Senator Kiko Pangilinan has called on the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and local government units (LGUs) to encourage farmers to harvest their crops early and directly purchase these at fair prices, in accordance with the Sagip Saka Act, for use in relief operations in evacuation centers.
In a recent interview, Pangilinan, author of the Sagip Saka Act, recalled how during a previous typhoon, farmers were forced to harvest their crops early to avoid losing them entirely.
However, the challenge then was where to sell their produce. To address this, the veteran legislator coordinated with the Quezon City Government during the typhoon which operated 12 to 14 hot meals kitchens serving evacuees in various centers.
“Ang nangyari noon, binili ‘yung gulay na early harvest: kalabasa, sitaw, okra, kamatis — at ‘yun ang ipinamahagi doon sa mga evacuation centers bilang relief operations,” the seasoned lawmaker said.
“Both farmers and LGUs benefited from this initiative.”
The senator emphasized that both farmers and LGUs benefited from this initiative.
Farmers were able to sell their early-harvested crops at just prices instead of suffering losses from typhoon damage, while LGUs gained access to fresh, locally sourced vegetables for their relief efforts–ensuring healthier, freshly cooked meals for evacuees.
“Panalo ‘yung local government na bumili dahil sariwa ang naging pagkain: hot meals — para sa mga nasa evacuation centers.”
“Panalo ‘yung farmers dahil binili sa tamang presyo, nag-early harvest siya. Panalo ‘yung local government na bumili dahil sariwa ang naging pagkain: hot meals — para sa mga nasa evacuation centers.” he added.
With the recently signed twin Executive Orders–the Floor Price on Palay and the Sagip Saka Act Implementation–Pangilinan said these measures will help ensure that farmers are protected from losses and continue to earn fair income when properly implemented.
He also urged national government agencies and local government units to continue supporting local farmers, especially during these challenging times, reminding everyone that crises can also open opportunities for meaningful action.
“Ang panawagan natin sa mga LGU ngayon ay makipag-usap, baka pwedeng mag-umpisa ng early harvest ang mga farmer ng kanilang mga produkto at bilhin na ng mga LGU dahil magagamit din naman kaagad para sa mga evacuation centers kung sakaling merong mga evacuees. So, early harvest and Sagip Saka — direct purchase ng ating mga LGU.” Pangilinan said.
“Bawas pinsala para sa magsasaka at sariwang gulay, prutas, at pagkain naman sa mga nasa evacuation centers,” he concluded.
