DSWD Releases Nearly P885 Million to Aid Negros Sugarcane Workers

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has released P884.78 million in financial relief to support sugarcane farmers and farm workers affected by pest infestations across Negros Island, marking a significant intervention by the agency as of early November.

The disaster assistance program targets communities impacted by red-striped soft-scale insect (RSSI) outbreaks, which have threatened livelihoods in the sugarcane-producing provinces. The relief distribution represents part of the government's broader response to agricultural emergencies affecting vulnerable farming populations in the region.

The DSWD's assistance aims to provide immediate support to farmers and laborers facing income losses due to crop damage caused by the pest infestation. The Negros-wide distribution effort demonstrates the government's commitment to addressing agricultural crises affecting rural communities dependent on sugarcane production.

Affected residents in Negros Occidental and other parts of the island have accessed the relief funds as part of the DSWD's disaster response mechanisms. The agency continues to monitor the situation and coordinate with local government units to ensure comprehensive coverage of those most impacted by the agricultural crisis.