TACLOBAN CITY — The House of Representatives, led by Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, remains a key ally in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s anti-poverty and economic recovery agenda, with food security as a top priority for 2025.
Thus stressed Assistant majority leader and Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre who reaffirmed this commitment following a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showing 63% of Filipino families self-identify as poor—the highest rate in 21 years.
“These figures underscore the urgency of our work under Speaker Romualdez’s leadership and highlight the potential impact of the measures we’re implementing,” Acidre said in a statement.
“Food security remains central to our efforts to alleviate poverty and improve the quality of life for Filipino families.”
At the forefront of the House’s initiatives is the ‘Murang Pagkain’ super committee, or Quinta Committee, launched by Speaker Romualdez.
This flagship effort unites five key committees to tackle high food prices, smuggling, and supply chain inefficiencies. The committee is investigating rising food costs, particularly rice, and collaborating with agencies like the National Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Internal Revenue to combat profiteering.
“We are addressing the root causes of food insecurity. Ensuring affordable food for all is one of the most pressing concerns of Filipino families,” Acidre emphasized.
Beyond food security, the House is working with the executive branch on poverty reduction programs such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and economic stimulus measures. Acidre highlighted support for local industries, small farmers, and targeted subsidies as essential to long-term recovery.
“The rising self-rated poverty level is a challenge we must face head-on,” he said. “Let this survey remind us of our shared mission: to uplift every Filipino and build a future where prosperity is within reach for all.”
Despite the challenges, Acidre expressed confidence in the House and the Marcos administration’s ability to implement effective solutions. “These numbers reflect the struggles of many, but they also fuel our determination to work harder. With the right policies, we can turn this around,” he stressed.
As 2025 begins, Acidre assured that the House remains committed to combating poverty and ensuring no Filipino is left behind.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
