Lee Welcomes NFA’s Higher Palay Buying Price, Bats For Cheaper Rice Act
August 14, 2024 Lee Welcomes NFA’s Higher Palay Buying Price, Bats For Cheaper Rice Act AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Wise” T. Lee lauded the recent approval of the National Food Authority (NFA) Council to buy local palay for a higher price to beef up the country’s rice buffer stock. According to the NFA Council, the approved increase in the procurement price of rice will give them flexibility to compete with private traders and help rice farmers boost their income. The NFA buying price now for dry and clean local palay is P23 to P30 per kilo from the previous P19 to P23 per kilo, while wet and fresh palay will be purchased at P17 to P23 a kilo from P16 to P19 per kilo. “The administration’s measure to boost the country’s rice buffer stock by buying local palay at a higher price is what the farmers—our food security soldiers—need now more than ever as they struggle with the effects of El Niño and low income. Spending more to boost their productivity is the right way to go,” Lee said. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. underscored the importance of increasing the buying price for palay, saying “we need to ensure that our farmers make money to encourage them to continue planting and even expand the area planted to rice.” The Bicolano lawmaker then reiterated his call for the urgent passage of his proposed House Bill No. 9020 or the “Cheaper Rice Act” which will institutionalize the “price subsidy” program for the government to buy palay from local farmers at a higher price to ensure their profit and entice them to boost their production. “Sa panukala nating Cheaper Rice Act, isasabatas na natin ang dagdag o patong na P5 to P10 sa prevailing farmgate price per kilo ng palay na bibilhin ng gobyerno sa mga lokal na magsasaka para siguradong kikita sila. Kapag may kita, magpupursige silang taasan ang kanilang produksyon. Kapag dumami ang supply ng bigas, bababa rin ang presyo sa merkado, na aambag din sa pagkamit ng food security sa bansa,” explained Lee. “Kung gusto nating maabot ang P20/kilo ng bigas, dapat gawing priority measure ang panukala nating ito nang maisabatas na sa lalong madaling panahon,” the solon earlier said. Lee added that this legislation will also address the concerns that farmers are forced to sell their land because they are not earning. “Kung may kita, wala po sigurong magsasaka na makakaisip na ibenta ang kanilang lupang sinasaka. Mahihikayat din ang kanilang mga anak at ang kabataan na pasukin ang pagsasaka,” he stressed. “Through this measure, the country will have sufficient supply of rice and we will not rely solely on imports,” Lee further stressed referring to the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) projected rice importation by the Philippines at 3.9 million metric tons (MT) this year, following “strong recent purchases from Vietnam.” “Sa Cheaper Rice Act, hindi na agrabyado ang ating mga magsasaka sa pagbebenta ng palay sa presyong binabarat sila. Panalo din ang consumer sa idudulot nitong mas mababang presyo ng bigas. Sa dulo, bawas pangamba ito sa bawat Pilipino na kakapusin ang kanilang budget sa iba pang pangangailangan, lalo na kung may magkasakit sa pamilya, kaya Winner Tayo Lahat,” Lee said. Leave a Comment Cancel reply Logged in as admin_wilbertleeagriadvocacy. Edit your profile. Log out? Required fields are marked * Message* Latest Post 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 18 Nov 2024 Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE 07 Nov 2024 Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Categories Advocay Legislation Support Share on Social Media Legislation August 14, 2024 Hot News AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Cong. Wilbert Lee: Supporting Farmers is Best Solution to Curb Inflation Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation Cong. Wilbert Lee: “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka” Cong. Wilbert Lee Champions Bigger Budget for Agriculture in 2025 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges PhilHealth, PCA to Fulfill Commitments to Coconut Farmers’ Health Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Calls on PhilHealth, PCA to Deliver Health Benefits for Coconut Farmers
Lawmakers Unite Behind Lee’s Call To Increase DA Budget To Lower Food Prices
August 12, 2024 Murang pagkain, Gawin na natin! Lawmakers Unite Behind Lee’s Call To Increase DA Budget To Lower Food Prices Murang Pagkain, Gawin na Natin! Lawmakers on Monday united behind AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” T. Lee’s call to give the needed budget of the Department of Agriculture (DA) which only got P200.2 billion from its requested P513.8 billion for 2025. During the House briefing on DA’s 2025 budget, Lee said: “Priority ba natin talaga ang agrikultura? Seryoso ba tayo dito? Dahil ang nabasa ko, sinabi ni Secretary [Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr.], P513 billion ang request niya. Ngayon, nakita ko P200 billion lang ang binigay. Ang laki ng difference. Paano natin pabababain ang presyo ng pagkain kung kulang ang inilaan na pondo para sa agrikultura?” “Gusto nating pataasin ang produksyon, pababain ang presyo ng bilihin pero binawasan ang budget. Para tayong naglolokohan lang. Dapat ibigay yung ni-request ng ahensya, at gastusin nang tama para maramdaman agad ng mamamayan, hindi yung nakatengga lang.” This was echoed by his fellow lawmakers such as Rep. Antonio “Tonypet” Albano, Rep. Luis Raymund “Lray” Villafuerte and Rep. Jose “Bong” Teves Jr., among others. “As I said, from our colleague, AGRI Party-list [Rep. Wilbert Lee], tama, kulang po ang budget ng Department of Agriculture. Ngayon ang tanong, bakit tayo nandito? Kailangan nating suportahan ang budget ng Department of Agriculture,” Teves said, which was seconded by other Congressmen. DA Secretary Tiu-Laurel agreed with Lee’s sentiment saying that he is not yet satisfied with the budget given to the agency. “It is unfortunate na yung request natin na P500 billion ay naging P200 billion. I guess, it all boils down sa kung ano ang kaya ng ating gobyerno na i-provide. But of course, manghihingi pa kami ng kaunting dagdag sa bicam [bicameral conference committee], before the end of the year,” the DA chief said. Lee, a food security champion, also pointed out the huge difference between the pre-harvest services and post-harvest facilities which have an allocation of P58.45 billion and P13.51 billion, respectively. “Alam naman po natin na ang post-harvest ang isa sa malaking problema ng ating mga magsasaka. Bakit ba ayaw nating dagdagan ang budget dito, kung hindi man agad na maipantay, eh mailapit man lang sa pre-harvest budget? Napakalayo ng agwat?” Lee said. The solon from Bicol also underscored the need to boost market linkages citing the recent incident of excess tomatoes which Nueva Ecija farmers had to forego or sell for lower prices. “Matagal na po itong ganitong problema. Madalas sobra sa isang lugar, kulang sa ibang lugar ang supply. Pinapalala yan ng problema ng kawalan ng dryers, cold storage facilities, mga machineries, kakulangan ng food terminals o Kadiwa centers,” the solon remarked. Lee then vowed to work closely with the DA family and to submit his proposed amendments to increase the budget of the DA that can help lower the prices of rice and other agricultural commodities. “Paulit-ulit na natin itong panawagan. Pero walang nangyayari. Hindi tayo naglolokohan dito. Seryosong usapin ito para maabot ang murang pagkain. Kawawa ang ating local food producers, kawawa din tayong lahat. Gusto natin mapamura ang pagkain, hindi yung napapamura ang Pilipino sa mahal na bilihin.” “Once and for all, Mr. Chair, Mr. Secretary, gawin na natin ito. May pondo ang gobyerno, nakakapaglaan nga tayo sa mga proyekto na hindi nga ganoon kahalaga o kailangan. Ano pa ang hinihintay natin? Murang pagkain, mataas na produksyon, gawin na natin!” Lee said. Leave a Comment Cancel reply Logged in as admin_wilbertleeagriadvocacy. Edit your profile. Log out? Required fields are marked * Message* Latest Post 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 18 Nov 2024 Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE 07 Nov 2024 Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Categories Advocay Legislation Support Share on Social Media Advocacy August 12, 2024 Hot News AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Cong. Wilbert Lee: Supporting Farmers is Best Solution to Curb Inflation Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation Cong. Wilbert Lee: “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka” Cong. Wilbert Lee Champions Bigger Budget for Agriculture in 2025 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges PhilHealth, PCA to Fulfill Commitments to Coconut Farmers’ Health Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Calls on PhilHealth, PCA to Deliver Health Benefits for Coconut Farmers
Passage Of Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act To Bring Down Food Prices – Lee
August 7, 2024 Murang Pagkain, Gawin na natin! Passage Of Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act To Bring Down Food Prices – Lee With the recent ratification of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” T. Lee said that going after smugglers, hoarders, price manipulators and cartels would effectively bring down food prices which remains to be the main contributor to the overall inflation which rose to 4.4 percent in July. During his trip to Davao Region, Lee said: “Having this Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act signed into law would give the government more teeth to go after hoarders and price manipulators preying on consumers. This is important to stabilize the price of food and other basic commodities which continue to burden Filipinos.” “Dapat habulin at panagutin ang mga demonyong pumapatay sa kabuhayan ng ating local food producers at pabigat sa consumers. Filipinos deserve this law to be implemented because they deserve to be able to have access to basic needs that they need to survive,” Lee, the principal author of the measure, added. Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act seeks to include and penalize other unlawful acts of market abuses, as well as impose a stricter penalty for public officials or employees who tolerate and protect large-scale agricultural smuggling, and other market abuses, namely but not limited to, hoarding, profiteering, or cartel in the country. The House of Representatives passed its version of the proposed law, House Bill No. 9284 on September 27, 2023, while the Senate passed its counterpart Senate Bill No. 2432 on December 12, 2023. The Bicolano lawmaker had previously likened hoarders and price manipulators of agricultural goods to the “devil” and said they needed to be jailed for their crimes. “Parang walang katapusan ang pagtaas ng presyo ng pagkain at iba pang bilihin, na lalong pinapalala ng mga walanghiyang smugglers and hoarders. Marami na ngang hirap sa buhay, lalo pa nilang pinapabigat ang pasanin ng ating mga kababayan. Demonyo lang talaga ang mag-iisip na ayos lang magutom ang kapwa basta kumita sila,” Lee said. “Pirma na nga lang po ng Pangulong Bongbong Marcos ang hihintayin natin at ganap nang maisasabatas ang mas pinalakas na Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Law. Panahon na para maipakulong ang mga nasa likod ng mga krimeng nagpapabagsak sa kabuhayan ng ating mga magsasaka, mangingisda, at sa ating ekonomiya. Dapat lahat sila masampolan!” the solon from Bicol added. Earlier, Lee also filed House Resolution No. 1600 to probe the proliferation of online selling of smuggled onions and protect local farmers and consumers. “Panahon na para putulin ang sungay ng mga agri-smugglers, hoarders at price manipulators. Sapat na kita at proteksyon sa local food producers at consumers, gawin na natin. Murang pagkain, gawin na natin!” he said. Leave a Comment Cancel reply Logged in as admin_wilbertleeagriadvocacy. Edit your profile. Log out? Required fields are marked * Message* Latest Post 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 18 Nov 2024 Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE 07 Nov 2024 Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Categories Advocay Legislation Support Share on Social Media Legislation August 7, 2024 Hot News AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Cong. Wilbert Lee: Supporting Farmers is Best Solution to Curb Inflation Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation Cong. Wilbert Lee: “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka” Cong. Wilbert Lee Champions Bigger Budget for Agriculture in 2025 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges PhilHealth, PCA to Fulfill Commitments to Coconut Farmers’ Health Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Calls on PhilHealth, PCA to Deliver Health Benefits for Coconut Farmers
Lee Determined To Increase Agri Budget
August 6, 2024 Lee Determined To Increase Agri Budget Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” T. Lee said he will push for a bigger budget for agriculture once deliberations begin for the 2025 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) at the House of Representatives. “Kahapon sa DBCC (Development Budget Coordination Committee) briefing, natalakay itong pagkaltas sa pondo ng agrikultura. Nakahanda po tayong amyendahan ang budget para dito para madagdagan at maiwasto dahil para sa atin, ito ang dapat na prayoridad at dagdagan ng suporta ng gobyerno,” Lee said. “With this year’s drought brought about by the El Niño and the La Niña in the coming months, we need adequate financial support to boost productivity and re-energize the sector to achieve food sufficiency and food security,” he added. The P6.352-trillion National Expenditure Program (NEP) was officially turned over to the House of Representatives by the Department of Budget and Management on July 29. Under the NEP, the proposed budget for the agriculture sector – which includes the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), and all their attached agencies and corporations – suffered a P10.4-billion reduction, down to P211.3 billion from P221.7 billion in this year’s General Appropriations Act (GAA). According to DBM, bulk of the budget will be used to fund agriculture modernization programs as well as cash aid to farmers and fisherfolk. Lee said the proposed P211 billion agriculture budget in the NEP was a far cry from the P513.81 billion target budget announced by the DA in April. “We are supportive of the original proposed budget for the DA, especially since around P225.83 billion out of the target P513-billion budget was supposed to be for agricultural modernization as well as to improve the anti-smuggling efforts of DA’s bureaus,” he said. The Bicolano lawmaker has been a vocal supporter for modernization of the agriculture sector. He has been persistent in urging the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) to efficiently use their budget to provide farm equipment and post-harvest facilities to increase agricultural workers’ production and address soaring food prices. The solon from Bicol likewise advocates for additional post-harvest facilities and market linkages for farmers and fisherfolk through his House Bill (HB) No. 3958 or the “Post-Harvest Facilities Support Act” and HB 3957 or the “Kadiwa Agri-Food Terminal Act.” Morever, Lee undercored the importance of the digitization of the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA), saying: “Ang mga panukalang ito na itinutulak natin ang sisiguro na sapat at tuloy-tuloy ang ayuda ng gobyerno mula sa pagtatanim, anihan, hanggang sa paghahatid at pagbebenta ng produkto sa merkado.” “Pera ng gobyerno, pera ng taumbayan. Dapat meaningful spending. Walang underspending, walang pagwawaldas. Kapag nag-invest tayo sa agrikultura at sinuportahan ang mga magsasaka at mangingisda, tataas ang kanilang produksyon, hindi tayo masyadong aasa sa imported, bababa ang presyo ng pagkain at iba pang bilihin, at gagaan ang pasanin ng ating mga kababayan.” “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka at mangingisda—ang ating ‘food security soldiers’. Kaya kailangan na laging top priority ang agrikultura. Sa pangunguna ng ating food security soldiers, murang pagkain, gawin na natin!” he added. Leave a Comment Cancel reply Logged in as admin_wilbertleeagriadvocacy. Edit your profile. Log out? Required fields are marked * Message* Latest Post 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 18 Nov 2024 Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE 07 Nov 2024 Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Categories Advocay Legislation Support Share on Social Media Legislation August 6, 2024 Hot News AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Cong. Wilbert Lee: Supporting Farmers is Best Solution to Curb Inflation Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation Cong. Wilbert Lee: “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka” Cong. Wilbert Lee Champions Bigger Budget for Agriculture in 2025 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges PhilHealth, PCA to Fulfill Commitments to Coconut Farmers’ Health Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Calls on PhilHealth, PCA to Deliver Health Benefits for Coconut Farmers
Provide Adequate Support, Alternative Livelihood For Fisherfolk Affected By Bataan Oil Spill – Lee
July 31, 2024 Provide Adequate Support, Alternative Livelihood For Fisherfolk Affected By Bataan Oil Spill – Lee Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” T. Lee stressed that the government should provide alternative sources of income for approximately 19,000 fisherfolk who are potentially affected by the oil spill from the sunken MT Terranova. In his House Resolution No. 1825, Lee seeks to assess the impact to the environment and livelihood of fisherfolk and residents of the oil spill in Limay, Bataan to implement urgent interventions and assistance to help the affected communities and identify possible accountability among those involved in this accident. On July 25, the said oil tanker capsized and sank 3.6 nautical miles east of Limay, Bataan, carrying some 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) earlier estimated that in a worst-case scenario, the oil spill could affect 11,000 fisherfolk in Bataan and 8,000 in Bulacan, with an income loss of P83.8 million and P63 million per month, respectively. “Thousands of fisherfolk are on the brink of losing their livelihood for months due to the oil spill. Katiting na nga lang ang kinikita ng ating mga mangingisda, posible pang mabawasan o wala na talaga silang kitain dahil sa oil spill na ito. Kailangang bilisan ang pagtukoy sa mga apektadong komunidad at ang pamamahagi ng ayuda at alternatibong pagkakakitaan lalo na kung magdeklara ng fishing ban sa Bataan, Bulacan, Cavite at iba pang apektadong lugar,” Lee said. With this, the Bicolano lawmaker called for optimizing existing government programs such as the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (DOLE-TUPAD) program, among others, to help affected fisherfolk and residents who might lose income. “Kailangang magdoble kayod ang gobyerno sa implementasyon ng mga programang tulad ng TUPAD para sa mga lugar na inabot na ng oil spill. Bukod sa peligro sa kalusugan, mahirap na hamon para sa mga apektado nating kababayan ang pagkukunan ng pagkain at pagkakakitaan,” he said. He added: “Isa pang mahalagang malaman dito yung coverage ng insurance ng barkong tumaob. Kailangang matukoy ang accountability ng kumpanya ng barko at dapat malaman ang kompensasyon sa mga mangingisda at residente hindi lang sa panandaliang panahon, kundi pati na ang pangmatagalang epekto sa kanilang kabuhayan at pamumuhay.” “Kailangang agarang maipaabot ang tulong na dapat maipaabot. Dapat managot ang dapat managot!” Lee stressed. While the solon recognized the fast response of Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in putting up containment to fend off the tide of toxic slick and the government’s immediate creation of an inter-agency task force, he said that the country, being an archipelago, should be genuinely capacitated in mitigating effects of oil spills. “Dahil nakikita natin na madalas mangyari ang ganitong aksidente at malawak ang mapaminsalang epekto nito—may mga ulat na umabot na sa Metro Manila ang tumagas na langis mula sa Limay, Bataan at mayroong panibagong barko na naman na sumadsad ngayon sa Mariveles na nagdudulot na rin ng oil spill—dapat handa na lagi dito ang gobyerno. Hindi pwedeng reactionary tayo o saka pa lang tayo naghahanda ng gagawin kapag may nangyayaring ganito,” Lee remarked. “Bukod sa pagkakaroon ng malinaw na mekanismo, magkaroon na rin tayo ng sapat at modernong kagamitan para tugunan ang mga oil spill. Hindi tayo dapat laging nakaasa sa ibang bansa sa aspektong ito.” “Filipinos deserve better crisis management to protect their livelihood so we should demand better from the government. Buhay at kabuhayan ng ating mga kababayan ang nakataya lagi dito”, he added. As the country celebrates “Agriculturists’ Month” this July, Lee undercored the importance of providing support for fisherfolk and farmers whom he considers as “food security soldiers” in developing the agriculture sector and easing the plight of Filipinos. “Prayoridad natin ang pagsuporta sa ating mga magsasaka at mga mangingisda dahil sila ang nagsisigurong may pagkain ang bawat pamilyang Pilipino. Kapag may tiyak silang kabuhayan, may sapat silang kita, gaganahan silang taasan ang produksyon, abot-kamay ang murang pagkain, at mawawala ang pangamba na magkasakit dahil may pambili ng gamot o pambayad sa ospital,. Winner Tayo Lahat!” Lee said. Leave a Comment Cancel reply Logged in as admin_wilbertleeagriadvocacy. Edit your profile. Log out? Required fields are marked * Message* Latest Post 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 25 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Categories Advocay Legislation Support Share on Social Media Support July 31, 2024 Hot News Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Cong. Wilbert Lee: Supporting Farmers is Best Solution to Curb Inflation Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation Cong. Wilbert Lee: “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka” Cong. Wilbert Lee Champions Bigger Budget for Agriculture in 2025 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays
Sapat Dapat! Amid The Looming La Niña, Gov’t Must Boost Rice Buffer Stock, Pass ‘Cheaper Rice Act’ – Lee
June 26, 2024 Sapat Dapat! Amid The Looming La Niña, Gov’t Must Boost Rice Buffer Stock, Pass ‘Cheaper Rice Act’ – Lee With La Niña expected to arrive in the country in the third quarter of the year, AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” T. Lee said the government must shore up its rice buffer stock to last for 15 to 30 days during disasters and emergency situations. According to Lee, “our inventory must be sufficient to cover 15 to 30 days of national consumption or equivalent to at least 350,000 metric tons (MT) in case of emergencies or disasters. This is the optimal level of rice buffer stock stated in the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL).” “Pero ayon sa National Food Authority (NFA) kamakailan, may rice inventory ang bansa na aabot lang sa loob ng apat na araw kung magkaroon ng sakuna o emergency. Nakakabahala ito dahil kulang ang reserbang ito,” he said. According to the NFA, its palay procurement reached nearly 3.37 million 50-kilo bags as of June 13, equivalent to 168,262 metric tons (MT). While the solon recognized the efforts of NFA to boost the rice inventory by buying local palay for higher price, he maintained that this mechanism should be institutionalized. Lee then called for the urgent passage of his proposed House Bill No. 9020 or the “Cheaper Rice Act” which will mandate the government to implement a “price subsidy” program to buy palay from local farmers at a higher farmgate price to ensure their profit and entice them to boost their production. “Sa panukalang ito, isasabatas ang dagdag o patong na P5 to P10 sa prevailing farmgate price per kilo ng palay na bibilhin ng gobyerno sa mga lokal na magsasaka. Sa mas mataas na kita, magpupursige silang taasan ang produksyon, na magpapababa naman sa presyo ng bigas at iba pang bilihin,” explained Lee. “Our farmers deserve better prices for their products, so it is only fair that we demand better for them,” he added. The solon from Bicol further stressed that the best defense against inflation is supporting farmers whom he considers as “food security soldiers.” “Kapag nag-invest tayo sa agrikultura, sa pagprotekta sa kabuhayan ng ating mga magsasaka, tataas ang kanilang ani at kita, hindi na tayo aasa sa imported, magiging sapat at abot-kaya ang pagkain sa bansa,” Lee stated. “Ang matitipid ng ating mga kababayan sa bagsak-presyong bilihin ay dagdag pantustos naman sa iba pang pangangailangan tulad na lang kapag may nagkasakit sa pamilya.” “Wala dapat namamatay sa gutom o kawalan ng sapat na pagkain. Winner Tayo Lahat sa pangmatagalang pakinabang at ginhawang hatid ng pagsuporta sa ating mga magsasaka,” he added Leave a Reply Cancel reply Logged in as admin_wilbertleeagriadvocacy. Edit your profile. Log out? Required fields are marked * Message* Latest Post 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 18 Nov 2024 Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE 07 Nov 2024 Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Categories Advocay Legislation Support Share on Social Media Advocacy June 26, 2024 Hot News AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Cong. Wilbert Lee: Supporting Farmers is Best Solution to Curb Inflation Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation Cong. Wilbert Lee: “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka” Cong. Wilbert Lee Champions Bigger Budget for Agriculture in 2025 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges PhilHealth, PCA to Fulfill Commitments to Coconut Farmers’ Health Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Calls on PhilHealth, PCA to Deliver Health Benefits for Coconut Farmers
Real Freedom Is Freedom From High Food Prices, Defending What Is Ours – Lee
June 12, 2024 Real Freedom Is Freedom From High Food Prices, Defending What Is Ours – Lee AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” T. Lee on Wednesday said that real freedom lies on the ability to buy food at lower prices and maximize our country’s natural resources for the benefit of Filipinos. Attending the 126th Independence Day Celebration in Cebu City, Lee stressed that “while we celebrate the triumph forged by our heroes who fought and liberated us from foreign invaders, we must free Filipinos from perennial problems and sufferings.” “Sana nga po dumating ang araw na maranasan ng bawat Pilipino ang tunay na kalayaan,” the Bicolao lawmaker said. “Kalayaan mula sa labis na hirap ng buhay. Kalayaan mula sa sobrang taas na presyo ng pagkain at bilihin. Kalayaan mula sa takot o pangamba na may magkasakit sa pamilya dahil walang pambili ng gamot o pambayad sa ospital. Kalayaan mula sa mga kurakot kaya hindi nabibigay sa Pilipino ang dapat para sa Pilipino. Kalayaan mula sa kawalan ng hustisya, sa hindi pantay na trato o turing sa mayaman at sa mahirap.” “Ito po ang tunay na kalayaan. Pwede kumain nang sapat. Pwede magkasakit na hindi mababaon sa utang o malulugmok sa kahirapan ang pamilya. Pwede asahan ang gobyerno na hindi pababayaan ang taumbayan,” he added. Aside from supporting our “food security soldiers” to address inflation, Lee underscored the importance of protecting and maximizing our natural resources especially amid reports of new artificial islands being built by Vietnam at the Spratly Islands and China’s recurring aggressions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). “Kung agrisibo ang ibang bansa, dapat mas agrisibo tayo sa pag-develop at pagtatanggol ng ating teritoryo, para sa kapakinabangan ng ating local food producers at consumers,” he said. “We need to step up our game and defend what is ours. Let us prioritize the development of our natural resources to increase our fishery output, address our energy problem and provide more jobs to many Filipinos,” the solon from Bicol added. Lee is the principal author of House Bill No. 9011 or the “Fishing Shelters and Ports Act” which aims to establish fishing shelters and ports in nine occupied maritime features in the WPS and Philippine Rise. Under the said measure, the fishing shelters and ports shall be established in the islands of Lawak, Kota, Likas, Pag-asa, Parola, Panata, Patag, Rizal Reef and Ayungin Shoal. “Huwag nating hayaan na magising na naman tayo isang araw na nakamkam na ng dayuhan ang ating mga teritoryo at likas na yaman. This poses a threat not only to Filipino livelihoods but also to Filipino lives. With less food production, consumers bear the brunt of high prices of goods,” the lawmaker pointed out. With an optimistic note, Lee challenged Filipinos that this year’s Independence Day is “a reminder to all of us of what we truly deserve.” “We deserve better so we should demand better. As we rekindle the spirit of what our heroes fought for over a century ago, let us be firm to fight for a just, inclusive, and compassionate society,” he said. “Ang tunay na malayang bansa ay isang bansa na may malasakit, kumakalinga at pinoprotekhan ang taumbayan; isang bansa kung saan Winner Tayo Lahat!” he added. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Logged in as admin_wilbertleeagriadvocacy. Edit your profile. Log out? Required fields are marked * Message* Latest Post 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 25 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Categories Advocay Legislation Support Share on Social Media Advocacy June 12, 2024 Hot News Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Cong. Wilbert Lee: Supporting Farmers is Best Solution to Curb Inflation Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation Cong. Wilbert Lee: “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka” Cong. Wilbert Lee Champions Bigger Budget for Agriculture in 2025 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays
Supporting Farmers Is Best Defense Against Inflation – Lee
June 10, 2024 Supporting Farmers Is Best Defense Against Inflation – Lee Amid the approved rice tariff cut and high inflation, AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” T. Lee said that supporting local farmers will effectively address inflation. Speaking at the Kapihan sa QC forum on Sunday, Lee said that while the tariff cut is a way to lower the price of rice to curb inflation and ease the burden of consumers, it must be complemented with stronger support to local farmers which he consider the long term solution to the perennial problem of high food prices. “Sa bawat polisiya ng gobyerno, dapat laging ikonsidera yung ating local food producers, ang ating mga magsasaka. Sila ang aaray dito dahil isang epekto ng pagbaba ng taripa ay pagdagsa ng imported products,” the Bicolano lawmaker said. “Hindi makakasabay o makaka-compete sa pagbaha ng imported products ang ating mga lokal na magsasaka; lalo silang malulugi o di kaya’y malulubog sa utang. Papatayin nito ang kabuhayan ng ating mga magsasaka,” he added. The solon underscored that importation is only a short-term solution, saying, “hindi tayo pwedeng nakaasa lang sa importation. Sa dami ng nangyayari sa ibang mga bansa, tulad ng gyera, sakuna, El Niño, climate change, posibleng tumigil ang ibang bansa sa pag-export. Hindi natin kontrolado ang export policy nila.” The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) board approved on June 3 the new Comprehensive Tariff Program for 2024-2028, which includes reduction of rice tariff for in- and out-quota rates from 35% to 15%. Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), meanwhile, released the May 2024 inflation rate which is at 3.9% from 3.8% the previous month, where food inflation remains as the largest contributor. “Pumalo sa 3.9% ang inflation rate noong Mayo at presyo pa rin ng pagkain ang numero unong humahatak dito pataas. Naniniwala tayo na mas epektibo nating mapapababa ito, hindi sa importasyon, kundi sa dagdag na suporta sa ating mga magsasaka!” Lee said. The lawmaker from Bicol has been pushing for the Cheaper Rice Act, which mandates the Department of Agriculture (DA) and other concerned government agencies to buy local palay with additional P5-P10 than the prevailing farmgate prices. This will ensure increase in income of local farmers while consumers will eventually enjoy lower rice prices in the market. The solon likewise advocates for additional post-harvest facilities and market linkages for farmers through his House Bill (HB) No. 3958 or the “Post-Harvest Facilities Support Act” and HB 3957 or the “Kadiwa Agri-Food Terminal Act.” Lee, who just came recently from a 2-day visit in multiple towns and cities in Bulacan including San Jose del Monte, Sta. Maria, Bocaue, Pandi, Meycauayan, Guiguinto, Malolos, Plaridel and Calumpit, shared that one of the main concerns of farmers are the lack of post-harvest facilities. “Para madagdagan ang kita ng ating mga magsasaka at masiguro ang mas mataas na produksyon, dapat sapat at tuloy-tuloy ang suporta ng gobyerno mula sa pagtatanim, anihan, hanggang sa paghahatid at pagbebenta ng produkto sa merkado,” the solon from Bicol said. “Kawalan ng hustisya kung ang mga magsasakang nagbibigay sa atin ng makakain ay sila pang walang maihain na pagkain sa kanilang pamilya. Our local farmers deserve better so we should demand better for them!” “Kapag may sapat na kita ang mga magsasaka, mas ma-e-engganyo silang palaguin ang kanilang kabuhayan. Sa pagtaas ng kanilang produksyon, dadami ang supply, at bababa ang presyo sa merkado. Makakatipid dito ang bawat pamilya kung saan mas may magagamit na sila sa iba pang pangangailangan, tulad sa pagpapagamot kapag nagkasakit. Sa dagdag na suporta sa mga magsasaka, mangingisda at agricultural workers, Winner Tayo Lahat!” Leave a Comment Cancel reply Logged in as admin_wilbertleeagriadvocacy. Edit your profile. Log out? Required fields are marked * Message* Latest Post 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 25 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Categories Advocay Legislation Support Share on Social Media Advocacy, Support June 10, 2024 Hot News Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Cong. Wilbert Lee: Supporting Farmers is Best Solution to Curb Inflation Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation Cong. Wilbert Lee: “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka” Cong. Wilbert Lee Champions Bigger Budget for Agriculture in 2025 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays
Optimize PH Carabao Center To Boost Dairy Industry – Lee
June 6, 2024 Optimize PH Carabao Center To Boost Dairy Industry – Lee AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Wise” T. Lee on Wednesday said that optimizing the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) by increasing its budget and upgrading its research and innovation, will help revive the dairy industry post-El Niño. This, after the National Dairy Authority (NDA) sought P2.5 billion budget to support the procurement of at least 5,000 imported cattle and setting up of laboratory facilities in its six regional offices to boost the country’s local milk production. Lee, who just came recently from a 2-day visit in multiple towns and cities in Bulacan including San Jose del Monte, Sta. Maria, Bocaue, Pandi, Meycauayan, Guiguinto, Malolos, Plaridel and Calumpit, said, “We support the goal of the NDA to increase the dairy production and develop our local dairy industry. Kaya isinusulong rin natin na madagdagan ang budget ng mga ahensiya ng gobyerno na may kinalaman sa pagpapalago nito.” The Bicolano lawmaker said aside from procuring cattle, research and development on carabaos also need to be boosted. “Research and innovation on both cattle and carabaos are vital to ensuring the dairy industry continues to improve practices and minimize impacts of extreme weather conditions while improving milk production,” he said. “Sa ngayon halos P89 million lang ang nakalaan para sa Research and Development ng National Carabao Development Program ng PCC at P274 million naman para sa kanilang Herd Build-up of Genetically-Improved Dairy Buffalos. Dapat madagdagan ang suporta natin dito, ” he added. “Carabaos are hardy, low-maintenance animals. They can thrive on local grasses and do not need expensive feeds, making them well-suited for small-scale farmers. Apart from their agricultural use, carabaos also provide milk,” he further said. The Herd Build-up program is set to bolster local dairy stocks and local milk production through a series of strategic initiatives. Additional funds will facilitate the procurement of new dairy buffalos, enhance local production at PCC-operated nucleus dairy buffalo farms and agistment farms. It will also provide essential breeding services to Farmers Cooperative and Associations (FCA) partners and dairy buffalo health and nutritional services. More funding will also help enhance and develop dairy buffalo farms and other dairy buffalo facilities of the PCC According to Dairy Confederation of the Philippines, there are currently 2.6 million cows in the country but only 27,000 are used for dairy. On the other hand, there are 2.8 million carabaos but only 19,000 are dairy types. “Mahalaga na sa pagbibigay ng dagdag na budget, may kongkretong plano, maayos na implementasyon at mga pasilidad. Halimbawa, we cannot afford to import cattles used for dairy without proper acclimatization facility, dahil kung wala nito, marami talagang mamamatay pagka-import. Hindi pwedeng ura-urada dahil para lang tayong nagtatapon ng pondo,” the solon from Bicol pointed out. “Napakalayo pa ng ating bansa sa pagkamit ng milk sufficiency. Kaya dapat maging kayod-kalabaw din ang gobyerno sa pagsuporta sa mga ahensya para mapaunlad ang local dairy industry at hindi tayo laging dependent sa importation. We deserve better and it is our right to demand better services and demand more opportunities in our country.” “Winner Tayo Lahat sa pagpapaunlad sa bawat sektor at industriya na lumilikha ng tiyak at karagdagang trabaho, sa pagsusulong ng dagdag na kita, sapat, abot-kaya at masustansyang pagkain sa bawat pamilya, at pagkakaroon ng kapanatagan ng loob na magkasakit man, hindi malulubog sa hirap at utang dahil sa patas at mapagmalasakit na serbisyong pangkalusugan,” Leave a Reply Cancel reply Logged in as admin_wilbertleeagriadvocacy. Edit your profile. Log out? Required fields are marked * Message* Latest Post 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 25 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Categories Advocay Legislation Support Share on Social Media Advocacy June 6, 2024 Hot News Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Cong. Wilbert Lee: Supporting Farmers is Best Solution to Curb Inflation Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation Cong. Wilbert Lee: “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka” Cong. Wilbert Lee Champions Bigger Budget for Agriculture in 2025 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays
Amid Agri Products Wastage, Lee Calls For Strengthening Agri Value-Chain, Market Linkages To Ensure Farmers’ Profit
May 16, 2024 Amid Agri Products Wastage, Lee Calls For Strengthening Agri Value-Chain, Market Linkages To Ensure Farmers’ Profit “Sayang na naman. Paulit-ulit na lang.” This was how AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Wise” T. Lee lamented the recent news of Isabela farmers dumping thousands of kilos of unsold mangoes due to the very low price being offered by middlemen and wholesalers. “Nakalulungkot at talagang nakapanghihinayang ang ganitong balita na pinipili na lang itapon ng ating mga magsasaka ang kanilang ani dahil wala silang mapagbentahan, at kung meron man, lugi pa sila sa gagastusin,” the solon said. “Pera, pagod at oras ang ipinuhunan dito ng ating mga magsasaka, tapos ang ending, wala silang kikitain ni singko? Walang naiiwan sa kanila, kung meron man, utang,” he added. According to the Bicolano lawmaker, this has become the grim reality of Filipino farmers and it is an injustice to sit idly while these problems persist. “Paulit-ulit na ang ganitong scenario, may viral video, ma-me-media, tapos magsasabi ng solusyon ang gobyerno. Pero pagkatapos ng ilang buwan, meron na namang mangyayari na kaparehong insidente. Sino ang lalong nakakawawa dito? Hindi pwedeng pang-press release lang ang tulong sa ating mga magsasaka!”, Lee stressed. “Sariwa pa sa alaala natin yung pinagtatadtad na repolyo sa Benguet para maging pataba at isang truck ng kamatis sa Nueva Vizcaya na itinapon na lang sa gilid ng kalsada dahil sa napakababang bentahan sa merkado. Nandyan din yung P100 kada 5 kilo ng luya sa Nueva Vizcaya, at yung oversupply ng bawang sa Batanes at marami pang produkto na kung hindi man nasasayang at pinamimigay ay ibinebenta na lang nang palugi,” he added. The solon from Bicol then reiterated his call to strategize and strengthen the country’s agri value chain to avoid wastage or losses along the process. He also underscored the importance of providing market linkages to facilitate the selling of agri products and ensure the income of farmers. “When we reviewed the 2024 DA budget, P55.97 billion was allotted for pre-harvest activities, while the allocated budget for post-harvest activities is just P16.40 billion,” Lee pointed out. “Matagal na natin itong ipinapanawagan. Kung mananatiling ganito ang strategy ng gobyerno, talagang uulit lang ang mga problema. We are not saying that we need to cut the budget for pre-harvest activities dahil mahalaga rin ito para mapataas ang produksyon. Kailangan ng sapat at tuloy-tuloy na suporta mula sa pagtatanim, anihan, hanggang sa paghahatid at pagbebenta ng produkto sa merkado,” he added. Lee renewed his call for the urgent passage of his proposed House Bill No. 3958 or the “Post-Harvest Facilities Support Act”, which mandates the government to fund the construction of warehouses, cold storages, rice mills, transport facilities, dryers, and threshers, among others. He also pushed for the passage of HB No. 3957 or the “Kadiwa Agri-Food Terminal Act” to scale up and institutionalize Kadiwa stores in every city and municipality which serve as a venue for farmers and fisherfolk to sell produce directly to consumers at cheaper prices, liberating them from the control of unscrupulous traders and middlemen. “Imbes na pagkalugi ang madalas nangyayari kapag may oversupply, baguhin natin ang ending nito kung saan Winner Tayo Lahat. Siguruhin natin na may pagdadalhan at mabebentahan ang mga ani para matiyak ang kita ng mga magsasaka, mas ma-engganyo silang magpatuloy sa pagpapataas ng produksyon, na magpapababa naman sa presyo ng bilihin,” the lawmaker said. Sa paraang ito, bukod sa maiibsan ang pasanin ng ating mga kababayan, mababawasan din ang pangamba nila sa pagkakasakit, sa takot na lalong malugmok sa kahirapan dahil walang pambili ng gamot o pambayad sa ospital.” “Hindi tayo pwedeng maging manhid sa ganitong trahedya sa kabuhayan ng ating mga magsasaka. Filipino farmers deserve better and we must demand better services for them, our food security soldiers,” he added. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Logged in as admin_wilbertleeagriadvocacy. Edit your profile. Log out? Required fields are marked * Message* Latest Post 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 25 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Categories Advocay Legislation Support Share on Social Media Advocacy May 16, 2024 Hot News Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Amid calamities AGRI PL CALLS TO FAST-TRACK EXPANSION OF CROP INSURANCE COVERAGE Cong. Wilbert Lee Stresses Farmer Support as Inflation Solution at Kapihan sa QC Cong. Wilbert Lee: Supporting Farmers is Best Solution to Curb Inflation Cong. Wilbert Manoy “Wise” Lee Advocates for Stronger Support to Farmers Amid Inflation Cong. Wilbert Lee: “Ang pinakamabisang solusyon sa inflation ay pagtulong sa mga magsasaka” Cong. Wilbert Lee Champions Bigger Budget for Agriculture in 2025 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays