IN a significant step toward revitalizing the agricultural sector and securing the country’s food future, the House of Representatives has approved on second reading House Bill No. 613, also known as the Young Farmers and Fisherfolk Challenge Act.

Introduced by Rep. Christopher V.P. de Venecia (Pangasinan, 4th District), the bill aims to reverse the trend of declining youth participation in farming and fisheries by creating an enabling environment for young Filipinos to engage in these vital sectors.

The bill addresses the alarming reality that the average age of Filipino farmers is between 57 and 59 years old. As the number of farmers continues to decline, House Bill No. 613 proposes the establishment of the Young Farmers and Fisherfolk Challenge Program, a comprehensive initiative that will encourage young people to pursue careers in agriculture and fisheries. The program is designed not only to foster youth participation in policy formulation but also to provide institutional support for the development of agri-businesses and agri-entrepreneurship, ensuring their roles as partners in agricultural modernization.

To oversee the program’s implementation, the bill seeks to create the Young Farmers and Fisherfolk Challenge Council, which will include representatives from various government agencies such as the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), among others. The Council will streamline access to essential resources for young farmers, including capacity-building programs, sources of credit, and marketing services. The bill also promotes the adoption of cutting-edge agricultural technologies, including smart farming, aquaponics, and organic farming, while facilitating access to trade fairs, subsidies, and marketing opportunities.

In addition, House Bill No. 613 extends significant support to young agricultural workers by guaranteeing scholarships and on-the-job training programs through partnerships with government agencies such as the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). The bill also mandates fee waivers for various government permits and licenses for young farmers and fisherfolk, making it easier for them to navigate the regulatory landscape. Furthermore, the bill offers tax exemptions for donations made to the Council, incentivizing private sector support.

“We need to make farming and fisheries more attractive to the youth by ensuring they are supported, valued, and empowered,” said de Venecia. “This bill will provide young Filipinos the opportunity to see agriculture not just as a means of livelihood, but as a promising career path that can contribute significantly to our nation’s food security and economic development.”

With the approval of House Bill No. 613 on second reading, the country is now one step closer to securing the future of agriculture and fisheries by empowering the next generation of farmers and fisherfolk.