THE House of Representatives, under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, will remain a decisive force in President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s mission to combat poverty and drive economic recovery, with food security as a cornerstone of its 2025 agenda.
House Assistant Majority Leader and Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre made this assurance following a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showing that 63% of Filipino families consider themselves poor, the highest level in 21 years.
The December 2024 survey revealed a steady rise in self-rated poverty throughout the year, highlighting the economic challenges millions of Filipinos face.
Acidre said these findings reinforce the urgency of ongoing efforts to address these issues.
“These figures highlight the urgency of our work in the House under the capable leadership of Speaker Romualdez, while also underscoring the potential impact of the measures we are putting in place,” Acidre said.
“Food security remains central to our efforts to alleviate poverty and improve the quality of life for every Filipino family,” he added.
At the forefront of the House’s initiatives is the Murang Pagkain Supercommittee, also known as the Quinta Committee, a flagship effort launched by Speaker Romualdez.
This supercommittee unites five key committees to address high food prices, smuggling, and inefficiencies in the supply chain.
The committee has begun investigations into rising food costs, particularly rice, and is working with agencies like the National Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Internal Revenue to crack down on profiteering.
“We are tackling the root causes of food insecurity. By ensuring affordable food for all, we are addressing one of the most pressing concerns of Filipino families,” Acidre said.
Beyond food security, the House continues to work closely with the executive branch to advance programs aimed at reducing poverty, such as the 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) and other economic stimulus measures.
Acidre also pointed to efforts to empower local industries, provide support to small farmers, and implement targeted subsidies as crucial steps toward long-term economic recovery.
“The rising self-rated poverty level is a challenge we must face head-on,” Acidre said.
He added: “Let this survey remind us of our shared mission: to uplift the lives of every Filipino and build a future where prosperity is within reach for all.”
While the survey results highlight significant challenges, Acidre expressed confidence in the ability of the House and the Marcos administration to implement solutions.
“These numbers show the challenges we face, but they also drive us to work harder for the Filipino people. With the right policies and programs, we can turn this around,” Acidre stressed.
As 2025 begins, Acidre said the House is committed to sustaining its efforts to combat poverty and strengthen the economy, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind. (END)
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