President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called for innovation in the tobacco industry to protect the livelihoods of thousands of tobacco farmers and safeguard the environment.
In a speech at the International Tobacco Agricultural Summit on Wednesday, Marcos Jr. said that the tobacco industry had been a “vibrant catalyst for economic growth” in the country, particularly in parts of Northern Luzon and Mindanao.
Marcos said that the industry became an indispensable bedrock that generates income, livelihood, opportunities and employment for many Filipinos.
However, Marcos Jr. acknowledged that the tobacco industry has also been affected by changes in health policies in recent years.
“As such, we must seek ways to protect the livelihood of thousands of our tobacco farmers,” he said.
Marcos Jr. urged the Department of Agriculture, the National Tobacco Administration, the academe and the private sector to explore other crops that can be grown alongside tobacco to help address food security.
“So, together, let us embark on a journey of continuous exploration and engage in profound, future-driven discussions that would help bring tobacco farming and its allied industries into the future,” he said.
Marcos Jr. also said that he wants the tobacco industry to be “responsible” and “sustainable.”
“I urge the industry to adopt innovative and sustainable practices that will protect the health of our people and the environment,” he said.
Meanwhile, Michael Tan, Director of LT Group, which owns and distributes most cigarette brands in the Philippines, says the tobacco business needs assistance.
He said that the sector’s earnings support the construction of infrastructure, medical care and educational programs in areas where tobacco is grown.
“The economic impact of tobacco farming extends beyond the farmers themselves as it supports a network of suppliers, traders and manufacturers involved in production and distribution of tobacco products,” said Tan.
The Philippines exports 53 percent of its tobacco, while 47 percent is sold to domestic manufacturers, according to NTA data for 2021–2022.