Crising, monsoon destroy P96.9M crops

The Department of Agriculture (DA) reported P96.9 million in agricultural damage and losses caused by the combined effects of the Southwest Monsoon and Tropical Cyclone Crising, affecting 4,665 farmers across several regions.

In a report on Monday, the DA said the affected areas include the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, and Western Visayas, with production losses in rice, corn, high-value crops, and livestock and poultry across 6,037 hectares of farmland.

“These values are subject to validation. Further damage and losses are expected in affected regions as assessment and validation is ongoing,” the DA said.

The Department of Public Works and Highways, on the other hand, reported that some national road sections in the Cordillera Administrative Region, and Regions III, IV-A, and IX remain closed or have limited access due to the storm, potentially affecting the transport of agricultural goods.

To assist affected farmers, the DA is offering P133.09 million worth of rice, corn, and vegetable seeds through its regional field offices. It has also activated its Quick Response Fund for rehabilitation and is offering loans of up to P25,000 at zero interest under the Survival and Recovery Loan Program.

The Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. will also provide indemnification to insured farmers.

The DA said its field offices are conducting validation and needs assessment, coordinating with national and local government agencies, and monitoring prices of agricultural goods in the affected areas.