MARCOS PUSHES FOR SMART FARMING

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Sunday that the government will support the adoption of smart or innovative farming technologies to help ensure the country’s food security.

The President pushed for the modernization of country’s agricultural production when he toured the 3.5-hectare greenhouse facility of Metro Pacific Fresh Farms in San Rafael, Bulacan.

The facility showcased advanced farming systems that enable year-round production of vegetables and fruits five times more than traditional farms and with less water and land utilization.

“Dumalaw din tayo sa isang farm sa Bulacan kung nasaan ang pinakamalaking greenhouse facility sa buong bansa,” President Marcos said in a video posted on his Youtube channel on Sunday.

“Ang agricultural innovation na ganito ay dapat talagang inaaral at sinusuportahan ng pamahalaan,” the President added in his “BBMVLOG #270: Mga Pagbabago” video.

President Marcos emphasized that smart farming is not just about increasing yield but also about improving dietary diversity and public health.

“Ang pinag-uusapan natin dito ay hindi lamang ang food security o ‘yung food supply, kung hindi pati na ang nutritional value na binibigay natin sa taumbayan,” the President noted.

“Kaya ang mga facility na ganito ay ayan ang magpo-provide sa atin ng mga fresh na mga gulay, fresh fruits, et cetera,” added the President.

President Marcos has placed agricultural modernization as one of the top priorities of his administration’s “Bagong Pilipinas” agenda.