Villar files bill to boost Philippine corn industry, ensure affordable food and feeds

SEN. Camille A. Villar has filed Senate Bill (SB) 1591 seeking to strengthen the Philippine corn industry, citing its critical role in national food security, rural employment, and the affordability of staple food and animal feeds.

Introduced on Dec. 10, 2025, the proposed measure aims to develop the corn sector, enhance the availability and affordability of quality feeds and staple food, and establish a Corn Competitiveness Enhancement Fund to support farmers and industry stakeholders.

In her explanatory note, Villar anchored the bill on Section 1, Article XII of the 1987 Constitution, which mandates the State to pursue equitable economic growth, promote industrialization grounded in sound agricultural development, and protect Filipino enterprises from unfair foreign competition.

“Corn plays a critical role in the Philippine agricultural economy as both a staple food and the primary raw material for the feed industry,” Villar said.

She noted that corn is the country’s second most important crop after rice, serving as food for millions of Filipinos and as a key input for livestock and poultry production—sectors essential to ensuring stable supplies of meat, eggs, and other basic food commodities.

Despite its importance, Villar pointed out that the corn industry continues to face longstanding challenges. These include high production costs, low farm yields, limited access to post-harvest facilities, inadequate research and development support, and increasing vulnerability to climate-related risks such as droughts and extreme weather.

Under the proposed measure, government support would be expanded to improve productivity, modernize farming practices, and enhance competitiveness across the corn value chain. The bill envisions targeted interventions to help farmers increase yields and income, reduce post-harvest losses, and better integrate local corn production into domestic supply chains.

Villar said strengthening the corn industry would have far-reaching benefits beyond farmers, as it would help stabilize feed prices and, in turn, curb the rising cost of meat and other food products.

“By strengthening the corn industry, the country not only safeguards its food supply chain but also builds resilience against external shocks, such as fluctuations in global feed prices,” she said.

The measure is also expected to generate rural employment and contribute to poverty reduction in agricultural communities, in line with the Constitution’s directive to provide all regions and sectors of the economy with optimum opportunities for development.

If enacted, SB 1591 would complement existing agricultural modernization and food security initiatives, while reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting local farmers and protecting domestic industries.

“In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought,” Villar said, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the structural issues confronting the corn sector amid rising food demand and climate challenges.