Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan reaffirmed his commitment to achieving food security, lowering food prices, and increasing farmers’ and fisherfolk’s incomes by underscoring the role of technology and innovation in advancing the agriculture and fisheries sectors during a recent visit to Naga City.
Despite the recent leadership deadlock in the Senate that ended with the election of Senator Win Gatchalian as Senate President, the lawmaker remained firm in his push to address the needs of farmers, fisherfolk, and Filipino consumers.
“While the past weeks have slowed the progress of passing critical legislation, the responsibility to our people does not end when legislative work and debates become difficult,” he said.
“Patuloy tayong nagtatrabaho at magtatrabaho. Palagi naman tayo napapaligiran ng pulitika, pero hindi dapat natitigil ang trabaho. Kaya tayo nagpunta sa Naga para siguraduhing natutugunan natin ang pangangailangan ng mga tao,” the senator added.
As one of the keynote speakers at the “10th ClickConEx: Convergence of Luzon ICT Champions and Exhibitions,” the senator called on local government units, academic institutions, technology innovators, and the private sector to work together to advance smart agriculture and climate-resilient solutions that will benefit Filipino farmers and fisherfolk.
He highlighted that innovation should complement—not replace—the expertise and experience of Filipino farmers.
The lawmaker also underscored the importance of ensuring that technological advancements remain accessible and responsive to the needs of agricultural communities.
Pangilinan, who resumes his chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, attended the event with Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo and Senator Bam Aquino.
The trio held a private lunch meeting afterward.