Abalos to hold dialogue with farmers
FORMER Interior Secretary and now senatorial candidate Atty. Benhur Abalos Jr. has accepted the challenge of former Magsasaka party-list Representative Atty. Argel Cabatbat to visit Guimba, Nueva Ecija, and engage in dialogue with local farmers and farmworkers.
“I gladly accept Atty. Argel Cabatbat’s invitation to visit Guimba, Nueva Ecija, and speak with our farmers. I am sincerely grateful for your invitation,” Abalos said.
Cabatbat had called on Abalos to consult directly with farmers to gain a deeper understanding of their concerns, particularly in relation to his proposed amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL).
“I am open to personally listening to the grievances of those who plant and feed our nation,” Abalos said. “If it requires me to travel to Guimba to hear their stories, I will do it. Every discussion should be anchored on the goal of improving the lives of those who sustain our agriculture.”
Abalos is scheduled to meet with farmers in Guimba, Nueva Ecija, on Tuesday to discuss their struggles and the impact of the Rice Tariffication Law.
The senatorial candidate reiterated his commitment to support meaningful reforms in the agricultural sector.
Abalos’s platform includes providing greater support to farmers through measures such as discount on their real property tax, expanding crop insurance programs, and offering low-interest loans.
He also advocates for prioritizing the education of farmers’ children in state universities and colleges (SUCs) and ensuring they receive financial assistance.
Additionally, Abalos is calling for revisions to the Rice Tariffication Law aimed at protecting local farmers and enhancing the National Food Authority’s (NFA) mandate.
According to Abalos, the NFA must be given back its ability to buy and sell rice. Under the existing system, the NFA is allowed to buy palay from local farmers solely for buffer stocking, only to be utilized during disasters or emergencies declared by the government.
Abalos argues that the NFA should have the authority to sell rice in the market at reasonable prices, even when no emergency is declared.
“Our farmers and farmworkers in Guimba and across the country are true heroes. Like you, I believe that farmers are heroes who deserve to be heard and valued,” Abalos said.
As part of his advocacy for food security, Abalos also emphasized the importance of enacting the Comprehensive Land Use Act to maintain a balance in the nation’s development.
“This is essential to identify priority projects for agriculture and to prevent agricultural lands from being easily converted into subdivisions and industrial sites,” he said.
He added that incentives should be given to farmers who continue to cultivate and keep their lands productive to achieve food sustainability and security for the nation.
“Agricultural produce is our lifeline, and we must protect our farms and support our farmers,” Abalos asserted.
Abalos also assured that if elected to the Senate, he would work tirelessly to implement reforms benefiting the agricultural sector—not only in Nueva Ecija but throughout the Philippines.
“To the farmers and farmworkers of Guimba and the entire country—I stand with you and will engage in dialogue with you,” Abalos declared.
