Combined agricultural losses from Tropical Cyclones “Tino” and “Uwan” have reached P3.72 billion, affecting 54,792 farmers and fisherfolk.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) reported on Friday that production losses total 19.14 million metric tons across 36,630 hectares, with further damage expected as assessments continue.
Of this total, “Uwan” alone caused P3.17 billion in damage, affecting 34,430 farmers across Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, Mimaropa, Bicol, and Eastern Visayas.
The storm hit rice, corn, cassava, high-value crops, livestock, poultry, as well as agricultural infrastructure, machinery, and equipment, resulting in 153,493 metric tons of production lost over 25,996 hectares. These figures are still subject to validation.
In response, the DA has mobilized multiple interventions to support affected communities. These include P715.26 million in farm inputs, P1.24 million in animal feeds, P771,620 in bangus and tilapia fingerlings, and 2.57 million bags of rice from the NFA for local distribution.
Financial assistance is also available through the Quick Response Fund and the SURE Loan Program, which offers up to P25,000 at zero interest over three years. Insured farmers can claim compensation through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp.
The DA, through its regional offices, is coordinating with local government units to distribute aid, monitor road networks, and oversee price conditions. In areas declared under a State of Calamity, price ceilings on agricultural commodities remain in effect under Republic Act 7581.