In this Article
The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) article highlights the challenges faced by the Philippine agriculture sector, particularly in the case of Jerry M. Abat, a 60-year-old rice farmer from La Union.
Image Source: PIDS
Filipino rice farmers, like Jerry M. Abat, are facing a labor shortage. This phenomenon is attributed to aging farmers and declining interest among younger generations in pursuing agricultural careers, largely due to lower income levels resulting from rising production costs and farm input costs. The average age of Filipino rice farmers is 56 and continues to climb, with analysts warning of a critical shortage within the next decade. The average cost of production per hectare of rice increased from P65,000 in 2023 to P75,000 in 2024, while farm incomes have remained largely stagnant.
Inflation in the Philippines dropped to its lowest level in nearly five years in March, with the annual rate increasing to 1.8% due to slower increases in food and transport costs. The decline in Filipino farmers threatens food security and increases reliance on imports. To sustain agriculture, the country must attract young farmers, modernize farming, and improve rural livelihoods. Investing in mechanization, smart farming and climate-resilient techniques, along with regenerative farming practices, vertical farming, and stronger food supply chains, will help ensure long-term sustainability.
In a PIDS report, economist Roehlano M. Briones emphasized the need to raise the productivity of farm workers to maintain competitiveness. The study noted that the correlation between average daily basic pay and level of education tends to be stronger in industry and services than in agriculture. The report recommends governance reforms, investments in research, improved credit access, mechanization, irrigation improvements, and trade liberalization. The state should also shift support from subsidies to long-term investments in public goods.
Reference:
Hufana, Chloe Mari A. (10, April 2025). Hunger knocks on door as Philippine farmers vanish. Philippine Institute for Development Studies. Retrieved July 19, 2025, from https://pids.gov.ph/details/news/in-the-news/hunger-knocks-on-door-as-philippine-farmers-vanish
