DA to focus on food programs and projects that will benefit farmers, fisherfolk
DA to focus on food programs and projects that will benefit farmers, fisherfolk
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00:00 The performance of the agriculture industry next year will be the bellwether on whether or how well or poor the nation's economy does in 2024.
00:10 Hence, the proposed spending for the Department of Agriculture went under the magnifying lens of the Senate panel in today's budget hearing that our Daniel Manalastas covered in his report.
00:21 The Senate scrutinized the Department of Agriculture's proposed budget for next year,
00:28 wherein the DA assured that it will focus on the programs for food and not only that, to benefit the farmers and fisherfolks as well.
00:37 While raising the farmers' incomes and fisherfolks' income to complement this thrust,
00:43 greater focus will be afforded to address the gaps and weaknesses in developing strong, modernized, and climate-resilient value chains.
00:51 Meanwhile, Senators seemed not happy over the budget cut for dairy products which was brought up during the hearing.
00:58 Senator Cinthia Villar emphasized its significance, especially to the kids.
01:03 If you produce 1% of milk, it means that poor Filipino children will not drink milk.
01:12 If you don't let them drink milk, it will be difficult and they will not grow up smart. There is no hope for them to grow up and become middle class.
01:23 Senators also grilled the DA on the confidential funds, as some senators suggested to just put this for rice production.
01:31 The DA explained the purpose of the CIF, which will try to address the smuggling.
01:37 The NEPSERA allocated P50 million confidential funds to be dedicated to surveillance operations for anti-agricultural smuggling.
01:47 Daniel Maralestas for the Nation.