How are Filipino farmers, fishers affected by the Middle East crisis?

2026-03-13 - 08:35

Filipino farmers and fisherfolk are feeling the strain from rising oil prices due to the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran. Farmers and fisherfolk who rely on fuel to produce food are facing higher diesel and electricity costs. Imported fertilizer and animal feeds may also face disruption and price hikes, affecting output. As assistance, the government has prepared fuel subsidy for select eligible farmers and fisherfolk. Higher input costs These sectors need fuel to power tractors, irrigation pumps, and boats — equipment necessary for food production and agricultural operations. When input goes up, production may become limited, affecting income. Fishermen would go on less fishing trips. Lower production may push up retail prices. Reduced fish landings may cause a spike in prices of tilapia, bangus, and yellowfin tuna. Both producers and consumers are going to feel the strain of volatile global oil markets. According to agricultural group Sinag, reports from the ground indicate that the rental of tractors had gone up to around P8,000 to P9,000 from P5,000 to P6,000. Fishers, meanwhile, have experienced a P500-fuel cost spike. Fertilizer bags which used to cost P1,500 on average are now selling for P2,000 to P2,150, according to the group. Higher fertilizer costs could lead to lower application and yield. The Philippines imports some of its fertilizer supply from the Middle East. Department of Agriculture spokesman Arnel de Mesa said there are alternative sources for fertilizers. “It can easily be compensated.” The sugar industry in particular, currently at the peak of the harvest season, has called for government intervention in securing fuel and fertilizer supply. Must Read Gulf crisis: How global oil supply disruptions impact the Philippines Exports and shipping delays Even Filipino producers engaged in international trade are bracing for adverse impact. Produce for export may face shipping delays, risking spoilage and higher freight costs. Delivery delays also reduce Filipino producers’ competitiveness against foreign producers who have more secure logistics. “If these disruptions persist, they could have lasting consequences for the Philippines’ participation in global agricultural supply chains, particularly for perishable commodities where timing and quality are essential,” DA’s briefer on the crisis said. Top export commodities to the Middle East as of 2024 are bananas, pineapple, dates, figs, avocados, guavas, mangoes, and mangosteen. In 2024, the value of Philippine exports to the Middle East rose to $321 million, a $68-million increase from the past year. Limited subsidy The DA still has fuel subsidy worth P150 million unused from the 2025 budget. With P100 million already in the hands of the agency, the DA said they can already distribute the fund to eligible farmers and fishers. A farmer gets P5,000 while a fisherman can get P3,000. The government will prioritize those who have not yet availed of the fuel subsidy. The DA identified around 28,000 farmers and fishers as eligible for subsidy. The DA estimates there are around 10 million farmers and fisherfolk. Almost 3 million are rice farmers. – Rappler.com