Mindanao’s economy, adversely affected by the disruption of supply chain because of COVID 19, could make an immediate recovery if government regulates the entry of imports, especially rice, pork and chicken.
This was the recommendation I submitted during the meeting of the Mindanao Regional Development Councils Chairmen headed by Agusan del Norte Governor Dale Corvera earlier this week.
During a ZOOM Conference Wednesday which I joined while I was in Olutanga Island, Zamboanga Sibugay, I shared with the MIndanao RDC Chairmen the appeal of agriculture stakeholders, especially rice farmers, for government support as farm gate prices fell below break-even levels.
At the height of harvest, rice farmers in Mindanao say that farm gate prices have dipped to as low as P12 per kilo which is equivalent to the production cost.
Corn prices have also fallen to as low as P10 per kilo from a high of P16 before harvest.
I recommended that the importation of rice and other products which the local farmers could easily produce and benefit from, should be regulated as we address the economic slowdown brought about by the pandemic.
The Mindanao RDC asked MinDA to submit a consolidated report on the effects of low agricultural products prices to Mindanao’s economy recovery.
That process, however, will take months and by the time it is completed, harvest season would be over and the farmers would have lost their shirts again.
Aside from that, we would have lost the opportunity of triggering the economic recovery of Mindanao through its agriculture, livestock and poultry sectors.
The economic recovery of Mindanao, including the whole country, could be jumpstarted if we consider the following practical solutions:
1. Just like in a basketball game, let us look at our deep bench, meaning our local resources, and exploit these rather than depend on imports;
2. Our local government leaders in Mindanao should spread and promote the “Buy Local” Advocacy to support not only our agricultural producers but also local manufacturers;
3. By promoting and buying local products, we provide income-earning opportunities and jobs to Filipinos and at the same time, allow the circulation of money intended for imports in the country to perk up the economy.
These are suggested solutions which will not cost government anything and will certainly be welcomed by the agriculture and fisheries sector.
During the “Lockdown,” local farmers could have gained had local government units opted to procure local goods over imported products, like rice.
By regulating the entry of imports and promoting local products, we will be seeing an immediate recovery of Mindanao’s economy.
#GovernanceIsCommonSense!
#KungGustoMaramingParaan!
#BilhinSarilingAtin!
(Attached photos were downloaded from public websites.)
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