Marcos OKs program to boost agriculture with local machinery

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved a program to boost the country’s agriculture sector through locally-produced machinery.

It was approved during a sectoral meeting with Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Wednesday, the Presidential Communications Office said in a statement.

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The DOST’s Local Manufacturing Capabilities to Support Agri-Mechanization program will lead the government’s shift from importation to local production of machines used in the agriculture sector.

Solidum said it will benefit the sector and strengthen the manufacturing industry.

“Mechanization is a key driver for improving efficiency and reducing cost in farming. The DA (Department of Agriculture) recognizes the need for mechanization. It has been providing farm implements to farmers and cooperatives, particularly through the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund,” Solidum said in the meeting, as quoted in the statement.

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“With our limited resources and capabilities, we need to strengthen the agri-machineries sector. Supporting homegrown agri-machinery can lead to more efficient farming practices, increase productivity, and, of course, have more employment for our people,” he also said.