Agri losses surge to P217.50M; price freeze up in calamity zones

Agricultural damage and losses from the combined effects of the southwest monsoon and Tropical Cyclone Crising surged to P217.50 million as of Wednesday morning, from P134.66 million reported a day earlier. 

In its latest report, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said the figure covers reported damage to rice, corn, cassava, high-value crops, fisheries, livestock and poultry, and agricultural infrastructure across Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, and Soccsksargen.

Around 14,772 farmers and fisherfolk were affected, with estimated production losses reaching 10,595 metric tons across 15,868 hectares of agricultural land. 

The DA noted the figures are still subject to validation, and further losses are expected as assessment continues.

To support recovery efforts, the DA said it has made P545.56 million worth of assistance available, including rice, corn, and vegetable seeds from regional field offices.

An initial 500 bags of rice stocks from the National Food Authority were also distributed to the Palawan local government.

Other forms of aid include the Quick Response Fund for rehabilitation, P400 million under the Survival and Recovery Loan Program with zero interest for affected farmers, and an initial P268 million for indemnification through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp.

“In line with this, a price ceiling on agricultural commodities is in effect in areas under a state of calamity, as mandated by Republic Act 7581 or ‘The Price Act,’” the DA said.

Heavy rains prompted several local government units to declare a state of calamity, including the cities of Manila, Malabon, and Quezon City in Metro Manila; Calumpit in Bulacan; the entire province of Cavite; Cainta in Rizal; and Cebu City in Central Visayas. Most declarations were made between 18 and 23 July.

The agency said it continues to conduct field validation, coordinate with disaster agencies, and monitor price movements in affected regions.