New Livestock Development and Competitiveness Act Set to Transform Food Access
The Livestock Development and Competitiveness Act is poised to become a landmark law for food affordability in the Philippines, pending President Marcos’ signature. Local leaders hailed this legislation as a game-changer that will directly address the needs of Filipino families striving for affordable and safe food.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez emphasized the bill’s role in fulfilling the administration’s commitment to food security and rural progress. “This measure brings us closer to what every Filipino family deserves: affordable, safe food on the table and meaningful livelihood for those who feed the nation,” he said. The law harmonizes the House and Senate versions and is now ready for enrollment and transmission to Malacañang.
Empowering Filipino Families Through Livestock Development and Competitiveness Act
As Leyte’s 1st district representative, Romualdez described the legislation as a cornerstone of the new administration’s vision, balancing the needs of consumers and producers. “Batas ito para sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino na nangangarap ng abot-kayang pagkain, mas maayos na kabuhayan at kinabukasang may kasiguruhan para sa kanilang mga anak,” he shared.
The law aims to boost local production of pork, chicken, dairy, and eggs by empowering smallholder farmers and modernizing the supply chain. It provides critical support such as access to credit, veterinary services, and post-harvest infrastructure—resources that backyard raisers and livestock farmers have long awaited.
Building a Sustainable and Inclusive Livestock Industry
By investing in feed mills, slaughterhouses, cold storage, and logistics, the Livestock Development and Competitiveness Act encourages growth in rural areas and creates agricultural jobs. Romualdez highlighted, “Through this measure, we’re creating the conditions for sustained rural development. Jobs will follow where there is investment. That’s how you empower communities from the ground up.”
The law also enhances biosecurity and food safety standards to protect against animal diseases and guarantee the quality of meat and dairy products. “Health and safety go hand in hand with affordability. Kung hindi mura ang pagkain, mas mahihirapan ang ating mga kababayan. Kaya sinisiguro ng batas na ito na hindi lamang bababa ang presyo ng pangunahing bilihin, safe at masustansya din ang ating pagkain,” Romualdez said, underscoring that nutritious and affordable food must go together.
Unified Effort Toward Food Sovereignty and Rural Growth
Romualdez praised the swift cooperation between the House and Senate in finalizing the bill, reflecting the government’s unified focus on agriculture and food sovereignty. He thanked key committee leaders who balanced sectoral interests with the national good, noting that legislation like this proves real progress is possible when Congress and the Executive work in harmony.
With the President’s signature, this game-changer law will become a vital tool for economic inclusion, grassroots empowerment, and national food resilience. It signals a hopeful future where Filipino families can enjoy affordable, safe food and improved livelihoods.
For more news and updates on livestock development, visit Filipinokami.com.