By Kenneth Marcos 
Early in the morning at Pantao Port in Libon, Albay, farmers and fisherfolk gathered under the bright Bicol sun, hopeful that new support would help improve their harvests and livelihoods. For many families who depend on the land and the sea, assistance from the government can mean the difference between struggling and moving forward.
On March 12, 2026, the Department of Agriculture rolled out more than ₱65 million worth of agricultural support for farmers and fisherfolk in Libon, a municipality widely known as the “rice granary” of Albay. Agriculture Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. personally led the distribution during a ceremony attended by local officials, agricultural workers, and community members.
The initiative forms part of the government’s wider effort to strengthen food production and improve the lives of people in rural communities. The support includes farm machinery, fishing equipment, and other agricultural interventions designed to boost productivity in both farming and fishing sectors.
Libon plays a key role in rice production in Albay. Many of its residents depend on rice farming as their main source of income, while others rely on coastal fishing for daily livelihood. However, like many agricultural areas in the Philippines, farmers and fisherfolk here often face challenges such as rising production costs, changing weather patterns, and limited access to modern equipment.
By providing new tools and resources, the Department of Agriculture hopes to help local producers increase their yields while lowering their operating expenses. Improved equipment can help farmers prepare fields faster and manage crops more efficiently, while fisherfolk can benefit from better gear that allows them to operate more safely and productively at sea.
Secretary Tiu Laurel said the intervention is part of the agency’s ongoing programs to support food security and strengthen agricultural communities across the country. The effort follows the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to improve the country’s agricultural productivity and ensure stable food supply for Filipino families.
Agriculture remains one of the most important sectors in the Philippines, employing millions of Filipinos and contributing significantly to local economies, particularly in provinces like Albay. Government programs that provide equipment, training, and financial support are considered crucial in helping small farmers and fisherfolk remain competitive and resilient.
Local farmers and fisherfolk welcomed the assistance, saying it would help them cope with daily challenges and improve their ability to produce food for their communities. Many expressed hope that continued support from the government would lead to more stable incomes and stronger rural economies.
As the program moves forward, the Department of Agriculture is expected to continue rolling out similar interventions in other provinces, focusing on areas that play vital roles in food production.
For many communities like Libon, these efforts bring renewed optimism that with the right support, Filipino farmers and fisherfolk can strengthen the nation’s food security while building better futures for their families.
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