In a significant move to uplift the farming communities, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office (DA-RFO) XII Regional Executive Director Roberto Perales recently introduced Price Protection Program (PPP) which aimed at supporting farmer cooperatives and associations (FCAs).
This pioneering initiative – PPP, according to Director Perales, aims to ensure that farmers not only have access to production support and other assistance, but also secure, stable, and fair prices for their agricultural products. “This program intends to combat the constant fluctuations of market prices, one of the most persistent issues in the agricultural sector which often leaves farmers vulnerable to financial instability,” he further explained.
Director Perales has also emphasized the importance of stable markets for the success of the farmers. “Sa larangan ng agrikultura, kapag nagtanim tayo ay dapat meron tayong merkado. Ang merkado ang pinakamahalaga,” he remarked, highlighting that access to a reliable market for crops is crucial for sustaining and growing the agricultural sector.
“Gusto naming maprotektahan kayo at ang presyo ng mga produkto ninyo,” Director Perales underscored.
Director Perales further shared that PPP will enable FCAs to sell their produce at fair and stable prices, ensuring that they are not at the mercy of market volatility. As part of the initiative and to support the program, he reported that the agency has secured partnerships with key consolidators, including prominent private-sector buyers such as Vitarich Corporation, BioTech Farms, Inc., and PG Ang Sons, Inc. “These consolidators will act as the reliable purchasers of the farmers’ goods, further solidifying the program’s foundation,” he said.
In addition to private sector partnerships, DA’s attached agencies Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) and Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC) have also pledged their support to the program. The PCIC’s involvement will offer farmers an additional layer of protection against risks like crop failure, while the ACPC will provide critical funding support to boost agricultural productivity.
To further expand the program, Director Perales plans to expand and broaden its reach and impact. “The program’s success will serve as a model for other communities in the region, and ultimately, the Philippines, as it aims to tackle the systemic issues that have long-hindered the development of the agricultural sector,” he said.
With the focus on empowering local farmers and fostering long-term growth in agriculture, the PPP stands as a significant step toward achieving economic stability and food security in the region. As more farmers join in the initiative, the hope is that PPP will start a ripple effect, contributing to the overall strengthening of the national agricultural economy.
As the program progresses, the agency’s expansion plans for the PPP will continue to be closely watched, with many hoping that it will set the stage for similar initiatives across the country, ensuring that Filipino farmers can thrive in an environment of fairness, sustainability, and guaranteed market access. (Dannica French)