Former senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan is once again urging stronger support for farmers as the government struggles to control rising food prices.
In a recent interview on Toni Talks with Toni Gonzaga, Pangilinan, now a senatorial candidate for the 2025 elections, recalled how a typhoon devastated his farm, giving him firsthand experience of the challenges Filipino farmers face.
“I didn’t start out in politics thinking I’d focus on agriculture. But then a typhoon hit my farm and wiped out everything. I experienced firsthand what farmers go through, and it changed me,” he shared.
“It’s not just about food security; it’s about justice for our farmers. Their struggle became my fight,” the candidate added.
Pangilinan previously served as presidential adviser on food security and agricultural modernization under the Aquino administration, overseeing key agencies like the National Food Authority (NFA) and the National Irrigation Administration.
His tenure focused on strengthening food security and modernizing agriculture.
From 2016 to 2022, he served as a senator before running as Leni Robredo’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2022 elections.
After his loss to Sara Duterte, Pangilinan took a step back from politics.
Despite past setbacks, Pangilinan remains committed to advocating for farmers' rights and agricultural reforms.
“I still have dreams for this country. I want to fight for our farmers, improve education, and bring about good governance.”
His renewed call for agricultural reform comes amid a food security crisis, with government efforts to lower rice prices struggling to take effect.
However, farmer groups have warned that price control measures should not come at the expense of those who produce the nation's food.
Photo Credits: Senate of the Philippines Website
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