Secure farmer livelihoods key to nation's food security, says Dy

House Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy III has underscored the critical link between farmer prosperity and national food security, declaring that "food security begins with farmer security."

Dy conveyed his message Tuesday at a meeting of farmers' and irrigators' associations convened in San Miguel, Bulacan, to discuss the Sagip Saka Program, a government initiative aimed at supporting agricultural communities. The statement was delivered on his behalf by a representative from Bulacan.

The speaker's remarks highlight growing policy attention to the economic challenges facing the Philippines' agricultural sector. By framing improved farmer incomes as essential to food security, Dy aligned himself with advocates who argue that sustainable agricultural development requires strengthening the financial viability of farming operations across the country.

The Sagip Saka Program brings together stakeholders from farming and irrigation sectors to address production and livelihood concerns in the agricultural industry. The initiative reflects government efforts to stabilize rural incomes while ensuring adequate domestic food production.