TINGOG Party-list is sounding the alarm on a brewing crisis, urging the government to release immediate fuel subsidies for the nation’s food producers. As gasoline and diesel prices climb, the group warns that the very people feeding the country are being pushed to their breaking point, creating a dangerous ripple effect for every Filipino household.

The Growing Burden on Producers

Agriculture and fisheries are the lifeblood of the Philippine economy, yet the people behind these industries are often the most financially at risk. TINGOG points out that for fisherfolk, fuel isn’t just a minor expense—it is often the single largest cost of their workday.

“For fisherfolk in particular, fuel is one of the most significant operating expenses, often taking up a substantial portion of daily earnings. As fuel prices rise, the ability to continue operating becomes increasingly uncertain,” TINGOG said.

This financial strain is already reflected in the data. While agriculture is seeing only modest growth, the fisheries sector is in steady decline. These aren’t just statistics; they are symptoms of a system struggling to cope with rising production costs.

A Matter of National Security

The party-list argues that helping farmers and fisherfolk isn’t just a matter of charity; it is a strategic move to protect the country’s food security. When it becomes too expensive to harvest crops or go out to sea, production slows. This leads to tighter supply and higher prices in the market.

“Farmers and fisherfolk may be among the most vulnerable in times of rising fuel costs, but the Filipino people are even more vulnerable without them. When production slows or becomes unsustainable, the effects ripple across the economy through tighter supply, higher food prices, and increased strain on already vulnerable households.”