May 2020, Southeast Asia

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — The agriculture sector got a big boost after various local government units (LGUs) purchased ₱1.58 billion worth of fresh produce from local farmers during the lockdown, Agriculture Secretary William Dar said on Friday.

Dar said 245 LGUs across the country bought mostly rice, fruits and vegetables, which were included in the relief bags distributed to residents affected by the coronavirus lockdown.

He said this came following the department’s call on cities, municipalities and provinces in April to include in food packs nutrient-dense products, and not just canned goods.

“A month ago, we recommended to local chief executives kung pwede di lang delata ang ipamamahagi sa constituencies nila [if possible, not only canned good are distributed to their constituencies],” Dar said in a Laging Handa briefing.