Lee Welcomes NFA’s Higher Palay Buying Price, Bats For Cheaper Rice Act
May 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 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 Support May 14, 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
Amending RTL Only A Start, Cleansing Of NFA Crucial To Bringing Down The Price Of Rice – Lee
May 9, 2024 Amending RTL Only A Start, Cleansing Of NFA Crucial To Bringing Down The Price Of Rice – Lee AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Wise” T. Lee lauded the approval of the proposed amendments to Republic Act No. 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) by the House Committee on Agriculture and Food, but also reiterated the need to purge corrupt officials in the National Food Authority (NFA) to lower the price of rice. Lee, who earlier filed House Resolution No. 1636 to review and assess the impact of RTL said, “Natutuwa tayo na aprubado na ng Komite ang isinulong nating pag-amyenda sa RTL, para mas mapalawak pa ang mga benepisyo nito, at matuldukan ang mga nagpabigat lang sa pasanin ng ating local food producers at consumers.” “Pangunahin sa layunin natin na maibalik ang mandato ng NFA na pagbili ng palay sa mga lokal na magsasaka sa presyong sigurado ang kanilang kita, at pagbebenta nito sa merkado sa halagang hindi mabigat sa bulsa ng consumers. Maiiwasan din dito ang mga mapagsamantalang middleman at traders, na binabarat ang mga magsasaka at nagpapatong pa ng malaking halaga sa presyo ng bigas,” Lee pointed out. “Sa pamamagitan nito, bukod sa tataas ang kita ng mga magsasaka, gaganahan din silang pataasin ang kanilang produksyon, na eventually, magpapamura sa bigas at hahatak pababa sa overall inflation,” the solon added. According to the Bicolano lawmaker, restoring the NFA power to sell cheaper rice in the market would significantly drive down the retail prices of the staple food to as low as P37 per kilo. “Pero para mangyari ito, dapat may tapat at maaasahan tayong liderato ng NFA na babaston sa ahensya, para hindi na ito pamugaran ng anomalya. Tungkulin ng NFA na tulungan ang mga magsasaka at consumers, hindi maging kasosyo ng mga traders,” Lee stressed. “Bukod dito, dapat ding maging seryoso ang mga ahensya ng gobyerno para sugpuin at may masampolan na sa agri smuggling na pumapatay sa kabuhayan ng ating local food producers,” he added. As to the increasing the budget allocation for farm machinery and equipment to be sourced from the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), Lee reiterated that this would greatly help more farmers and fisherfolk if the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) continue to commit in simplifying and streamlining its requirements to avail of these machineries that he persistently pushed for. “Gaano man po kaganda ang isang batas, kung pupugak-pugak naman ang implementasyon at pahirapang matanggap ang serbisyong dapat ihatid nito, eh wala rin itong silbi. Our local food producers and consumers deserve better, so we must demand for better services and implementation of our laws to help them improved their plight,” Lee said. “Hindi na puwede ang puwede na. Gumagawa at nagpapatupad tayo ng mga polisiya at batas para maging Winner Tayo Lahat. Ang dapat na tutok natin: dagdag na trabaho, dagdag na kita, sapat at murang pagkain at maaasahang serbisyong pangkalusugan para sa lahat para mabawasan ang pangamba ng bawat pamilya na lalong malubog sa kahirapan, ” he added. The RTL was signed into law in 2019 supposedly to reduce the price of rice and help farmers who would be hurt by the removal of quantitative restrictions – or a ceiling on the volume – on imported rice. The quantitative restrictions were replaced by tariffs of 35% to 40%. 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 9, 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
Lee Raises Alarm Over Inconsistent El Niño Damage Data From DA, NDRRMC
May 5, 2024 Lee Raises Alarm Over Inconsistent El Niño Damage Data From DA, NDRRMC AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Wise” T. Lee has underscored the importance of consistent and accurate government figures being reported on agricultural damage due to El Niño, particularly data from the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). “Nakakalito ang mga lumalabas na datos mula sa DA at NDRRMC. Bukod sa hindi nagtutugma, napakalaki ng diperensya ng inilalabas nilang mga numero” Lee said. “Ayon sa DA, umabot na sa halos P6 billion ang pinsala sa agrikultura sa bansa dulot ng El Niño noong April 30. Sa inilabas naman na situation report ng NDRRMC noong April 29, nasa mahigit P1.6 billion ang tinatayang pinsala sa agrikultura. Dapat linawin kung bakit magkaiba at alin ang dapat sundin dito,” he added. According to the DA, the blistering temperatures brought about by the El Niño have caused P5.9 billion in damage to the agricultural sector, affecting 113,585 farmers and fisherfolk in 12 regions in the country and devastating a total of 104,402 hectares of agricultural areas. The latest report from the NDRRMC, meanwhile, shows 46,805 farmers and fisherfolk affected by the extreme heat, with 44,437 hectares of crops impacted for a total of more than P1.6 billion in agricultural damage. “The appropriate mitigation and response to El Niño is dependent on accurate data, especially since this is the basis for the assistance being given by the government to those affected by the phenomenon. How much will be given to how many is reliant on the reports being published kaya sana po ay magkaroon ng maayos na komunikasyon sa pagitan ng mga ahensiya ng gobyerno na nag-a-assess at naglalabas ng mga ganitong datos,” the Bicolano lawmaker stressed. According to the DA, it has so far provided at least P2.18 billion worth of assistance to El Niño devastated farmers and fisherfolk. The agency said that its regional offices have provided production support worth P658.22 million and P1.06 billion financial assistance to rice farmers in Cagayan Valley and Mimaropa. “Napaka-crucial ng tamang datos para makapaghatid ng sapat at mabilis na tulong sa mga nangangailangan. Deserve ng ating mga kababayan ang mas maayos na serbisyo, mabawasan ang kanilang mga pasanin, at maibsan ang kanilang pangamba na lalong mabaon sa hirap at utang sa panahon ng kagipitan tulad na lang kung may magkasakit sa pamilya,” the solon said. “We deserve better, and we must demand better for efficient and swift services. Siguradong Winner Tayo Lahat sa pagkakaisa, malasakit at koordinasyon ng mga ahensya ng gobyerno at taumbayan, para sa mabilis na pagresponde at pamamahagi ng ayuda, lalo na sa panahon ng sakuna. 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 5, 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
Restoring NFA Power To Sell Rice To Bring Price To As Low As P37/Kilo — Lee
May 1, 2024 Restoring NFA Power To Sell Rice To Bring Price To As Low As P37/Kilo — Lee In the House deliberations on amending Republic Act No. 11023 or the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Wise” T. Lee has reiterated his call to restore the National Food Authority’s (NFA) power to buy palay from local farmers which would be sold at a cheaper price in the market for as low as P37 per kilo. According to Lee, if NFA were allowed to buy local palay and sell it to the public, it might result in P37 to P40 per kilo in the market, from the current P51 to P57 per kilo. “Sa pag-amyenda ng RTL, dapat ibalik na ang mandato ng NFA na pagbili ng palay sa lokal na mga magsasaka, hindi lang para siguruhin ang kita ng ating local food producers, kundi para mapababa rin ang presyo ng bigas,” the Bicolano lawmaker said. “Dapat may choice ang consumers, hindi yung napipilitan silang bumili ng mahal na bigas na napatungan na ng mga traders ang presyo. Kung maibabalik ang mandatong ito sa NFA, mapoprotektahan ang kabuhayan ng ating mga magsasaka at ma-e-engganyo silang pataasin ang produksyon. Mas makakamura sa NFA rice ang marami nating kababayan, kung saan ang matitipid na budget ay pwede nang magamit sa ibang pangangailangan, tulad sa panahon ng pagkakasakit,” he added. The enactment of the RTL in 2019 prohibited the NFA from directly selling rice stocks to the market and limited its function to storing buffer stocks for calamities. During the recent briefing at the House Committee on Agriculture and Food, the Department of Agriculture (DA) expressed its commitment to study the proposal to restore the NFA power to sell cheaper rice to the public. The DA likewise proposed reallocation of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) as follows: 55% from 50% for farm machinery and equipment, retain 30% for Rice Seed Development, and 5% new allotment for the Soil Health Improvement, among others. Lee, who filed House Resolution No. 1636 to scrutinize the impact of RCEF, welcomed these proposed amendments underscoring that the increased allocation for farm machinery and equipment to be implemented by the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) will greatly benefit the productivity of local rice farmers. “Marami pa rin tayong mga magsasaka ang nangangailangan ng mga farm machinery and equipment. Nakuha na natin ang commitment ng DA nung budget deliberation last year na pabibilisin at sisimplehan nila ang requirements sa pamamahagi nito, kaya magandang ma-extend ang implementasyon ng RTL, siguruhin ang mas maayos na pagpapatupad nito para mas marami pa ang matulungan nating mga magsasaka—ang food security soldiers ng bansa,” Lee said. While Lee recognizes the high utilization rate of the RCEF Mechanization Program, he pointed out that there must be a proactive effort in supporting potential beneficiaries who cannot comply with the requirements due to the lack of resources such as the capacity to construct warehouses. “Sa pag-amyenda ng RTL, kaakibat ng distribusyon ng mga kagamitan, dapat mabigyan na rin ng budget ang PhilMech para mapondohan pati na ang pagpapagawa ng warehouses at storage areas, dahil talagang mahihirapan at kakapusin ang mga magsasaka sa pagpapatayo ng mga warehouse,” the solon said. “Sa pagdiriwang ng Araw ng Paggawa, kinikilala natin ang napakahalagang ambag ng ating mga manggagawa, kabilang ang ating mga agricultural workers. Deserve nila ang mas maraming benepisyo, mas mabilis na serbisyo, at mas malaking kita. Kaya let us demand better.” “Para sa ating mga magsasaka, dagdagan ang suporta sa paghahatid ng on time na ayuda, access sa mas murang farm inputs, post-harvest facilities, epektibong irigasyon tulad ng solar power irrigation at water impounding system, pati na ang pagbebenta ng produkto sa merkado nang hindi na kailangan pang dumaan sa mapagsamantalang mga middleman at traders. Kapag nagawa ito, siguradong mas mapapababa pa natin ang presyo ng bigas at iba pang agri products.” “Sa masaganang pagsasaka, mas matutugunan nila ang kanilang mga pangangailangan at ang pagkakaloob ng sapat at abot-kayang pagkain hindi lang para sa pamilya, hindi lang para sa consumers, kundi pati na rin sa buong bansa, 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, Support May 1, 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 Ballooning Agri Losses From El Niño, Lee Urges Gov’t To Bolster Mitigation Effort, Prepare For La Niña
April 25, 2024 Amid Ballooning Agri Losses From El Niño, Lee Urges Gov’t To Bolster Mitigation Effort, Prepare For La Niña With agricultural damage due to El Niño nearly at a staggering P4 billion, AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Wise” T. Lee urged the government to bolster efforts in mitigating impacts of El Niño, and prepare for the looming La Niña projected by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in June to August this year. “Napakalaki na po ng pinsalang dulot ng El Niño sa ating agrikultura, umaabot na sa halos P4 bilyon. Ikawalong El Niño na ito na dumaan sa ating bansa simula 1980, pero parang nabibigla pa rin tayo,” Lee lamented. “Pagkatapos ng delubyong ito, panibagong hamon na naman sa mga magsasaka at mangingisda ang inaasahang idudulot ng La Niña. Maging pro-active na tayo; balikan natin kung ano at saan ang mga naging kakulangan at simulan nang ipatupad ang epektibong tugon sa epekto ng mga kalamidad. Huwag na nating hintayin pa na dumating ang susunod na El Niño at manalanta ang La Niña bago tayo magpatupad ng mga polisiya na magbibigay ng proteksyon sa ating mga food security soldiers,” he added. Lee noted that the World Bank, in its 2019 study entitled “Striking a Balance: Managing El Niño and La Niña in Philippines’ Agriculture”, had already laid out policy recommendations for the government to follow in order to reduce El Niño and La Niña-related losses. These recommendations are divided into two groups: preparedness and resilience. Preparedness, according to the World Bank, are measures specifically geared toward El Niño and should, ideally, be in place before the next El Niño event occurs. These actions will significantly empower people to cope, respond, and recover from damaging El Niño events. Resilience, on the other hand, are measures that are not specifically tailored to El Niño, but that will build individuals’ and organizations’ ability to adapt to multiple forms of risks and shocks without compromising long-term development. According to the Bicolano lawmaker, the World Bank made several high priority recommendations for preparedness, including preparing response measures when El Niño-related events occur; correcting inefficiencies within the Roadmap to Address the Impact of El Niño (RAIN) and the El Niño Task Force; harnessing rebound from La Niña; assessing El Niño-related slow onset disasters and government responses; preparing detailed El Niño risk and vulnerability maps; improving El Niño-forecasting and dissemination; strengthening the early warning capacity of government agencies; strengthening Local Government Units’ (LGUs) capacity to deliver aid and services and prepare for El Niño events; and provide contingency and preparedness funding for El Niño events. “For resilience, the World Bank recommended that we sustain and scale up good practices, including identifying Philippine best practices on El Niño-related themes, and scaling up human and resource capacity,” Lee pointed out. “The path has been laid out for us by experts, all we need is to follow it,” he added. According to the Department of Agriculture (DA), damage to the agriculture sector due to El Niño has already reached P3.94 billion, covering more than 66,000 hectares and almost 74,000 farmers and fisherfolk. Citing reports from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Lee, who hails from Bicol, said a total of P267,390,512 in agricultural losses was reported in Albay on April 11, following the declaration of a state of calamity in the previous month. Albay is only one of the 103 areas in the country under state of calamity due to El Niño. “Winner Tayo Lahat kung mapapangalagaan ang buhay at hanapbuhay ng ating local food producers dahil nakasalalay sa kanila ang supply ng pagkain ng buong bansa at pagtiyak sa ating food security. Sa masagana nilang produksyon, hindi lang mapapataas ang kanilang kita, mapapababa din ang presyo ng produkto sa merkado, na siya namang ikatitipid ng consumers. Dagdag budget ito ng pamilyang Pilipino, at bawas alalahanin sa iba pang pangangailangan, lalo na sa panahon ng emergency o pagkakasakit!” Lee said. 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 April 25, 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
More Support To Local Food Producers Is Long-Term Solution To Inflation – Lee
April 23, 2024 More Support To Local Food Producers Is Long-Term Solution To Inflation – Lee AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Wise” T. Lee said on Tuesday that the government should provide more support to farmers and fisherfolk to boost local production and effectively address inflation. The Bicolano lawmaker underscored that local food producers deserve better services from the government which should be an enabler to achieve food security and cheaper basic commodities. Lee made the statement after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. issued Administrative Order (AO) No. 20 to streamline administrative procedures and policies on the importation of agricultural products and remove non-tariff barriers in a bid to secure food supply and alleviate rising domestic prices. “Nauunawaan po natin ang layunin ng AO 20 para mapababa agad ang presyo ng bilihin at mabawasan ang pasanin ng ating mga consumers. Pero maituturing po natin itong short term solution. Nakikita po natin na long-term solution sa inflation ang dagdag na suporta sa ating mga local food producers na pakikinabangan ng taumbayan—mula sa ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda hanggang sa ating mga consumers,” he said. “Hindi naman po tayo pwedeng maging import dependent habambuhay. Pabilisin man natin ang proseso ng importasyon, hindi natin makokontrol ang export policy ng ibang bansa na anytime pwedeng maghigpit, o magbago depende sa mga pangyayari tulad ng kalamidad o kaguluhan sa ibang mga bansa,” he added. Inflation rate in the country rose to 3.7% in March from the previous month’s 3.4% with food inflation as the main contributor to the overall inflation. The Bicolano lawmaker reiterated that the government must aggressively address factors contributing to food inflation to curb rising prices of basic goods. “As our food security soldiers, let us demand better for our farmers and fisherfolk. Addressing their needs will help them boost their production that will result to lower food prices. Kung mapapababa ang presyo ng pagkain, lalo na ang bigas, mapapahupa natin ang overall inflation,” the solon stressed. “Pabilisin natin ang paghahatid ng ayuda, na dapat on time dumarating sa kanila; bigyan ng access sa murang farm inputs; bigyan ng dagdag na post-harvest facilities na hindi kilo-kilometro ang requirements bago makuha; bilhin ng gobyerno ang palay sa mas mataas na presyo para masiguro ang kita ng mga lokal na magsasaka, at sugpuin ang talamak na agri-smuggling na pumapatay sa kabuhayan ng marami nating kababayan,” he added. Lee also pointed out that importation should only come should the need arises and not be the sole solution to increasing domestic prices saying, “We haven’t even fully maximized efforts to boost our local productivity, yet we are always drawn to importation.” “Pangmatagalang benepisyo ang hatid ng pagpapalakas sa lokal na produksyon. Walang talo, walang lugi, walang mapag-iiwanan, Winner Tayo Lahat,” Lee said. “Sa dagdag na suporta para sa ating mga agri workers, mapapataas ang kanilang kita, mas makukumbinsi silang taasan ang kanilang produksyon, na magpapababa sa presyo ng bilihin, at makakaambag sa ating food security. Sa paraang ito, mababawasan din ang pangamba ng ating mga kababayan sa kaliwa’t kanang gastusin, kasama na ang lalong pagkabaon sa utang kung may magkasakit sa pamilya dahil walang pantustos sa pagpapagamot,” 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, Support April 23, 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
Lee To DA: Help Farmers, Fisherfolk Register To RSBSA To Avail Fuel Subsidy
April 18, 2024 Lee To DA: Help Farmers, Fisherfolk Register To RSBSA To Avail Fuel Subsidy Amid the continuing increase in the prices of petroleum products, AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Wise” T. Lee has urged the Department of Agriculture (DA) to assist farmers and fisherfolk in registering in the Registry System for the Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) in order to avail of the agency’s fuel subsidy. “Matagal na po nating panawagan na ma-update at ma-modernize na ang RSBSA registration dahil marami tayong mga magsasaka at mangingisda na di nakakatanggap ng ayuda dahil wala sila sa listahan o di kaya ay may mali sa detalye. Sa bigat ng mga pasanin nila, sobrang nakapanghihinayang na hindi sila nakakatanggap ng tulong,” Lee said. “Bukod sa paghikayat at pag-assist ng DA sa pagpaparehistro sa RSBSA, dapat pabilisin at simplehan din ang mga requirements sa pagpaparehistro ng mga makinarya at bangka para maging kwalipikado sa fuel subsidy,” he added. The DA recently announced it has allocated P500 million to provide a one-time P3,000 fuel subsidy for farmers and fishers who have their machinery and boats registered. The latter should have boats not exceeding three metric tons in order to qualify. Diesel prices increased by P0.95 per liter this week while gasoline rose by P0.40 per liter. Oil firms raised pump prices last week by P1.10 per liter for gasoline, P1.55 for diesel, and P1.40 for kerosene. The Bicolano lawmaker appealed to the DA to give time for farmers and fishers to register their equipment as the department finalizes its guidelines for the subsidy. “Bigyan po sana ng DA ng pagkakataon na makapagrehistro ang ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda sa RSBSA habang wala pang pinal na alituntunin sa fuel subsidy,” he said. “At kapag nagsimula na ang pamimigay ng subsidy, gamitin po sana ng DA ang latest na listahan ng rehistro para walang mapagkaitan at mapag-iwanan,” he added. Lee also urged the DA to consider giving another round of fuel subsidy in the second half of the year if fuel prices continue to soar. “Sa dalas at laki ng pagtaas ng presyo ng mga produktong petrolyo, hindi sapat ang one-time P3,000 na fuel subsidy,” he stressed. “Habang hindi pa humuhupa ang oil price hike ay pag-aralan sana ng DA ang posibilidad na makapagbigay ng isa pang round ng fuel subsidy bago matapos ang taon para maibsan ang pasanin ng ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda, at mabawasan kahit paano ang kanilang pangamba na wala silang panggastos lalo na kung may magkasakit sa pamilya.” “Kapag nasuportahan natin ang ating mga kababayan, lalo na ang mga nasa vulnerable sectors, kapag natulungan natin ang mga magsasaka at mangingisda na mapaunlad ang kanilang kabuhayan at ang agrikultura, siguradong magiging Winner Tayo Lahat,” he added. During the past budget deliberations in Congress, Lee persistently called on the House leadership to provide additional budget to update and streamline the effectivity of RSBSA and for the swift delivery of fuel subsidies to farmers and fishermen. 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, Support April 18, 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
Lee Welcomes NFA’s Higher Palay Buying Price, Bats For Cheaper Rice Act
April 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 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, Support April 14, 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
Lee To DA: Ready QRF For Drought-Hit Areas
April 11, 2024 Lee To DA: Ready QRF For Drought-Hit Areas The Department of Agriculture (DA) should anticipate more areas in the country to be declared under a state of calamity due to drought and ready its Quick Response Fund (QRF) under this year’s calamity funds so that it can be immediately tapped and released to aid drought-hit farmers, AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Wise” T. Lee said. This, as the local government of San Enrique town in Negros Occidental declared the municipality under a state of calamity following weeks of rising temperatures, dry weather conditions, and lack of rainfall. The town’s mayor says 90 percent of the town’s rice fields have already dried up and farmers couldn’t start replanting due to the unfavorable weather conditions. San Enrique is home to some 26,000 people and is one of the top rice-producing towns in Negros Occidental. A large chunk of the town’s 2,884.75-hectare land area are rice farms. About 20 local government units (LGUs) have declared a state of calamity due to the impact of El Niño. “Kailangang i-expect natin na sa darating na mga linggo ay madadagdagan pa ang mga lugar na magdedeklara ng state of calamity dahil sa matinding init at tagtuyot. Kaya dapat siguraduhin ng DA na ready for release at download sa kanilang regional offices ang QRF kapag nagdeklara na ng state of calamity ang mga LGU para naman mabigyan ng agarang ayuda ang mga apektadong magsasaka sa mga lugar na ‘yon,” Lee said. The Bicolano lawmaker also asked the DA and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) to coordinate for possible cloud-seeding operations over major farm areas in the country to cushion the detrimental effects of the El Niño. The on-going dry spell is expected in the Philippines to persist until May. 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, Support April 11, 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
Pagamutan Hindi Piitan! Lee Seeks Probe To Stop Palit-Ulo In Hospitals
April 7, 2024 Pagamutan Hindi Piitan! Lee Seeks Probe To Stop Palit-Ulo In Hospitals AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert “Wise” T. Lee has filed a measure which seeks to probe the alleged hospital detention of relatives of the deceased patients as well as the refusal to release death certificates and other relevant medical documents due to unsettled bills of the patient, forcing those involved to find another person to replace them in the hospital before they are allowed to leave its premises—a scheme known as “palit-ulo”. Lee filed House Resolution No. 1674 after the reported complaints against ACE (Allied Care Experts) Medical Center, which allegedly held in detention the relatives of deceased patients and refused to provide death certificate, unless replaced by another person or until their hospital dues were settled. “Pinupuntahan ang mga hospital para ipagamot, hindi para ikulong, ang mga pasyente at mga kaanak nila. Demonyo ang gumagawa ng krimeng ito; sila na dumadagdag pa sa pasanin at pagdurusa ng mga pasyente at kanilang pamilya,” he asked. “Eh kung sila kaya ang ikulong, habang nangangamba sa kalusugan ng kaanak, o habang nagluluksa sa pagkamatay ng kapamilya?” “Pagamutan, hindi piitan. Pakikipagkapwa-tao, hindi negosyo. Malasakit at hindi pasakit sana ang pairalin ng ating mga ospital,” Lee stated. In the said Resolution, Lee recounted the experiences of reported “palit-ulo” victims in the said hospital, such as Richel Mae Alvaro who was barred from leaving its premises due to her husband’s unsettled bill. Alvaro was still under illegal detention even after the remains of her husband were already taken out of the hospital. Lovery Magtangob, on the other hand, was allegedly asked to stay at the Office of Safety Officer while waiting for her brother to settle the bill of their relative. Magtangob said she was released only after paying a partial payment of their unsettled bill. According to the Bicolano lawmaker, hospitals that practice “palit-ulo” scheme are criminally liable for Serious Illegal Detention and Slight Illegal Detention under the Revised Penal Code. “Acquiring unsettled hospital bills is not a criminal offense under our laws, and the same is also not an ailment requiring compulsory confinement of the patient in a hospital. Kaya tigilan na itong kawalanghiyaan, karumal-dumal, at ilegal na gawaing ito!” Lee said. Through HR 1674, Lee underscored the importance of identifying any loopholes in the existing policies regarding the rights of patients, their relatives, and visitors, and the rights of hospitals and medical clinics over unsettled bills of patients, as well as exacting accountability to those who are involved in the illegal detention. The solon also pointed out that the “palit-ulo” scheme is proof that there is an alarming gap and perennial problems in our healthcare system that needs to be addressed with appropriate measures. “Hindi na nga po nakapagtataka kung bakit pangunahin sa mga pangamba ng ating mga kababayan ang pagkakasakit, kung saan marami ang namamatay nang hindi man lang nakapagpapatingin sa doktor o ospital; o pinipili na lang maratay sa bahay sa kabila ng mabigat na karamdaman,” Lee said. “Lahat tayo, may karapatang mabuhay. Mayaman man o mahirap, dapat pinagkakalooban ng estado ng de-kalidad, abot-kaya, at may pusong serbisyong pangkalusugan. Nasaan ang hustisya kung sa kagustuhan mong magpagamot at mabuhay, ikukulong ka pa o ang iyong mga kapamilya?” he lamented. Lee, a staunch health advocate, persistently pushed for the 30% increase in Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) benefits which took effect on February 14. The solon also advocated for unlimited coverage for dialysis, cancer treatment, heart bypass surgery, and other diagnostic tests and preventive measures, as well as the effective implementation of the No Balance Billing policy so that patients and their families won’t be burdened by high medical expenses. 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, Support April 7, 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