At the helm of the Department of Agriculture, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has quickly addressed the problems facing the sector, according to DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Kristine Evangelista.
Evangelista said Marcos’ presence in the department has allowed for swifter collaboration with other government agencies thereby resolving agriculture issues.
“If our agency is able to work well with other government agencies, then we can solve more problems of our stakeholders,” Evangelista said in a radio interview.
The DA official issued the statement amid calls from some lawmakers for Marcos to appoint a permanent chief to the department instead of heading it himself.
The President on Thursday said he is staying at the DA as there are matters there that only he can handle as Chief Executive.
“There are things that a President can do that a Secretary cannot. The problems are so difficult that it will take a President to change and turn it around,” said the Chief Executive at the 48th Philippine Business Conference and Exposition of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry at The Manila Hotel.
Marcos, nonetheless, said he is looking for someone to eventually head the DA once badly needed reforms are put in motion.
Earlier, he said that the problems in the agriculture sector are “deeply embedded” and that it would take time to rectify them.
Marcos is batting for sustainable livelihood for farmers, food security, and affordable food for all.
The President stressed farmers must have a sustainable livelihood to motivate others to pursue the field of agriculture.
He explained he is batting for food self-sufficiency by prioritizing local production over food importation, while ensuring affordable food for all.
As Ilocos Norte governor for 12 years, Marcos said he has seen the problems being faced by farmers.