THE TUG-OF-WAR in Western Visayas between advancing development and preserving agricultural lands captures a broader challenge facing many growing regions. As localities continue to expand with industrial, real estate, and commercial projects, the conversion of fertile agricultural lands raises critical concerns about future food security. This situation certainly deserves urgent attention and strategic action.
While the region boasts some of the largest rice planting areas in the country, Western Visayas reports a production rate of only 3.4 metric tons per hectare, significantly below the national average of four metric tons, according to the Department of Agriculture. The DA pinpoints not land scarcity but suboptimal productivity as the primary obstacle. Despite this, the encroachment of development into agricultural zones cannot be ignored as a threat that could exacerbate food insecurity if left unchecked.
The balance between necessary economic growth and agricultural sustainability is delicate. Urban development is undoubtedly vital for the region’s economy, offering jobs, enhancing infrastructure, and improving living standards. However, it should not come at the expense of the very lands that feed the populace and fuel a significant portion of the local economy. Given the reduced agricultural output last year — a drop of 2.5 percent or 58,435.4 metric tons from the previous year according to the Philippine Statistic Authority — the need for effective land use policies has never been more apparent.
Without a doubt, the challenges are intersecting. But certainly, policy-makers must implement and enforce stricter zoning laws that rigorously limit agricultural land conversion. Preservation of agricultural land should be seen not just as a policy preference but as a mandate for maintaining regional and national food security.
Also, investment in agricultural technology and infrastructure must be increased. As Regional Executive Director Dennis Arpia of the DA suggests, adopting high-yielding technologies such as hybrid seeds is essential. This season, the DA Region 6 aims to plant hybrid seeds on 60,000 hectares to counteract production shortfalls exacerbated by El Niño. Expanding this initiative could significantly boost productivity and make the agriculture sector more resilient.
Of course, support for farmers must be enhanced through education and resources for best practices in farming. Soil testing, proper irrigation, and fertilization techniques adapted to local conditions can improve yields and sustainability. These require robust backing from both government and private sectors, integrating financial, technical, and educational support systems.
Development should not overshadow the importance of fertile lands. Western Visayas needs a strategy that not only supports urban expansion but also firmly safeguards and invests in its agricultural base. This will be the cornerstone of true progress and sustainability in the region. As we build our cities, towns and provinces, we should not undermine the very soil that sustains them.
