FPJ Panday Bayanihan Party-list Rep. Brian Poe has highlighted the House of Representatives' tailor-made amendments to the proposed 2026 national budget, which seek to benefit the country's farmers.

Poe said in a statement Tuesday, Oct. 7 that the proposed amendments aimed to tackle the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) most pressing challenges, including the lack of post-harvest facilities, logistical constraints, and limited crop insurance coverage for Filipino farmers.

These represent “long-term solutions” that directly respond to the DA’s identified priorities, said the vice chairman of the House Committee Agriculture and Food in the current 19th Congress.

Poe took part in the panel's joint hearing with the Committee on Ways and Means on Monday, Oct. 6.

“While we are discussing the temporary suspension of rice importation under Executive Order No. 93, we must also ensure long-term capacity improvements,” he said.

“These amendments ensure that farmers have the post-harvest facilities, transport systems, and insurance protection they need to thrive beyond seasonal challenges," noted the lawmaker from Pangasinan.

Under the proposed amendments, the House has allocated ₱8.69 billion for the construction, repair, and rehabilitation of post-harvest facilities and transport equipment under the National Food Authority (NFA); and ₱1 billion for the expansion of the crop insurance program to protect more farmers from climate-related losses.

The funding is expected to address the NFA’s identified shortage of at least 64 warehouses nationwide and strengthen the DA’s logistical support for hauling and drying operations.

Poe also noted that while the immediate need for warehouse rentals amounts to ₱500 million, the long-term ₱8.69-billion allocation ensures sustainable post-harvest infrastructure development.

“These investments will not only improve food storage and reduce losses but also help stabilize supply and protect farm incomes. We call on the DA and NFA to support these amendments as we move into Senate deliberations,” he said.

The young congressman also reiterated the importance of expanding agricultural credit access and investing in farmer training and extension services. He also highlighted the need to support both current and future generations of Filipino farmers.

“True agricultural progress means empowering our farmers with tools, knowledge, and security. This is how we make our food systems stronger and more sustainable," Poe said.