Food supply is always a challenge after every natural calamity. Crops damaged by wind and water, fish cages that either overflow or are destroyed by strong current, livestock and poultry that either die or are stricken with diseases – these and many other troubles drain the hope of poor Filipino farmers upon whom the rest of us rely for food and nutrition.
Agriculture has always played a vital role in the growth and development of nations and communities. Farmers, as the backbone of agriculture, are as vital. They play an indispensable role in ensuring food security and nutrition, in safeguarding human health and wellness, in providing employment and livelihood, and in rural growth and development in general.
In recognition of farmers and other agricultural workers, Proclamation No. 33 issued in March 21, 1989 designated the month of May every year as Famers’ and Fisherfolks’ Month. More tangible rewards, however, were needed to strengthen the agriculture sector and provide our farmers with the much needed support and capability boost to inspire them to continue feeding the population.
The most tangible reward, however, and which will surely enable farmers to sustain their livelihood and indeed harvest the fruits of their labor, is the granting of Certificate of Land Ownership Award or CLOA and e-titles from the Department of Agrarian Reform . I have personally witnessed these awarding ceremonies, and I am thankful to have taken part in opening the door to a better life for these farmers.
Other laws which aid farmers include Republic Act 8435 of the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997 of AFMA which mandates the Department of Agriculture to formulate and implement medium and long-term comprehensive development plan for agriculture and fisheries. This modernization plan hopes to boost productivity in agriculture and elevate our farm produce to world quality standards.