Tropical cyclone “Tino” has severely disrupted agriculture in six regions, causing an estimated P159.14 million in losses and affecting 5,982 farmers, the Department of Agriculture (DA) reported over the weekend. 

The storm destroyed crops, livestock, and agricultural infrastructure, wiping out 6,578 metric tons of produce across 3,547 hectares of farmland.

The damage threatens local food supply and farmers’ livelihoods, with losses reported in rice, corn, high-value crops, cassava, poultry, and livestock.

Flooding in some areas has delayed damage validation, particularly in Cebu, where assessments are still pending.

Farm inputs readied

To support recovery, the DA is mobilizing P216.39 million in farm inputs, P1.12 million in animal feeds, and nearly P842,000 in fish fingerlings, along with 2.6 million bags of rice for relief distribution. 

The agency has also activated its Quick Response Fund and allocated P22 million under the Survival and Recovery (SURE) Loan Program, offering zero-interest loans of up to P25,000 per farmer. 

Insured farmers will receive compensation through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp., with an initial P142.31 million set aside for indemnification.

While aiding Tino-hit areas, the DA is simultaneously preparing for super typhoon “Uwan.” 

The agency has prepositioned P379.31 million in farm inputs, P1.24 million in animal feeds, and nearly P772,000 in fish fingerlings for farmers and fisherfolk in Uwan’s projected path.

The National Food Authority has set aside 2.57 million bags of rice for relief distribution. Regional offices have positioned seeds, livestock drugs, and fish stocks, while coordinating with local government units and monitoring agricultural prices to mitigate the storm’s impact.