Implement a data-driven information system during every planting season to forestall overproduction of agricultural products, President Marcos told the Department of Agriculture (DA).
Marcos made the directive during a sectoral meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 16.
The President said farmers should be equipped with the necessary information to limit the production of agricultural products that are only sellable in the market.
He stressed the need to give farmers the technical know-how for them to better decide what to plant in every season.
"It’s another part of data-driven decisions that we give to the farmers, the producers. Kung ano ang mabenta (What is in demand) at this time, this season," President Marcos said.
"So that hindi natin maririnig yung mga balita na nag-over produce, hindi mabenta, nabubulok na lang, pinamimigay na lang (So that we would no longer hear news of over production, unsold and vegetable wastage being given away),” Marcos added.
According to DA Secretary Francisco Laurel Jr., with accurate and real-time data, stakeholders can make smarter, data-driven decisions and efficiently manage emergencies and day-to-day operations.
This would also pave the way towards a resilient sector that thrives in the modern, digital world, Laurel said.
Marcos also pushed for the need to upgrade the processing of goods and develop the necessary facilities so that farmers will gain more value for their products.
During the sectoral meeting, Laurel presented to the Chief Executive a three-year plan for the country’s agricultural sector to ensure food security.
The plan includes the digitalization aimed at uplifting the agri-fisheries sector by equipping decision-makers, farmers, food producers and consumers with accessible technology and advanced tools.