October 23, 2024
Philippines' government approves US$3.08 billion agriculture budget for 2025
The proposed PHP 178.273 billion (US$3.08 billion) budget for the Philippines' Department of Agriculture (DA) for 2025 was officially submitted to the country's Senate plenary, following its approval by the Finance subcommittee chaired by Senator Cynthia Villar, Philippine News Agency reported.
During the proceedings, Villar committed to advocating for additional budget requests, including PHP 150 million (US$2.5 million) in additional funding for the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). These proposals will be conveyed to the Senate Finance Committee.
Villar also pledged her support for passing the Livestock Bill, which would allocate funds to the Bureau of Animal Industry to strengthen food safety measures. Additionally, she backed requests for more funding for the Philippine Carabao Centre and the National Dairy Authority.
For the Bureau of Plant Industry, Villar assured the passage of the Corn Bill. Senate Bill No 2625, which she sponsors, aims to develop the Philippine corn industry, and ensure the availability of affordable quality feeds and staple food.
This bill, under Committee Report No 246, seeks to enhance the competitiveness of the yellow corn industry while allocating 20%of the Corn Competitiveness Enhancement Fund to white corn development and indigenous varieties.
- Philippine News Agency