Pangilinan tackles food prices, seeks youth support for Senate bid

Former Senator and senatorial candidate Francis ‘Kiko’ Pangilinan reiterated his commitment to alleviating the burden of Filipinos affected by the rising costs of food, particularly the expected 30 percent increase in the retail price of fish during the Holy Week.

Speaking about the struggles of everyday Filipinos, Pangilinan expressed concern over the increasing difficulty of putting food on the table. “In the past, Holy Week was a time of sacrifice. Now, any day feels like a sacrifice just to buy food because of the high prices. The Filipino family’s dining table now carries the weight of the rising price of fish,” he said.

He emphasized that food should not be a privilege but a right, stressing his willingness to collaborate with both the government and private sector to reduce food prices. “Food should not be a privilege; it is a right. We prioritize lowering food prices and are ready to work with anyone. Hunger knows no color, and neither does the solution,” Pangilinan emphasized.

Pangilinan also expressed support for a petition urging the Supreme Court to reverse its earlier decision allowing commercial fishing vessels to operate within the 15-kilometer municipal water zone. He called for the reinstatement of the 15-kilometer rule, which gives preferential access to small-scale fishermen. "It’s a pity for the small fishermen who cannot compete with the bigger commercial vessels. What will happen to their livelihood if we continue to allow this?" Pangilinan said.

Additionally, he urged the government to take action against cartels manipulating market prices, which harm fishermen who depend on their daily catch for their livelihood.

Pangilinan, who is the principal author of the Sagip Saka Act, highlighted the importance of supporting local farmers and fisherfolk. The Act allows the government to directly purchase agricultural products without public bidding, providing fair opportunities for small-scale producers.

In his bid to return to the Senate, Pangilinan also appealed to the youth for support. With 39 days remaining before the May 2025 midterm elections, Pangilinan admitted that he and former senator Bam Aquino have a long way to go. “We are looking for those who supported us before, those who took a stand, acted, and fought with us,” he said during a visit to students at the Lyceum of the Philippines in Batangas on April 3. He emphasized that it’s time to fight again for the dream of a government that puts the people's welfare first.

Pangilinan shared how the trauma from the 2022 elections still affects many of their supporters, but encouraged them to move forward. “Those who were hurt, depressed, and saddened… it’s time to set aside the tears, regain our strength. It’s time to fight again and love again,” he added.

Despite being outside the Senate’s Magic 12 in pre-election surveys, Pangilinan remains hopeful, especially with support from the youth. He urged young people to use their influence to encourage others to vote based on candidates’ principles rather than appearance. "Don’t vote for me because I’m good-looking. Vote for candidates with good intentions, principles, and a clean track record," he said.

As part of his campaign in Batangas, Pangilinan plans to visit various local government units, including the Sampaguita Farm, the municipal halls of Nasugbi, Agoncillo, Alitagtag, Lemery, and the Butong Taal fisherfolk community. He will also pay courtesy calls to local chief executives.