Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has filed the Agricultural Land Conversion Ban Act to protect agricultural lands and prevent their use for non-agricultural purposes.
He emphasized that preserving limited farmland is essential for ensuring the country’s food security for present and future generations.
The bill aims to prohibit the conversion of irrigated and irrigable lands used for rice, corn, and coconut cultivation into housing or commercial areas.
It also proposes penalties such as fines, imprisonment, and the seizure of unauthorized structures on agricultural land.
Pangilinan filed the bill shortly after returning to the Senate, ahead of the 20th Congress session starting July 28.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 6, 2025
