President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday vowed continued government support for Indigenous Peoples (IPs) as he led the distribution of carabaos, farm implements, and financial aid to Aeta farmers in Pampanga, part of his administration’s broader effort to strengthen rural livelihoods and food security.
Speaking before hundreds of beneficiaries at the Katutubo Village Covered Court in Barangay Planas, Porac, Mr. Marcos underscored the crucial role of the agriculture sector, particularly smallholder farmers, in ensuring food security for the nation.
“When you farm, you don’t just feed your families, you help feed the entire Filipino nation,” President Marcos said. “That’s why it’s important for the government to provide every possible support to help your communities thrive,” he added.
A total of 127 Aeta farmers received carabaos and various farm tools under the program facilitated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The agency also distributed P10,000 in financial assistance to nearly 1,200 beneficiaries from Barangays Planas and Camias.
President Marcos said the assistance is part of a long-term plan to uplift the livelihoods of IP communities and integrate them into the country’s agricultural development.
“These efforts are not one-time. They are part of a larger, continuous program to improve your lives, so that you no longer worry about how to feed your families or sustain your livelihood,” the president said.
The president also lauded the recent announcement by former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo that land titles will soon be distributed to the Aeta families, calling it a significant step toward their security and self-sufficiency.
“Once you have titles to your land, you can focus on improving your farms and building a better future without fear,” he said.
Despite the availability of modern agricultural machinery, the president emphasized the enduring importance of traditional tools like the carabao, calling it “indispensable” in Philippine farming.
“No matter how many tractors and harvesters are invented, the carabao will always have a role in our farms,” he said.
Mr. Marcos concluded his remarks by assuring the Aeta communities of the government’s continued presence and responsiveness to their needs.
“Do not hesitate to ask for help, this is your government’s duty,” he said. “You don’t need to thank us. This is your money, and we are simply returning it to you,” the president added.
