SEN. Christopher “Bong” Go has called on Agriculture Secretary Francisco Laurel Jr. to help farmers recover from the impact of climate change to ensure food security.
In a recent chance interview on February 1 in Quezon, Nueva Ecija, after aiding displaced workers, Senator Go emphasized the need for immediate action to address the challenges faced by farmers. He raised the urgency of implementing long-term strategies to mitigate the effects of weather irregularities, such as the El Niño phenomenon.
“We should not neglect our farmers,” said Go, recognizing their vital role as the “backbone of the nation’s food supply.” He deplored the “precarious situation of the farmers who live a hand-to-mouth existence” and called for government support to uplift their condition.
Nueva Ecija, known as the rice granary of the Philippines, holds significant importance in the country’s agricultural landscape. It is crucial that farmers in this region, and others affected by climate change, receive the necessary assistance to ensure their stability and productivity. This includes financial aid, access to fertilizers, and other essential farm equipment.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has reported substantial losses in Western Visayas and Zamboanga Peninsula due to the El Niño phenomenon, with farmers bearing the brunt of the blow. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration has also forecasted that Northern Mindanao will experience the “harshest” impacts of El Niño in the coming months.
To address the impending crisis, the Philippine National Irrigation Administration has projected that 20 percent of rice farms will be affected by drought. This highlights the need for immediate intervention and support to mitigate the potential damage to the agricultural sector.
In light of these challenges, Senator Go’s call for the Department of Agriculture to prioritize the welfare of farmers is crucial. By providing the necessary resources and assistance, the government can help farmers overcome the adverse effects of climate change and ensure food security for the nation.
It is imperative to recognize that the impact of climate change on agriculture is not limited to the Philippines. Farmers worldwide face similar challenges, with changing weather patterns affecting crop yields and livelihoods. By addressing these issues in a timely and proactive manner, governments can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change and secure the future of agriculture.
In conclusion, Senator Go’s advocacy for the support and upliftment of farmers affected by climate change is commendable. The Department of Agriculture must take swift action to provide the necessary aid, financial support, and resources to ensure the stability and productivity of farmers. By doing so, we can safeguard food security, protect the livelihoods of farmers, and contribute to the global fight against climate change.
Source: The Manila Times
