Ceremonial Signing of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act (Speech)

Kalayaan Hall, Malacañan Palace
September 26, 2024


"Today, we come together not merely to protect but to uplift the very hands that cultivate our fields and fish our waters, as we embark on the pivotal journey of enacting the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stated during the signing of Republic Act No. 12022, known as the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, in a ceremony at the Kalayaan Hall in Malacañan Palace on September 26, 2024.

In his speech, President Marcos Jr. emphasized the importance of protecting Filipino farmers and fisherfolk from illicit activities such as smuggling, hoarding and cartel operations.

He highlighted how these crimes have severely affected the livelihoods of agricultural workers, compromised the country's food security and contributed to rising prices of essential commodities.

"And let me be clear: this law does not just target the masterminds; it holds all accomplices accountable — financiers, brokers, employees and even transporters," the President asserted.

He also pointed out that agricultural smuggling alone cost the country over PhP3 billion in 2023; in just the first nine (9) months of this year, more than PhP230 million worth of smuggled agricultural products were seized.

Additionally, the Chief Executive emphasized that the Law safeguards public health by preventing the sale of unsanitary agricultural products while ensuring affordable, locally sourced goods and supporting farmers and fisherfolk.

As part of the Administration's vision for a 'Bagong Pilipinas,' he assured the public that the government would take decisive action to restore trust in institutions, uphold justice and secure the future of the nation’s agricultural sector.

"As we pave the path with integrity and dedication, let us envision a Philippines where our farmers flourish, our markets filled with locally sourced produce and no parent has to worry about feeding their children because of spiraling food prices," President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. concluded in his speech.

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