Senatorial candidate and Makati Mayor Abigail Binay on Friday said the government needs to give more support for irrigation to help improve food security and assist local farmers.
During a press briefing in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, Binay highlighted that a significant portion of the country’s agricultural potential remains untapped due to inadequate irrigation systems.
“We need to invest more in our irrigation,” Binay said, explaining that doing so will enhance agricultural productivity, reduce dependency on food imports, and secure the nation’s long-term food supply.
She cited a statement of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., who noted that over a million hectares of flatland remain unirrigated.
“Imagine the potential of those lands for achieving food security without relying on imported food,” Binay said.
She also pointed out other challenges faced by farmers, including the lack of post-harvest facilities, which are essential for maintaining the quality and shelf life of agricultural produce.
“Clearly, the support we are providing is insufficient, especially in critical areas… But I believe we should begin with the most basic necessity, which is irrigation,” Binay said.