By Jasper Almirante/ Bulatlat

Bulatlat.com

Now amounting to P150 billion (about $2.8 billion), the coco levy fund remains in the hands of government and is being traded to some powers-that-be in return for some favor. Taken from coconut farmers during the Marcos dictatorship in the 1970s, the fund is now the subject of a bill filed by a peasant leader, Anakpawis Rep. Rafael Mariano, which seeks to release it in favor of the coconut farmers. In the Philippines, social justice is as elusive as ever but House Bill 3715 could be a step toward raising farmers’ hopes – at least.

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