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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Luzon devider Bill seeking to entice youth to become farmers hurdles second reading – solon

Bill seeking to entice youth to become farmers hurdles second reading – solon

Published Sep 15, 2024 08:46 am

DAGUPAN CITY – The House of Representatives has approved House Bill No. 613 or the Young Farmers and Fisherfolk Challenge Act on second reading that seeks to entice the youth to engage in farming, Pangasinan Rep. Christopher de Venecia said.

REP. DE VENECIA.jpg

DE VENECIA (FB)

De Venecia, author of the measure, said the bill aims to reverse the trend of declining youth participation in farming and fisheries by creating an enabling environment for young Filipinos to engage in these vital sectors.

The average age of Filipino farmers is between 57- and 59-year-old, he said. 

"We need to make farming and fisheries more attractive to the youth by ensuring they are supported, valued, and empowered," said De Venecia.

 "This bill will provide young Filipinos the opportunity to see agriculture not just as a means of livelihood, but as a promising career path that can contribute significantly to our nation's food security and economic development."

HB No. 613 proposes the establishment of the Young Farmers and Fisherfolk Challenge Program that will encourage young people to pursue careers in agriculture and fisheries. 

The program will not only foster youth participation in policy formulation but also provides institutional support for the development of agri-businesses and agri-entrepreneurship, ensuring their roles as partners in agricultural modernization, De Venecia said.

The Young Farmers and Fisherfolk Challenge Council will oversee the program’s implementation. Council members will include representatives from the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

The council will streamline access to essential resources for young farmers, including capacity-building programs, sources of credit, and marketing services.

The bill also promotes the adoption of cutting-edge agricultural technologies, including smart farming, aquaponics, and organic farming, while facilitating access to trade fairs, subsidies, and marketing opportunities.

It also extends significant support to young agricultural workers by guaranteeing scholarships and on-the-job training programs through partnerships with government agencies such as the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). 

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Rep. Christopher de Venecia Pangasinan
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