By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the hot Mindoro sun, farmers lined up with hope in their hands, holding cards that promise relief from rising fuel prices. For many of them, every peso saved on fuel means more money for seeds, food, and their children’s schooling.
More than 1,000 farmers from Oriental and Occidental Mindoro have received fuel subsidy cards from the Department of Agriculture – MIMAROPA. The assistance is part of the government’s continuing effort to lower farm production costs and protect farmers from the impact of high fuel prices.
The distribution covered rice and corn farmers who rely heavily on fuel for land preparation, irrigation, and transporting their harvest. With fuel prices remaining unstable, many small farmers have struggled to keep their farms running while earning enough to support their families.
According to the Department of Agriculture, fuel is one of the biggest expenses in farming today. Tractors, water pumps, and other farm machines all depend on diesel or gasoline. When fuel prices go up, farmers are often forced to borrow money or reduce farm activities, which can lead to lower harvests.
The fuel subsidy cards can be used to buy fuel from accredited gas stations. This allows farmers to continue farming without worrying too much about sudden fuel price increases. The program also helps ensure that government aid is given directly to the farmers who need it most.
The initiative is part of the national government’s support for the agriculture sector under its food security and rural development programs. By helping farmers manage their costs, the government aims to keep food production stable and prices affordable for consumers.
Mindoro is one of the country’s important agricultural areas, producing rice, corn, vegetables, and other crops. However, many farmers in the province belong to small-scale operations and are vulnerable to rising input costs and climate-related risks. Any increase in expenses, especially fuel, can quickly affect their livelihood.
Local agriculture officials said the subsidy will help farmers prepare for the next planting season with less financial stress. With lower fuel expenses, farmers can focus more on improving crop yields and maintaining their farms.
For many beneficiaries, the support is a sign that their struggles are being recognized. Some farmers shared that even small assistance makes a big difference, especially during times when prices of basic goods continue to rise.
The Department of Agriculture assured that similar support programs will continue, especially for farmers in remote and vulnerable areas. Officials also encouraged farmers to stay connected with their local agriculture offices to receive updates on future assistance and training programs.
As the country works to strengthen food production, programs like fuel subsidies play a key role in keeping farmers on their land and ensuring a steady food supply for Filipino families. Supporting farmers today helps secure the nation’s food tomorrow.
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