DA deploys P495-M aid as storm batters farmlands

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has mobilized nearly half a billion pesos in emergency support for farmers and fisherfolk reeling from the combined impact of tropical storm “Crising” and the Southwest Monsoon (habagat).

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. ordered immediate deployment of aid to six hard-hit regions — Central Luzon, Mimaropa, Central Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Soccsksargen and Caraga — through agency officials led by Officer-in-Charge Undersecretary for Operations Roger Navarro and Undersecretary Chris Morales, who oversees the National Rice Program.

“We want our farmers and fisherfolk to know that the government is fully committed to supporting them, especially during these challenging times,” Secretary Tiu Laurel said.

“Essential resources, including seeds and financial aid, are readily available to help our stakeholders recover swiftly.”

Agricultural inputs

The DA has earmarked P495.4 million worth of agricultural inputs such as rice, corn and vegetable seeds for immediate distribution.

Preliminary data from the DA’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office showed P134.7 million in crop and fisheries damage across 8,035 hectares of land, affecting 6,377 farmers and fisherfolk. Damages span rice, corn, cassava, high-value crops, livestock, poultry and aquaculture assets.

To fast-track recovery, the DA is set to tap its Quick Response Fund for rehabilitation efforts.

It also encourages storm-hit producers to apply for Survival and Recovery loans of up to P25,000, interest-free and payable over three years, under the Agricultural Credit Policy Council.

Indemnity payments

Meanwhile, the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation has been directed to expedite indemnity payments for those with valid crop and fishery insurance.

Secretary Tiu Laurel is expected to resume full duties on Thursday, 24 July, following a two-week medical leave.