Kiko urges LGUs to buy early harvests from farmers for relief ops

Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan urged the DSWD, DILG, and local governments to buy early harvests from farmers at fair prices under the Sagip Saka Act for use in relief operations.

Pangilinan, author of the law, recalled that during a past typhoon, farmers had to harvest early to avoid losses, but had nowhere to sell.

The senator coordinated with the Quezon City Government then to buy the produce for evacuation center meals.

“Panalo ‘yung farmers dahil binili sa tamang presyo, nag-early harvest siya. Panalo ‘yung local government na bumili dahil sariwa ang naging pagkain: hot meals — para sa mga nasa evacuation centers,” he said.

With the recent executive orders on the Floor Price on Palay and the Sagip Saka Act implementation, Pangilinan said these measures would help protect farmers and ensure fair income.

He also called on LGUs to coordinate with farmers for early harvests that can be directly used in relief efforts.

“Bawas pinsala para sa magsasaka at sariwang gulay, prutas, at pagkain naman sa mga nasa evacuation centers,” the senator said.IMT