The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII), expressed support for President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s decision to ease agricultural imports.
FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro said these measures would ensure affordable food prices and stabilize inflation. He emphasized the need for such actions to be temporary, urging the government to focus on long-term reforms and modernization initiatives to enhance agriculture and uplift the livelihoods of local farmers and fishermen.
FFCCCII also expressed support to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel’s leadership and reform initiatives to improve agriculture productivity and growth in the country.
President Marcos’s directive, outlined in Administrative Order No. 20 dated April 18, aims to remove non-tariff barriers and streamline administrative procedures related to agricultural imports. It is intended to address the constraints that contribute to increased importation costs and limited farm goods supply, ultimately leading to higher domestic prices of agricultural commodities.
The order, effective immediately, includes directives on the processing and issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances, guidelines for sugar and fishery product importation and instructions to expedite the processing of agricultural imports.
A surveillance team will be formed to monitor importation and distribution, prevent illegal practices, and ensure the effective implementation of the order.
The Department of Agriculture said it is investigating the cause of the recent price movements, while also noting a decrease in the forecast for rice importation.
Tiu-Laurel advocates for increased budget allocation in 2025 to support agriculture sector plans, focusing on irrigation systems, modernization, and post-harvest improvements.
Despite challenges, the government remains committed to addressing food security concerns and supporting initiatives to stabilize prices and improve agricultural productivity for the benefit of all Filipinos.