The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) expressed disappointment over the fact that agriculture modernization in the Philippines has been sidelined during the pandemic when the sector could be the key to recovery.
“The modernization of the agriculture sector has been sidelined in favour of services and manufacturing during this pandemic period. It is very unfortunate because agriculture is the main economic activity in the countryside, where it employs about 25 percent of our population, combined with agribusiness, the sector provides employment to 40 percent of the Filipino people,” said.
Benedicto Yujuico, president of PCCI, at a forum for Israeli delegation.
Yujuco stressed investing in agriculture can boost local economic development, and bring an essential sector in improving productivity that will ensure strong food value chains, promote vibrant rural economies, and promote and sustain the growth of the country post the new coronavirus disease 2019.
The pandemic, he said, has underscored the need to achieve good sufficiency through modernization of our Philippine agriculture.
“Crucial to improving productivity in the sector is innovation through cutting edge technologies,” Yujuico said, as he cited the achievements of Israel in these fields.
“We are in awe at how Israel, with only 20 percent of the land is arable, is not only able to produce its own food, but it’s also a key exporter, with $ 1.2 billion worth of agri inputs and technology sold abroad,” he said.
