Former senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan (L) files his Certificate of Candidacy on October 8, 2024, for the 2025 Senate race. (Official Facebook page of Kiko Pangilinan)
MANILA, Philippines — Senate aspirant and former senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan on Wednesday said that increased budget support for farm enterprises could encourage the youth to work in the agricultural sector.
“Just like any industry, if this does not yield enough profit or income, the youth will not be interested, so it is important to ensure that agriculture is supported to provide good income,” Pangilinan said in Filipino during the Kiko-Bam campaign launch on Wednesday.
Pangilinan also mentioned the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) budget increase throughout the years, which he said should also be applied to the agriculture sector.
“That is what should happen in agriculture, where there will be five to seven times more [increase] in the next six to 10 years so the support for agri enterprise is good, the income and profit will increase so the youth will be encouraged to join the farming industry.” he added.
Pangilinan likewise emphasized that the full implementation of Republic Act No. 11321 or the Sagip Saka Act will help develop farm enterprises.
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He was the principal author of the law that seeks to strengthen the enterprise development program for farmers and fisherfolk.
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Pangilinan also shared the story of Camarines Sur Multipurpose Cooperative, where direct rice purchases by the local government units contributed to an increase in their year-end sales amounting to P60 million.
“If an enterprise has a profit of P6 million a month, I think the youth will be interested,” he pointed out.
The law also mandates the government to purchase goods directly from fishermen and farmers for their various programs.
Pangilinan previously said that he is eyeing to address food security in his Senate comeback bid.
He also mentioned that what made him run again for senator in the 2025 elections is the public’s clamor to address increasing prices of basic commodities.
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