As typhoons Egay and Falcon left a trail of devastation in their wake, Filipino Senator Win Gatchalian emphasised the need for a robust agriculture information system (AIS) to help farmers boost their productivity, while also assuring adequate food supply in the market, despite weather interruptions
Gatchalian continued relief operations by distributing rice provided by Valenzuela City to the severe Typhoon-affected provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and Abra. In addition, the Senator was joined by Valenzuela City Counsellors Niña Lopez and Ricarr Enriquez.
According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the recent typhoons have affected around 117,000 farmers and fisherfolk throughout the nation, causing agricultural damages that were estimated to be around US$53.3mn. As a result, more than 140,000 ha of crop area was damaged.
The lawmaker proceeded with filing Senate Bill No: 1374, seeking the establishment of an AIS that would enable farmers to not only find their markets, but also sell their output where there is demand. Once in effect, the system is expected to ensure the profitability of farmers and the adequacy of food supply in retail centres.
"We want to support our kababayans not only in the short and medium term but also in the long run. We expect that through the creation of the AIS, the livelihood of our farmers will be more organised and the problem of hunger in the country will be resolved," said Gatchalian.
