Philippines agriculture ministry deploys P210.9M aid package for storm-hit farmers

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has made available P210.93 million in emergency assistance to support farmers and fisherfolk impacted by the enhanced southwest monsoon and three consecutive tropical cyclones that swept through the Philippines. The comprehensive aid package, detailed in DA Bulletin No. 10, targets communities facing significant agricultural losses from the adverse weather events. The assistance encompasses rice, corn, and vegetable seeds, along with other essential agricultural inputs needed for farm recovery and replanting efforts. The DA's Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Division coordinated the rapid deployment to ensure timely support for affected agricultural communities. Officials indicated the aid initiative aims to stabilize food production and support rural livelihoods across regions affected by Tropical Cyclones Luis, Maymay, and Neneng, along with the prolonged habagat conditions. The agency has prioritized distribution to areas where crop damage and livestock losses were most severe, with field teams working to reach remote farming communities in need of immediate assistance.