Hunger rate hits 27.2%, Go urges more support for farmers

The Philippines' hunger rate has reached 27.2 percent, with 27.2 percent of families reporting involuntary hunger in the past three months, according to a recent Social Weather Stations survey. This marks the highest level since the COVID-19 pandemic's peak in 2020.

Senator Bong Go expressed concern over the rise in hunger, noting a jump from 25.9 percent in December 2024. Hunger levels in the Visayas spiked to 33.7 percent.

Go emphasized the need for greater support for farmers to combat long-term hunger, stressing that improving agricultural productivity and access to resources is key to addressing food insecurity.

“The solution lies in supporting our farmers and strengthening agriculture,” Go said. He has authored laws to improve rural development, including expanding credit access for farmers and condoning debt for agrarian reform beneficiaries.

Go also advocates for better food distribution systems, including Farm-to-Table markets and more food storage facilities, to reduce hunger.

As Chair of the Senate Youth Committee, Go urged the government to encourage young people to pursue careers in agriculture by offering scholarships and modern farming education.

He concluded by stressing that food and health security must go hand in hand. “It’s hard to treat illness when you're hungry,” Go said.