Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan announced that the proposed 2026 national budget allocates a historic ₱214.39 billion to the Department of Agriculture, the highest since 2010.
The budget aims to boost farmers’ and fishers’ incomes, strengthen food security, and improve nutrition programs, including extending the School-Based Feeding Program and supporting local dairy farmers.
Key funding increases include credit and crop insurance to help farmers avoid debt and recover from disasters, as well as ₱500 million for the Sagip Saka Act to enable direct government procurement from producers.
Additional initiatives such as the Bio-SAFE Project, Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita, and Agricultural Food Hubs will enhance border security, modernize storage and transport, and reduce food waste.
Pangilinan emphasized that the success of these programs depends on proper and prudent use of the budget, ensuring a safer, fairer, and more affordable food system for all Filipinos.
Source: PhilNews24 | December 21, 2025
