Senator Francis Pangilinan is pushing for reforms to simplify loan requirements for farmers and fisherfolk seeking government financial assistance.

In a news release Wednesday, Pangilinan said local government units and the Department of Agriculture (DA) must play a more active role in helping rural workers access loans and process their documents, particularly during disasters and emergencies.

“Dapat sila [farmers and fisherfolk] ang unang sinusuportahan at kung kailangan mabawasan yung mga requirements, ‘yun bubusisiin din natin (Farmers and fisherfolk should be prioritized for support. If requirements need to be reduced, we will look into that),” he said.

Many farmers and fisherfolk remain financially excluded despite being vital contributors to the country’s food supply, he added.

“We must make it easy for our agricultural workers to access capital, so they can grow their businesses and help the nation achieve food security,” he said.

Pangilinan said he is reviewing other possible reforms to the government’s agricultural loan policies, including faster approval times, more flexible repayment schemes, higher credit ceilings for performing borrowers, and specialized support for women and youth in agriculture.

The planned reforms align with Republic Act 11321 or the Sagip Saka Act, which Pangilinan authored to promote inclusive and enterprise-driven development in the farming and fisheries sectors.

The law allows national and local governments to directly procure produce from accredited farmers and fisherfolk, helping ensure income stability and market access. (PNA)