Dy Returns to Isabela as House Speaker, Engages Farmers
Isabela — In a move that surprised many in the province, House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III returned to his home turf in Cauayan City for a strategic dialogue with farmers at the Isabela Convention Center (ICON) on Sept. 27. The gathering brought together provincial agriculturists, city and municipal staff, leaders of irrigation associations, farmers’ cooperatives, and local officials to discuss pressing agricultural concerns. It had been only about 10 days since Dy, representing Isabela’s 6th district, ascended to the Speakership, an elevation that many in the province viewed as timely given the production and livelihood issues faced by farmers.
Key Issues and Immediate Responses
Dy outlined major challenges facing the agricultural sector, including rice availability, post-harvest losses, and funding for storage and distribution infrastructure. He stressed that issues raised in recent weeks, particularly those surrounding the National Food Authority (NFA), require swift action and direct channels to the President. The Speaker emphasized that the dialogue was designed to ensure farmers’ concerns reach the highest levels of government and that practical solutions could be pursued in collaboration with the administration. He noted that both he and President Marcos belong to the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), underscoring a shared political approach to policy delivery.
Storage, Drying, and Market Access
Dy laid out plans to expand storage and distribution capacity as a central pillar of strengthening Isabela’s agricultural sector. He highlighted operating drying facilities in Cabagan, Echague, Cauayan, and San Mariano and announced that additional facilities are planned to improve accessibility for farmers across all six districts of Isabela. By reducing losses and stabilizing prices, the administration aims to support farmers from field to market and ensure a more reliable rice supply for the country.
Agency Coordination and Social Support
The Speaker called for strengthened coordination with provincial agencies and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to support tens of thousands of farmers. With Isabela boasting over 119,000 registered farmers, streamlined assistance is crucial for sustaining livelihoods during lean seasons and navigating supply-chain disruptions that affect input costs and profitability.
Farmers’ Requests and Policy Responses
During the dialogue, farmers raised concrete requests. Anak Bakir of San Mateo asked for additional solar dryers from the Department of Agriculture. A Cauayan-based farmer suggested converting fertilizer subsidies into cash, while a San Agustin producer requested seed subsidies in the form of hybrid seeds. Dy responded that the proposed P6.793-trillion 2026 national budget would include measures to support such needs, including cash assistance and crop insurance for up to one million farmers if the budget is approved, addressing both the fertilizer and seed subsidy pleas.
Looking Ahead: Building a Resilient Agricultural Sector
Dy reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening agricultural productivity and farmers’ livelihoods. He framed the dialogue as a platform to explore practical solutions, ensure responsible budgeting, and restore public confidence in Congress through targeted, tangible farmer support. As the 2026 GAB budget moves through plenary debates in the House of Representatives, Isabela’s farmers await the policy and funding decisions that will determine rice production levels and rural resilience in the months ahead.
