Hunger is the Enemy: Ensure Affordable Food for All!
February 4, 2025Hunger is the Enemy: Ensure Affordable Food for All!
Food security is not just a policy issue—it is a crisis affecting millions of Filipino families. The sharp rise in rice prices, coupled with the increasing costs of meat, vegetables, and seafood, has placed an unbearable strain on household budgets. A recent survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) revealed that 59% of Filipinos are struggling with these price hikes, while an overwhelming 94% of voters believe that leaders must prioritize agriculture and food security. These figures send a clear and urgent message: ensuring a stable, affordable, and nutritious food supply is not just an economic challenge—it is a national emergency.
The soaring cost of food does not discriminate, but its heaviest burden falls on the poor. When families are forced to cut back on meals, the effects ripple through every aspect of their lives. Hunger diminishes productivity, disrupts education, and erodes overall well-being. When food becomes a daily uncertainty, the very foundation of national stability is shaken. It is unacceptable that in an agricultural country like the Philippines, millions struggle to afford the most basic necessity—food.
The government must take decisive and immediate action. Strengthening local food production is critical, ensuring that farmers and fisherfolk receive the support they need to increase supply and stabilize prices. Investment in agricultural infrastructure, modern technology, and sustainable practices will not only improve productivity but also reduce dependence on costly imports. Equally important is the need for policies that shield consumers from excessive price surges, ensuring that every Filipino can afford to put nutritious meals on the table. A resilient and well-supported food system is the key to a stronger, more secure nation.
As the elections approach, food security must be placed at the forefront of national priorities. Leaders must champion real, actionable solutions—not just temporary relief or empty campaign promises. Voters, in turn, must use their voices and ballots to demand accountability and ensure that commitments translate into tangible, lasting change. A nation that cannot feed its people cannot move forward.