Department of Agriculture Davao Region (DA-11) Director Abel James Monteagudo. (PNA photo by Che Palicte)
DAVAO CITY – The top official of the Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-11) said Tuesday that the PHP20 per kilo price of rice is doable, especially with President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. concurrently leading the department starting next month.
In an interview, DA-11 Director Abel James Monteagudo noted that the PHP20 per kilo rice “has been a dream statement” of the incoming president, but cautioned that it might take a while considering various factors.
These factors, he said, include the looming price hikes on oil, fertilizers, and other world events that have ramifications for the agriculture industry.
“That statement does not mean that it will happen immediately. It was more of a dream of the president, hoping it will be achieved sooner,” Monteagudo said.
For instance, Monteagudo said the prices of fertilizer are being affected by the current Russian invasion of Ukraine.
“Ukraine is one of the biggest sources of fertilizer. We are somehow dependent on the fertilizer-producing countries, and it is one of the problems the president has to address,” he added.
Meanwhile, Monteagudo said the decision of Marcos Jr. to lead the agency would mean better and fast delivery of services to Filipino farmers.
“We accept his decision with open arms, and it’s very welcome news. It is something to look forward to,” he said. (PNA)
