The Department of Agriculture (DA), led by Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., is increasing efforts to help farmers and fisherfolk in the Cordillera Administrative Region cope with rising fuel costs and market disruptions.
The agency said it is providing fuel subsidies, expanding Kadiwa market links, deploying trucks for transport, and working with government and private partners to improve delivery of agricultural goods. It is also mapping affected areas, offering financial aid, and promoting integrated farming to diversify incomes.
To reduce spoilage, the DA is rolling out long-term solutions such as cold storage, processing facilities, and low-cost preservation technologies. It rejected proposals to set minimum vegetable prices, warning of possible market distortions, and instead is focusing on better logistics and supply chain coordination.
Fisherfolk have been hit hard by high fuel prices, forcing some to reduce or stop operations. To help, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources allocated ₱75 million in fuel aid for over 15,000 fishermen, with more support planned under a national assistance program.
In Benguet and nearby areas, vegetable farmers are dealing with oversupply, weak demand, and high transport costs. The DA estimates around 590 metric tons of produce need urgent market intervention due to the risk of spoilage.
To address this, the agency has increased Kadiwa selling activities and trade fairs, generating over ₱1.3 million in sales from March to early April. It also mobilized trucks from farmer groups and local governments, and coordinated with agencies such as the Office of Civil Defense for faster transport.
Additional measures include finding new buyers, relaunching promotions, and supporting alternative livelihood projects. The DA said these efforts aim to keep farmers productive while ensuring a stable and affordable food supply.
