President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said his administration would focus on enhancing crucial farm-to-market roads and modernizing the agricultural sector to prioritize the nation's farmers and food security.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Marcos underscored the significance of ensuring food security for all Filipinos instead of lowering tariffs on agricultural imports.

"Our farmers are the backbone of our nation, and their well-being is our utmost concern," Marcos said.

President Marcos Jr. emphasized that improving the country's infrastructure would help reduce post-harvest losses, boost agricultural productivity, and, most importantly, improve the livelihoods of Filipino farmers.

Furthermore, the administration is committed to strengthening the National Agricultural and Fisheries Modernization and Industrialization Plan (NAFMIP).

President Marcos Jr. elaborated on the plan's objectives, saying, "We must embrace innovation and modernize our agricultural and fisheries sectors."

"This means investing in research and development, technology adoption, and sustainable practices that can propel us into a more secure food future," he added.

The NAFMIP aims to harness technology and sustainable farming practices to increase agricultural productivity, enhance the quality of farm products, and promote value addition in the fisheries sector.

"While we understand the need for affordable food, we believe that our primary responsibility is to empower our farmers. By investing in their capacity and improving their access to markets, we can strike a balance that benefits both our farmers and consumers," Marcos said.

Meanwhile, Marcos on Tuesday thumbed down the decision not to lower tariffs on agricultural imports.

Marcos, who is also the Department of Agriculture secretary, rejected the proposal after a meeting in Malacañang where the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) gave an update on the proposal at the meeting.

"It was not the right time to lower the tariff rates because world rice prices project that it will go down. So, this is not the right time to lower tariffs," the Chief Executive said.

"Tariffs are generally lowered when the price goes up," he added.

NEDA and the Department of Budget and Management had previously proposed to temporarily stop charging taxes on imported rice to lower the cost of rice in the country.