MANILA, Philippines — Copperstone Lending Inc., the SEC-registered company behind digital lending platform MocaMoca, has expressed full support for the recent public advisory issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) warning consumers against fraudulent entities and fake digital platforms illegally using the company’s identity and branding.

The advisory, released by the SEC’s Financing and Lending Companies Department (FinLenD), cautioned the public against dealing with unauthorized websites, suspicious mobile applications, fake social media pages, and online entities falsely representing themselves as affiliated with Copperstone Lending Inc. and MocaMoca.

Among the suspicious platforms identified were:

• buklodservices.com
• flowforthventures.com
• jitsconstruction.com

According to the SEC, reports and supporting documents submitted by Copperstone revealed several online activities involving:

• Unauthorized use of the company’s corporate identity and branding
• Counterfeit or suspicious online lending applications
• Possible phishing activities and unauthorized collection of personal information
• Misleading representations to borrowers
• Alleged harassment and abusive collection-related activities
• Possible misuse of consumer data and unauthorized financial transactions

Copperstone Lending Inc. welcomed the SEC’s swift action and reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers and strengthening cybersecurity awareness and responsible digital finance practices in the Philippines.

“We fully support the SEC’s efforts to protect Filipino consumers against fake lending platforms, online impersonation, phishing activities, and unauthorized digital transactions,” the company said in a statement.

“As digital financial services continue to expand, safeguarding consumer trust, personal data, and digital security must remain a shared responsibility among regulators, fintech companies, technology platforms, and the public.”

The company also emphasized that several complaints involving suspicious transactions, collection-related concerns, and alleged harassment were internally verified and found to be unrelated to Copperstone’s official systems and authorized channels.

Copperstone likewise issued a strong public warning against unauthorized individuals and companies falsely claiming affiliation with the company.

In particular, Copperstone clarified that it has NO affiliation, connection, or relationship of any kind with HPR Lending Services, Inc. The company stressed that HPR Lending Services, Inc. is NOT authorized to use Copperstone’s name, address, branding, or any company-related information.

“Their actions are being carried out entirely without our knowledge or consent,” the company stated.

Copperstone also reminded the public that it does NOT and will NEVER solicit money from the public in the form of:

• Investment capital
• Placement fees
• Processing fees
• Upfront payments of any kind

“If anyone approaches you claiming to represent Copperstone Lending Inc. and asks for money, that is a scam,” the company warned.

Copperstone further clarified that:

• All legitimate MocaMoca transactions are conducted only through official authorized platforms
• The official MocaMoca mobile application is available only on Google Play Store
• Consumers are strongly advised to avoid dealing with unverified applications, websites, social media pages, or individuals claiming to represent the company outside official channels

The company encouraged consumers to remain vigilant and verify all communications directly through its official customer support channels.

Copperstone Lending Inc. also reaffirmed its commitment to:

• Strengthening digital security measures
• Enhancing consumer awareness campaigns
• Supporting responsible lending and fintech innovation
• Cooperating with regulators and law enforcement agencies in combating cyber-enabled financial fraud

The SEC likewise reminded financing and lending companies to continuously monitor and protect their digital platforms and immediately report unauthorized use of their identities, trademarks, applications, websites, and social media accounts.

Industry observers note that the rise of fake lending applications, phishing schemes, fraudulent digital financial platforms, and unauthorized entities highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity, consumer education, and stronger collaboration between regulators and responsible fintech companies.

Copperstone Lending Inc. remains committed to working closely with regulators and relevant authorities to help ensure a safer, more transparent, and more secure digital financial ecosystem for Filipinos.

Official Verification Channels

Website: https://www.copperstoneph.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/copperstoneph
Email: help@mocamocatech.com

Copperstone Lending Inc. SEC Registration No. 2021050012959-04

via The Philippines Herald

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The impeachment proceedings involving Sara Duterte have become one of the most closely watched political developments in the country, placing renewed attention on the role of the Philippine Senate and the broader strength of democratic institutions.

Recent developments, including changes in Senate leadership and the House of Representatives’ vote related to the impeachment process, have prompted wider public discussion surrounding constitutional procedure, institutional independence, and governance stability.

The transition in Senate leadership, which saw Alan Peter Cayetano assume the role of Senate President, has naturally drawn attention because of the Senate President’s role in guiding legislative procedures and managing the flow of proceedings within the chamber.

Political observers note that moments such as these often place institutions under heightened public scrutiny, particularly when issues involve constitutional accountability and national leadership. At the same time, analysts point out that democratic systems are designed to manage differing political views through established legal and institutional processes.

As discussions continue, many Filipinos are closely watching how the Senate will proceed and whether the institution can maintain public confidence through transparency, due process, and adherence to constitutional mechanisms.

The situation has also generated broader conversations about governance and political stability. Historically, prolonged political uncertainty can affect market sentiment, investor confidence, and policy momentum, particularly in areas related to infrastructure, energy, inflation, and economic development.

At the same time, observers emphasize that careful handling of constitutional proceedings is equally important. Processes viewed as orderly, transparent, and grounded in due process can help reinforce institutional credibility regardless of political outcome.

Many analysts believe the current situation highlights the importance of balancing accountability, institutional independence, and political stability. As with other major democratic exercises, public trust may ultimately depend not only on outcomes, but also on how institutions conduct themselves throughout the process.

The Senate, therefore, faces the challenge of managing proceedings in a manner that preserves confidence in constitutional institutions while avoiding unnecessary political escalation. Clear communication, procedural consistency, and visible adherence to legal processes are expected to remain important factors in maintaining public trust.

While political debates are expected to continue, the broader focus for many Filipinos may center on institutional functionality and governance continuity. In periods of heightened political attention, the ability of democratic institutions to operate predictably and responsibly often becomes just as important as the political issues themselves.

In the coming weeks, attention will likely remain fixed on how the Senate navigates the process and whether it can reinforce public confidence in the country’s constitutional mechanisms during a politically sensitive period.

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Speaking at the post-summit briefing, President Marcos highlighted the adoption of the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Maritime Cooperation, a key document reaffirming the bloc’s commitment to deeper collaboration on maritime concerns across Southeast Asia.

According to the President, the declaration underscores the “multi-dimensional nature of maritime issues” and includes a Philippine proposal to establish an ASEAN Maritime Centre in the country.

“The Declaration also includes the proposal for the establishment of an ASEAN Maritime Centre in the Philippines,” said the President.

ASEAN leaders also adopted the ASEAN Declaration on the Empowerment of Youth in Climate Action and Disaster Resilience, recognizing the growing role of young people in climate adaptation, disaster preparedness, and risk reduction initiatives throughout the region.

Another major development during the summit was the approval of the ASEAN Leaders’ Statement on the ASEAN Convergence on Disaster Response: the ASEAN Strategic Protocol for Emergency and Comprehensive Transformation (ASPECT) Framework. The framework is expected to strengthen coordination among member states during emergencies and large-scale disasters.

The summit also emphasized the importance of innovation and emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and digital tools, in improving regional development strategies. ASEAN leaders acknowledged the role of AI in enhancing energy forecasting, food system monitoring, and social protection delivery, while stressing that these technologies must remain guided by human accountability and international standards.

President Marcos also cited the continued support of the Asian Development Bank for ASEAN programs involving regional connectivity, capital markets, AI readiness, energy and food security, social protection, healthcare, and the blue economy.

“We look forward to enhancing our cooperation with ADB through its planned support for major ASEAN initiatives such as the ASEAN Power Grid, ASEAN Capital Markets Initiative, AI readiness, blue economy, and resilient rivers,” said the President.

One of the summit’s most significant outcomes was the adoption of the Cebu Protocol to Amend the Charter of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. It marks the first amendment to the ASEAN Charter since it was signed in 2007.

President Marcos described the amendment as an important milestone that supports Timor-Leste’s integration into ASEAN while reinforcing the organization’s broader goal of becoming a stronger and more inclusive regional community.

Leaders also acknowledged ongoing progress across ASEAN’s Political-Security, Economic, and Socio-Cultural pillars as the regional bloc entered the first year of implementing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, the long-term roadmap that will guide Southeast Asia’s development over the next two decades.

via PIA | The Philippines Herald

#oona #darama

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MANILA, Philippines — The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is recalibrating its approach to overseeing the country’s fast-growing digital lending sector, as regulators respond to rising consumer complaints and evolving market risks.

The agency is advancing a more preventive regulatory model, anchored on proposed guidelines for online lending platforms that aim to strengthen oversight, improve transparency, and protect borrowers.

The move comes amid broader concerns across the Philippine financial ecosystem, where digital lending has expanded rapidly—driven by mobile technology, limited access to traditional banking, and increasing demand for short-term credit.

Rising Complaints Prompt Regulatory Shift

Speaking at the 44th National Credit Congress in Pasay City, SEC Commissioner Javey Paul D. Francisco highlighted a noticeable increase in complaints tied to the lending sector.

These complaints, he noted, often involve:

• Unregistered or unauthorized lending platforms
• Reports of unfair or aggressive collection practices
• Concerns over high interest rates
• Inadequate disclosure of loan terms and obligations

Industry observers have long pointed out that while digital lending improves access, gaps in regulation and enforcement can expose consumers to risks—particularly in a fragmented online environment.

At the same time, regulators and industry stakeholders differentiate between unregistered operators and licensed entities that operate within established rules. Platforms such as MocaMoca, operated by Copperstone Lending Inc., fall within the category of registered lending companies subject to SEC oversight and compliance requirements.

Toward a More Structured Lending Framework

The SEC’s proposed framework seeks to address these issues by introducing clearer entry requirements and stronger platform-level accountability.

Under the proposed guidelines, lending platforms will be expected to comply with stricter standards on:

• Registration and licensing
• Disclosure of loan terms and fees
• Data governance and privacy protection
• Operational conduct and consumer interaction

Francisco emphasized that the goal is not only to curb harmful practices but also to create a more balanced environment for compliant operators.

“The proposed guidelines address these harmful practices and create a level playing field for responsible lenders,” he said.

Accountability Cannot Be Outsourced

A key element of the proposed regulatory direction is the emphasis on direct accountability.

According to Francisco, lending companies remain responsible for their operations—even when third-party service providers are involved.

This includes activities related to customer engagement, loan servicing, and collection processes.

By embedding conduct standards directly into lending operations, the SEC aims to ensure that consumer protection is not diluted across multiple layers of service providers.

Balancing Innovation and Consumer Protection

The rise of digital lending has been closely tied to efforts to expand financial inclusion in the Philippines. With many Filipinos still outside the traditional banking system, mobile-based lending platforms have emerged as accessible alternatives.

However, regulators caution that innovation must be matched with safeguards.

“Digital lending has the potential to expand access and drive growth, but without strong governance, it can undermine the very trust that sustains the credit system,” Francisco said.

This balancing act—between enabling access and ensuring protection—has become a central theme in regulatory discussions across emerging markets.

Industry Dialogue and Next Steps

The National Credit Congress brought together stakeholders from across the financial sector to discuss ways to strengthen the country’s credit ecosystem.

Participants underscored the importance of:

• Clear regulatory frameworks
• Responsible lending practices
• Transparent borrower communication
• Sustainable industry growth

As the SEC moves forward with its proposed guidelines, the direction signals a shift toward proactive oversight, where risks are addressed before they escalate.

A Sector at a Turning Point

With digital lending continuing to evolve, the regulatory landscape is expected to play a defining role in shaping its future.

For borrowers, stricter rules may offer greater protection and clarity. For legitimate operators, they provide an opportunity to build trust in an increasingly competitive and scrutinized market.

As the industry matures, the emphasis is clear: growth must be supported not only by technology, but by governance, accountability, and transparency.

Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

via The Philippines Herald

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MANILA — The Philippines has secured enough fuel to last 51 days, as the government accelerates measures to protect the country’s oil supply amid continued tensions in the Middle East, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Tuesday.

In a national address, Marcos said state‑run firms and economic agencies have taken concrete steps to shore up fuel reserves and cushion the impact of potential supply disruptions.

“Nag‑order na ang PNOC‑EC ng 1.04 milyong bariles ng diesel. Mayroon ding 142,000 na bariles na [na‑deliver] ngayong linggo. Ang natitira ay darating sa buwan ng Abril,” the President said.

Marcos added that additional funding has already been released to further strengthen the country’s buffer stock.

“Nai‑release na ng DBM ang PhP20 bilyon para sa procurement ng hanggang dalawang milyong bariles ng karagdagang langis. Sampung araw ito na dagdag sa ating buffer stock. Sa ngayon, may 51 days tayo na supply dito sa bansa,” he said.

The President earlier noted that the Philippines has sufficient crude oil supply to last until June 30, even as global energy markets remain volatile due to geopolitical developments.

Emergency measures activated

Marcos outlined a series of actions taken under the government’s energy emergency response, including the issuance of Executive Order No. 110, which authorizes the Department of Energy (DOE), Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC), and PNOC‑Exploration Corp. (PNOC‑EC) to fast‑track oil procurement activities.

He also cited the enactment of Republic Act No. 12316, which he signed on March 25, granting the President authority to suspend the collection of excise taxes on petroleum products when necessary.

According to Marcos, the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) is scheduled to meet this week to present its assessment on excise taxes amid the current energy situation.

EO 110 further empowers the DOE to recommend action by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) on the operation of the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), with the goal of stabilizing electricity prices and preventing sharp fluctuations.

“Simula March 26, pansamantalang sinuspinde na ng ERC ang WESM. Ibig sabihin, ipatutupad na ang optimal dispatch ng mas murang energy source tulad ng renewable,” the President said.

“Magkakaroon din ng kontrol ang gobyerno sa presyuhan sa WESM. Kasalukuyan itong inaayos na ng ERC.”

Long‑term energy solutions

Looking beyond immediate measures, Marcos pointed to progress in domestic energy development, particularly the successful drilling and testing of the Camago‑3 well, which he said has the potential to produce up to 60 million cubic feet of gas per day.

The additional gas output is expected to help stabilize power supply and reduce costs for Filipino electricity consumers, the President said.

Relief measures for transport sector and commuters

Marcos also detailed government assistance extended to transport workers, operators, and commuters affected by rising fuel costs.

Among the measures implemented are a 50 percent fare discount on LRT‑2 and MRT‑3, benefiting more than 12 million additional passengers, as well as the continued rollout of “Libreng Sakay” programs in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao.

Temporary toll discounts are also being provided to jeepneys, buses, and freight vehicles transporting food along NLEX, SLEX, and STAR, Marcos said.

He further announced that beginning April 15, ports will collect only a PhP1 roll‑on/roll‑off (RORO) terminal fee for vehicles carrying agricultural products.

Fuel subsidies and cash assistance

To ease the burden on drivers and operators, the government has allocated PhP2.5 billion in fuel subsidies for more than 1.4 million beneficiaries nationwide.

Marcos said fuel assistance totaling PhP300 million has already been distributed to 155 drivers and 55,252 unit operators.

In addition, over 256,000 transport workers in Metro Manila received PhP5,000 cash assistance, while PhP1.28 billion in additional support is being prepared, with nationwide distribution set to begin on April 6, he said.

The President reiterated that the government remains on full alert to ensure energy security and protect consumers and workers as global uncertainties continue. | PIA/PCO/PND

VIA THE PHILIPPINES HERALD

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MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday assured the public that the Philippines has enough fuel supply in the short term, even as the government continues to look for new oil sources amid global supply disruptions caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

Speaking at Malacañan Palace, Marcos said the administration remains focused on ensuring the availability and price stability of petroleum products, as uncertainties in the global oil market continue to affect supply routes and pricing.

He acknowledged that during the early stages of the crisis, oil suppliers were unable to give firm commitments on deliveries and prices as conditions in the international market were rapidly changing.

To address the situation, Marcos said government agencies were immediately instructed to make sure that existing oil import agreements are honored and that scheduled deliveries are not disrupted.

“So, our authorities are all continuing to find new sources for the supply. First of all, what we tried to do was to ensure that the contracts that we already had would be honored,” he said.

The President added that he directed the Department of Energy (DOE) to provide an updated assessment of the country’s fuel inventory, covering diesel, gasoline, kerosene, and jet fuel.

Based on the DOE’s report, Marcos said the Philippines currently has enough fuel stock to last 45 days, providing short‑term stability despite ongoing global tensions.

“And again, I credit the success of this ensuring the supply to the good relations that we have with our partner countries around the world,” he said.

“And although we cannot be assured right now of the supply, we can be sure that at least for 45 days we will be all right.”

Marcos noted that close coordination with suppliers, along with adjustments in delivery mechanisms, has helped keep fuel shipments moving and prevent immediate shortages.

He also instructed the DOE to continue negotiations for additional oil sources, citing persistent uncertainties in the global energy market due to disruptions affecting Middle East supply routes.

The President said the government is now looking beyond traditional suppliers and exploring alternative sources that are not affected by the ongoing conflict.

“And we have not only gone to the oil suppliers, the traditional oil suppliers, we have tried to explore other sources that are not affected by the war that is ongoing in the Middle East,” Marcos said.

“And it would be premature to say that we have perfected contracts with them. But I think it’s sufficient to say that things are beginning to open up.”

While long‑term fuel security cannot yet be fully guaranteed, Marcos expressed confidence that the country’s immediate needs will be met.

He said the government expects not only continued fuel deliveries within the current 45‑day window but also a steady flow of petroleum and related products beyond that period. (PNA)

via The Philippines Herald | Negosentro Media

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MANILA, Philippines – March 2026 — Copperstone Lending expressed strong support for the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) recent actions to protect Filipino borrowers, following the regulator’s release of an updated list of unauthorized online lending platforms (OLPs) and its move to lift the moratorium on new OLP registrations under stricter regulatory safeguards.

The SEC recently warned the public against numerous unregistered mobile apps and websites offering illegal lending services. They reiterated that these platforms are not authorized to offer, process, or provide lending services. The recent SEC report included the fake Moca Moca app “Moca Moca – Safe & Fast Loan”, among others. Copperstone Lending has been receiving reports of several fake apps, social media pages, and websites referencing them and their popular MocaMoca app. The Commission also encouraged consumers to transact only with duly authorized platforms and to report violations through the SEC’s official channels.

At the same time, the SEC issued draft guidelines for public comment that will formally lift and supersede SEC Memorandum Circular No. 10, Series of 2021, allowing financing and lending companies to disclose and operate OLPs, provided they comply with enhanced prudential, disclosure, and market conduct requirements.

The Commission explained that lifting the moratorium is intended to promote responsible innovation, stimulate economic activity among financing and lending companies, and ensure that online lending operations are aligned with consumer protection, market integrity, prudential objectives, financial inclusion, ease of market access, and global digitalization trends.

Copperstone Lending: Regulation Builds Trust and Financial Inclusion

Copperstone Lending stated that the SEC’s dual approach of cracking down on illegal operators while opening a clear, well‑regulated pathway for compliant digital lenders demonstrates a balanced, forward‑looking regulatory strategy.

The company noted that illegal online lending platforms undermine public trust, expose borrowers to abusive practices, and weaken confidence in the broader financial services sector. Copperstone Lending commended the SEC for actively identifying unauthorized platforms and urging the public to verify lenders through official government channels, describing the move as a critical step toward a safer, more transparent digital lending ecosystem.

Copperstone Lending also welcomed the SEC’s emphasis on capital adequacy, governance standards, disclosure requirements, and consumer protection measures, stating that these provisions help level the playing field for legitimate lenders that invest in compliance, technology, and ethical operations.

Clear Rules Encourage Responsible Digital Lending

Under the SEC’s proposed framework, financing and lending companies that intend to operate OLPs will be subject to tiered minimum paid‑up capital requirements based on the number of platforms they operate, with a maximum of 10 OLPs allowed per entity. The draft circular also introduces an asset‑based annual licensing fee structure and requires firms to submit a pre‑disclosure classification declaration before deploying any digital lending platform.

Copperstone Lending said these measures promote long‑term industry stability, discourage fly‑by‑night operators, and strengthen regulatory oversight in a rapidly expanding digital finance sector.

The company further emphasized that a transparent and well‑supervised regulatory environment benefits borrowers, responsible lenders, and the Philippine economy as a whole. According to Copperstone Lending, the SEC’s clear standards for capitalization, disclosures, and market conduct will help ensure that digital lending supports financial inclusion without compromising consumer welfare.

Call for Public Vigilance

Copperstone Lending echoed the SEC’s call for consumers to remain vigilant and to transact only with authorized online lending platforms. The company encouraged borrowers to consult the SEC’s official list of recorded OLPs and to report suspected illegal lending activities through the Commission’s hotline and online reporting portals.

As digital finance continues to grow, Copperstone Lending emphasizes the importance of collaboration among regulators, compliant lenders, and informed consumers to maintain market integrity. The company reaffirmed its support for the SEC’s initiatives and its commitment to contributing to a responsible, inclusive, and sustainable digital lending landscape in the Philippines.

About Copperstone Lending

Copperstone Lending Inc. (SEC Registration No. 2021050012959-04) is a Philippines‑based financing company committed to responsible lending, transparency, and customer‑centric financial solutions. The company supports regulatory initiatives that strengthen consumer protection, promote ethical market conduct, and advance sustainable financial inclusion.

Official Copperstone Lending Channels:
Website: https://copperstoneph.com
Facebook: @copperstoneph

via The Philippines Herald

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MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a measure designed to reduce food waste while expanding food donations to communities facing hunger.

Lawmakers voted 247 in favor, none against, and one abstention to pass House Bill No. 8043, which promotes the recovery of edible surplus food from restaurants, hotels, supermarkets, food manufacturers, and other large establishments for redistribution to people in need.

The proposal, commonly referred to as the Food Waste Reduction and Prevention Act, aims to establish a framework for businesses to donate excess food that remains safe for consumption instead of discarding it. The measure also encourages recycling or alternative use of food scraps that are no longer suitable for human consumption.

House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos said the measure responds to the paradox of food waste occurring alongside persistent hunger in many communities. He noted that redirecting surplus food to accredited food banks and charitable organizations could help families struggling to access regular meals.

Several lawmakers served as principal sponsors of the bill, including Jesus “Bong” Suntay, Marlyn Primicias-Agabas, Brian Poe, Janice Degamo, Raymond Adrian Salceda, Rufus Rodriguez, Maximo Rodriguez Jr., Agatha Paula Aguilar Cruz, Audrey Kay Zubiri, Salvador Pleyto, Jose Manuel “JM” Lagdameo, Timothy Joseph Cayton, Ciriaco Gato Jr., Rebecca Maria Alcantara-Ynares, Karen Lagbas, Lani Mercado-Revilla, Eulogio “Leo” Rodriguez, Arlyn Ayon, Robert Nazal, and Sarah Jane Elago, among others.

Under the proposed law, covered establishments would be encouraged to develop systems for identifying and segregating edible surplus food that can be safely donated to food banks, non-government organizations, and community feeding programs.

The bill also outlines mechanisms for managing food that is no longer safe for consumption. Instead of ending up in landfills, food waste may be redirected for composting, fertilizer production, animal feed, or other recycling processes, helping reduce environmental impact.

Government agencies and local governments would play a role in implementing the program. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is expected to help identify food-insecure communities and coordinate with accredited food banks and charitable groups that will distribute donated food.

Supporters of the measure say the initiative could help address both food insecurity and environmental sustainability by reducing the volume of food waste generated by commercial establishments.

If enacted, the proposed law could encourage restaurants, supermarkets, and food manufacturers to adopt more responsible food management practices while supporting feeding programs for vulnerable sectors.

The House-approved measure will now move through the legislative process as lawmakers await action on a corresponding bill in the Senate. Once both chambers approve their respective versions, the proposed law would be subject to bicameral reconciliation before it can be sent to the President for signature.

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“Upang ipagpatuloy ang mga magagandang nasimulan at maisakatuparan ang mga nakalatag na plano, naglalaan tayo ng higit animnapu’t tatlong bilyong piso para sa mga programang pang-irigasyon,” the President said during the 2026 NIA–NCIA General Assembly and Inspection of the NIA Command Center in Quezon City.

He emphasized that the funding aims to fast‑track the rehabilitation of aging irrigation facilities, repair damaged canals and water systems, and expand irrigation coverage nationwide.
“Inaasahan natin na ang pondong ito ay makakatulong sa rehabilitasyon ng mga lumang pasilidad, pagsasaayos ng mga sirang kanal at irrigation system, at ang pagpapalawak ng mga lugar na maaaring mabigyan ng serbisyo ng irigasyon,” he added.

According to the President, the ₱300‑billion agriculture budget will also support key programs such as seed procurement, farm‑to‑market road construction, expansion of post‑harvest and cold‑storage facilities, fertilizer support, and other initiatives meant to strengthen farmers’ productivity and resilience.

Marcos acknowledged that Filipino farmers continue to confront major challenges such as climate change, increasing production costs, and frequent natural disasters. These issues, he explained, significantly disrupt agricultural operations when irrigation supply becomes insufficient, or infrastructure is damaged—delaying planting schedules, lowering yields, and reducing income. He noted that around 30 percent of the country’s irrigable land remains without irrigation.

Given these realities, the President reaffirmed the administration’s focus on food security and agricultural modernization:
“Kaya’t nananatiling malinaw ang prayoridad nitong Administrasyon: Patatagin ang produksyon ng pagkain, itaguyod ang kapakanan ng bawat magsasaka, at palawakin ang irigasyon sa buong bansa.”

Highlighting recent accomplishments, President Marcos cited the Talavera River Super Diversion Canal Siphon in Nueva Ecija, where rehabilitation work originally scheduled for completion on March 1, 2026 was finished earlier—on February 1—underscoring the government’s capacity to deliver critical infrastructure ahead of schedule.

He also mentioned ongoing developments such as the collaboration between the University of the Philippines and Agrispecialist, Inc. to produce affordable and effective biofertilizers, which are expected to further boost farm yields.

President Marcos reiterated that the government will continue to accelerate agricultural services whenever necessary, ensuring that farmers receive timely assistance and improved access to crucial irrigation systems.

He concluded by expressing optimism that these interventions will significantly increase farm productivity and strengthen the country’s overall food security. | via PIA

The Philippines Herald | Negosentro Media Group

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