Nazal urges swift action, support for farmers
MAGSASAKA Party-list leader Robert Nazal has urged immediate action and comprehensive support in response to the significant agricultural damage caused by Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon (habagat).
Initial estimates indicate that the calamities have inflicted P156.79 million in agricultural losses, affecting multiple regions and thousands of farmers.
“The extensive damage to our agriculture sector, particularly in Mimaropa, Western and Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Soccsksargen, and the Caraga region, is a severe blow to our nation’s food security and the livelihoods of our farmers,” Nazal said.
“We must act swiftly and decisively to provide the necessary support to those affected,” he pointed out.
Agricultural damage includes the loss of 856 metric tons of rice worth P145.36 million, high-value crops amounting to P8.5 million, corn losses of P2.85 million, and livestock losses totaling P80,900.
To address this, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has planned the deployment of 72,174 bags of rice seeds, 39,546 bags of corn seeds, and 59,600 pouches and 1,966 kilograms of vegetable seeds.
Nazal emphasized the importance of these efforts, saying the timely distribution of seeds and other resources is crucial for our farmers to start the recovery process.
“I commend the DA for mobilizing their regional personnel for this urgent intervention,” he said.
In addition to seed distribution, farmers can avail of a P25,000 loan under the Survival and Recovery (SURE) Loan Program. This loan is interest-free and payable over three years, providing much-needed financial relief to those hardest hit.
“The SURE Loan Program offers a lifeline to our farmers, allowing them to rebuild without the burden of high-interest rates. We must ensure that this assistance reaches those in need promptly,” Nazal noted.
To further support recovery efforts, the Quick Response Fund and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. have been activated. These measures aim to provide immediate financial aid and insurance payouts to affected farmers, helping to stabilize their income and support recovery initiatives.
“I urge both the national and local governments to expedite the delivery of all forms of aid, from seeds and loans to financial assistance through the Quick Response Fund and crop insurance. It is imperative that we stand with our farmers during this challenging time,” Nazal stressed.
Nazal also called on lawmakers to prioritize legislation that strengthens the country’s disaster response and agricultural resilience.
“We need robust policies and programs that will not only help our farmers recover from this disaster but also equip them to withstand future challenges,” he urged.
As the nation works to recover from the devastating impacts of Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon, Nazal remains committed to advocating for the needs of affected communities and ensuring the resilience of the Philippine agriculture sector.
