TROPICAL storm “Paeng” has already damaged more than P200 million worth of agricultural products and farmlands when it hit the MIMAROPA, Bicol, Western Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Soccsksargen regions.

In its Bulletin No. 4 on STS “Paeng”, the Department of Agriculture (DA) reported that the total amount of damages and losses were recorded at P285.28 million.

The DA disclosed that there were 8,608 farmers and fishers affected, with the volume of production loss at 11,761 metric tons (MT) and 13,408 hectares of agricultural areas.

Affected commodities include rice, corn, high-value crops, and fisheries. Damage has also been incurred in agricultural facilities.

To stabilize prices and supply of agri-fishery commodities, the DA will mobilize Kadiwa centers in areas affected by “Paeng.”

Aside from this measure, the DA also will also be distributing rice, corn, assorted vegetable seeds; and drugs and biologics for livestock and poultry to affected farmers.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), on the other hand, will provide fingerlings and assistance to affected fisherfolk.

The DA added that the affected farmers and fishers can also avail of the Survival and Recovery (SURE) Loan Program from the Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC) with a loanable amount of up to P25,000 payable in three years at zero interest and Quick Response Fund (QRF) for the rehabilitation of affected areas.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Cory Martinez