DSWD distributes over half-billion pesos to Negros sugar farmers

BACOLOD CITY — The Department of Social Welfare and Development has completed distribution of P553.89 million in financial assistance to 53,829 sugarcane farmers and farm workers affected by red-striped soft scale insect infestation across Negros Island, according to the agency's regional office.

The assistance was deployed as the agricultural community in the major sugar-producing region grapples with crop damage caused by the pest outbreak. DSWD Regional Director Arwin Razo confirmed the disbursement figures as of October 16, underscoring the scale of support extended to the affected farming population.

The financial package represents a coordinated government response to cushion the economic impact on farming families whose livelihoods depend on sugarcane production. The relief program targets both land-owning farmers and workers employed across sugarcane plantations in the region.

Negros Island, a principal sugarcane producing area in the Philippines, has faced mounting pressure from agricultural challenges. The targeted assistance aims to provide immediate relief while farming communities work toward recovery and pest management initiatives.