Marcos Directs DA to Strengthen Ties with Farmer Cooperatives

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered the Department of Agriculture (DA) to collaborate closely with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) to strengthen and support farmer cooperatives across the country.

Marcos made the announcement during the inauguration of the Sorosoro Ibaba Development Cooperative (SIDC) Grains Terminal and Trading Project in Batangas on Thursday.

“I have tasked the DA to work with the CDA to strengthen cooperatives of our farmers,” Marcos said.

He emphasized that the government will help cooperatives acquire modern machinery and post-harvest facilities to boost productivity and income.

Push for Agricultural Consolidation

Marcos reiterated his vision of consolidating farmers into cooperatives and organized groups, stressing that a united and well-managed cooperative has a stronger voice and bargaining power.

“If you are only one person, you have only one voice. But if you build a cooperative that is managed well, like SIDC, you can achieve more,” he explained.

At the start of his presidency, Marcos called on Congress to amend the Cooperative Code, aiming to increase cooperatives’ production capacity and market influence.

The administration’s push for food security is guided by science, sustainability, and responsible production, ensuring long-term benefits for both present and future generations.