The Department of Agriculture (DA) is mobilizing over P1 billion in assistance for farmers and fisherfolk affected by the combined impact of the Southwest Monsoon and tropical cyclones Crising, Dante, and Emong.

The latest data from DA regional field offices as of Thursday morning showed that damage and losses ballooned to P454.12 million, affecting 20,959 farmers and fisherfolk. 

The weather disturbances damaged 20,413 hectares of agricultural land, resulting in an estimated 13,376 metric tons of lost production. Impacted commodities include rice, corn, cassava, high-value crops, fisheries, livestock, poultry, and agricultural infrastructure.

The DA noted that these figures are still subject to validation as further assessments are underway.

“Further damage and losses are expected in affected regions as assessment and validation is ongoing,” the agency said in a statement.

To aid recovery, the DA is distributing P596.52 million worth of rice, corn, and vegetable seeds sourced from its regional offices in 10 affected regions. The National Food Authority has also issued 2,100 bags of rice to local governments in Palawan and Albay for relief distribution.

Financial assistance includes a P400 million allocation under the Agricultural Credit Policy Council’s Survival and Recovery Loan Program, which offers up to P25,000 in zero-interest loans payable over three years.

An initial P268 million has also been earmarked to indemnify 45,980 insured farmers through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp.

Meanwhile, DA regional offices continue to conduct field validation and coordinate with national and local agencies to assess needs, clear road obstructions affecting the food supply chain, and monitor flooding risks. 

The DA is also closely watching commodity prices and movement in affected areas. A price ceiling on agricultural products remains in effect in provinces under a state of calamity, as mandated by the Price Act.