World · Philippines Bureau
Negros sugar farmers receive P410M relief for pest damage
Nearly 40,000 sugarcane farmers in Negros Island have been granted emergency cash assistance to recover from losses inflicted by red-striped soft scale insect infestations. The Department of Social Welfare and Development distributed P410.28 million in aid to affected agricultural workers.
LSN Philippines ·
BACOLOD CITY — Approximately 39,847 sugarcane farmers across Negros Island have received P410.28 million in emergency cash transfers from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), authorities announced Sunday. The financial relief aims to cushion the economic impact of crop damage caused by the red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI), which has devastated sugarcane plantations throughout the region.
Regional Director Arwin Razo confirmed the distribution of funds, which represents a major intervention to support farmers facing substantial production losses. The RSSI infestation has emerged as a significant agricultural threat, prompting government action to mitigate the financial hardship experienced by the farming community.
The cash assistance program reflects ongoing efforts by the DSWD to provide immediate relief to agricultural workers affected by pest-related disasters. Officials indicated that aid distribution would continue, with the agency working to ensure eligible farmers receive their allocations in a timely manner.
Negros Island remains one of the Philippines' largest sugar-producing regions, making the control of agricultural pests critical to maintaining farmer livelihoods and economic stability in the area. The emergency transfers represent the government's commitment to supporting vulnerable farming populations during agricultural emergencies.