HB10840: AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE YOUNG FARMERS AND FISHERFOLK CHALLENGE PROGRAM, CREATING FOR THE PURPOSE THE YOUNG FARMERS AND FISHERFOLK CHALLENGE COUNCIL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
This Act establishes the "Young Farmers and Fisherfolk Challenge Program" to support and empower young farmers and fisherfolk aged 15 to 40 years old, recognizing their vital role in food security and agricultural development. The Program aims to encourage youth engagement in agriculture, ensure their participation in policy formulation, and provide institutional support for agri-business and agri-entrepreneurship initiatives. A Young Farmers and Fisherfolk Challenge Council is created to oversee the Program's implementation, composed of representatives from various government departments like Agriculture, Trade and Industry, Education, Science and Technology, and organizations representing young farmers, fisherfolk, and women farmers.
The Council's functions include formulating the Program in consultation with research institutions, streamlining access to capacity-building and livelihood programs, identifying sources of credit, monitoring emerging best practices in agriculture, and improving market access. The bill also proposes integrating agriculture-related subjects into the K-12 system, ensuring scholarships, providing on-the-job training, and exploring short-term land leases for young farmers and fisherfolk. Donations to the Council are exempt from donor's tax and considered allowable deductions from gross income.