ABA is a coalition of groups that represent the rural poor (such as farmers, fisher folk, upland settlers, agricultural workers), the urban poor, and other disadvantaged and marginalized citizens. Irrigators Associations.
3. Agri-Aqua Development Coalition - Mindanao.
4. Adhikain ng Mamamayang Isinusulong ang Reporma.
5. Provincial Cooperative Unions of Davao and Davao Oriental.
6. Kanlungan ng B
uhay “pro-family network”. WHO ARE THE NOMINEES/LEADERS OF ABA?
1. Leonardo “Leonie” Montemayor: President, ABA and FFF; former ABA Congressman and Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary.
2. Antonio “Tony” Reyes, Sr: AFNIANS National President; Past National President, NIA Employees Association of the Philippines and National Federation of Employees Associations of the DA.
3. Baltazar “Bal” Sator: Long-time FFF Legal Counsel and former Congressman, second district of Davao del Norte.
4. Romeo “Romy” Arauag: Farmer-entrepreneur.
5. Ramon “Jun” Canastre, Jr: Board Chairman, Federation of Free Farmers Cooperatives, and President, Davao City FFF Chapter. WHAT HAS THE ABA ACCOMPLISHED? Since its establishment in 1997, ABA has worked for the following:
1. Exemption of cooperatives from the expanded value-added tax (EVAT), Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms Act, Organic Agriculture Act of 2010, strengthening of the crop insurance program, Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act, Comprehensive Integrated Shelter Financing Act, Indigenous People’s Rights Act, Fisheries Code, Clean Air Act, Safeguard Measures Act, National Land and Water Use bill.
2. Prompt proclamation of government lands for socialized housing.
3. Proposed amendments to Urban Development and Housing Act.
4. Organic Agriculture and Coconut Farm Development Programs.
5. Early recovery and proper use of the coconut levy.
6. Protection of the traditional natural family as society’s foundation. WHAT ARE THE OTHER PRIORITIES OF ABA?
1. Climate change mitigation program with full participation of local communities, farmers, and forest occupants.
2. Sufficient budgets for agrarian reform, agriculture and fisheries programs (especially in irrigation).
3. Processing/“value-adding” and “market linkage” projects in the agriculture and fisheries sectors.
4. On-site/in-city housing for the urban poor.
5. Strengthened micro-finance system.
