CAGAYAN de Oro City 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez has called on the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to also exempt the distribution of fertilizer and fuel subsidies to farmers from the election campaign spending ban.
Earlier, Rodriguez urged the Comelec to allow the distribution of P6,500 financial assistance to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers.
“I believe that the fertilizer and fuel ayuda for the agriculture sector be exempted as well," Rodriguez said in a statement.
Deputy Speaker Rodriguez said while he welcomed the Comelec decision declaring that the release of financial assistance to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers is not covered by the ban, the poll should also spare ayuda to farmers from the prohibition.
He said he has constituents in the farming and transportation sectors of Cagayan de Oro City, and in Northern Mindanao who are awaiting the funds that the national government has already set aside for them.
He added that farmers need the money for preparing their farms before the expected onset of the rainy season next month or in June.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has stopped the distribution of funds upon orders of the Comelec.
According to DA Secretary William Dar, the order covers not only cash assistance to farmers but the procurement of farm implements and machineries as well.
Dar said he has already made an appeal to the Comelec.
Rodriguez said he is confident that the poll body would favorably act on the DA secretary’s appeal.
He said in the event an exemption is given, the DA should insulate the release of the money from any political influence.
In areas where it is possible, he said the agency should distribute the funds through online means. (Ben Balce)
