philippine Agriculturists’ Summit in Davao City, Secretary Balisacan, represented by NEDA Undersecretary for Legislative Affairs Krystal Lyn T. Uy, underscored the importance of the agriculture sector as a crucial aspect of national development, economic stability, and food security.
“Investing in agriculture can strengthen our ability to produce food locally, increase agricultural productivity and enhance overall food sufficiency. This not only provides a stable supply of essential goods during challenging times but also creates employment opportunities and boosts the rural economy,” said Balisacan.
He further said that while the sector has always been the priority of the government, it was further reinforced during the COVID-19 pandemic when countries worldwide experienced the repercussions of disrupted global supply chains.
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