The current fuel price crisis could quickly morph into a food crisis if the necessary interventions aren't taken.

Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre gave this warning on Monday, April 6, ahead of another round of hefty pump fuel price hikes.

"The ongoing fuel crisis is not just a transportation and energy problem. It is a food security issue that directly affects our farmers and fishermen—the very people who sustain our nation," he said.

"We must be clear: if we do not act decisively, this fuel crisis can become a food crisis," Acidre said.

"As fuel prices continue to rise, so do the costs of farming and fishing. From irrigation and mechanized farming to the daily cost of going out to sea, our producers are bearing the brunt of this crisis. Many are now struggling to continue operations," noted the Tingog lawmaker.

According to Acidre, a production slow-down could result to reduced supply, higher food prices, and increased vulnerability for Filipino families.

To prevent this scenario, Acidre batted for the immediate development and implementation of a comprehensive Food Resilience Plan to protect local food production and ensure stability in supply and prices.

He says the first step is to provide targeted fuel assistance to farmers and fishermen as a way to help lower their production costs and sustain their operations.

"Second, accelerate investments in alternative energy solutions for agriculture and fisheries, including solar-powered irrigation and energy-efficient technologies, to reduce long-term dependence on volatile fuel prices," he said.

"Third, strengthen local food production systems by improving access to inputs, credit, post-harvest facilities, and efficient farm-to-market linkages," Acidre added.

"Fourth, build and maintain strategic food reserves and enhance logistics systems to ensure that supply chains remain stable even during external shocks," he further said.

Finally, the second-term congressman has said the government must ensure strong coordination between energy, agriculture, and economic agencies so that response is unified, responsive, and focused on protecting both producers and consumers.

"The fuel crisis has made one thing clear: when fuel prices rise, food security is at risk. We cannot afford to overlook the needs of our farmers and fishermen," he said.

Acidre vowed that Tingog remains committed to advancing policies that protect livelihoods, stabilize food supply, and ensure that no Filipino is left behind in times of crisis.