Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion has expressed his support for President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr.’s decision to stay as the Department of Agriculture (DA) chief, lauding it as the chief executive’s "smart decision."
Concepcion believed that the structural changes in the Philippines’ agricultural sector could be Marcos’ "legacy," as he could quickly create reforms and make sure that the systems were in place to assist the country’s farmers.
He stated that his group and the business sector will "always be here to offer our expertise to assist the President in achieving his vision."
The Go Negosyo founder also backed Marcos' effort to encourage farm clustering as part of his administration's push for agricultural modernization.
Farm clustering was one of the recommendations made by Go Negosyo's KALAP and the think tank group Foundation for Economic Freedom (FEF) during a meeting with officials from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).
During the discussion with DAR, FEF representative Dr. Fermin Adriano said China, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia are among the other countries that have used farm clustering.
According to Concepcion, farm clustering would raise production, ensure food security, and increase farmer revenue.
He explained that farm clustering would entice large corporations to invest in them because they are primarily interested in leasing farm lands rather than purchasing them.
It would be easier for the government to provide loans and farm machinery to farmers, Concepcion added.
Earlier, Marcos mentioned he would appoint the next Agriculture chief if he had put in place efficient processes to assure food security in the department.
