Signing of agri modernization bill seen

MANILA, Philippines - A bill seeking to implement environment-friendly agricultural modernization is set to be signed into law, administration lawmakers said yesterday.

Congress earlier approved the measure titled “An Act Promoting Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Development in the Country,” which was a consolidation of House Bill 6548 and Senate Bill 338, authored by Batangas Rep. Mark Llandro Mendoza, and Senators Bong Revilla Jr., Manny Villar and Francis Pangilinan.

Lawmakers said the agricultural and fisheries mechanization was one of the vital programs the government must pursue to enhance food security and fight poverty in the country.

“We are very confident the President would give due course to the proposed Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization (AFMech) Law,” the authors said.

The measure seeks the formulation of a comprehensive National Agri-Fishery Mechanization Program by the Department of Agriculture (DA), and formation of an Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Committee under the National Agricultural and Fishery Council (NAFC), which will serve as advisory body.

The proposed law also provides for the responsibilities of local government units, like undertaking applied research, extension, dispersal, management and regulation of agricultural and fisheries machinery and equipment, including the collection of fees.

It also seeks to impose penalties and sanctions on prohibited acts like selling, mortgaging or leasing of agricultural and fishery machinery not registered with the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards, among others.

The authors said the proposed law would ensure the development and adoption of modern, appropriate, cost-effective, and environmentally safe agricultural and fishery equipment.

Likewise, it would provide a conducive-environment for local assembling and manufacturing of engines, machinery and equipment for agricultural and fisheries production, processing and marketing.

It also strengthens support services such as credit facilities, research, training and extension programs, rural infrastructures, post harvest facilities and marketing services.

The bill aims to deliver integrated support services for farmers, fishers and other stakeholders, and assist them in managing their projects.