The Department of Agriculture (DA) says it has commissioned a thorough survey of farmers to check the level of aid distributed by the government following complaints of dissatisfaction among beneficiaries.
The survey will include recipients of machinery, post-harvest services, seeds, and fertilizers distributed by the DA and its agencies, including the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanisation.
Farmers and cooperatives will be asked about the performance of the machines, availability of spare parts, after-sales service, and overall satisfaction with the products received.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. he said the investigation was prompted by complaints from a group of farmers, although he noted that routine audits did not reveal any systemic irregularities.
“If there are mistakes or wrongdoings, we will correct them,” said Mr. Laurel.
The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority of the DA is currently preparing for the trial of two fertilizer companies in the state of Caraga.
Mr. Laurel also rejected claims that the procurement favors a single supplier, pointing out that the farm machinery was sourced from various international companies such as Kubota and Yanmar, while the rice processing machinery came from the Buhler Group and Satake.
He acknowledged reports of equipment malfunctions, including the Chinese harvester mentioned in the report, adding that each incident would be reviewed.
The investigation is scheduled to conclude by the end of March, with an official report to be presented to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and Congressional agriculture oversight committees.
The DA also intends to test the Intervention Monitoring Cards for fertilizer assistance in Southern Leyte this year, with the possibility of expanding the program nationwide in 2027 if it clears the tests.
Mr. Laurel said the cards would provide a transparent and accountable way to deliver fertilizer aid, although she rejected proposals for a voucher-based seed system.
In a Wednesday briefing, Agriculture Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Arnel V. de Mesa said the investigation will cover all regions, commodities, programs, studies and procurement activities.
“What the Secretary does not want is unusual evidence. There are one or two complaints. The Secretary wants to know if this is widespread or if it is really happening,” said Mr. de Mesa.
In February, the Federation of Free Farmers and MAGSASAKA Party-List issued a joint statement reporting that beneficiaries had problems using low-quality materials and equipment, such as seeds with increased germination rates, inappropriate types of fertilizers, and equipment with insufficient after-sales service.
The groups added that many government-subsidized rice mills and processing facilities are left idle or underutilized because the recipients do not have sufficient operating capital or capacity to manage themselves. – Pierce Oel A. Montalvo
