DA to extend assistance to farmers, fisherfolks affected by Crising, Habagat

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has directed its agencies to prepare and extend assistance to all farmers and fisherfolk impacted by the onslaught of Tropical Storm Crising and the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat. 

Initial reports showed the agricultural damage caused by Crising and the Habagat across Regions VI and IV-B reached around P53 million. Likewise, around 2,099 farmers tending to more than 2,400 hectares were affected. 

“We must act without delay—weather permitting—to ease the suffering of our farmers and fisherfolk,” said DA Undersecretary Roger Navarro. 

Crising and the Habagat wrought havoc over parts of the country, causing heavy rains and widespread flooding in several areas in the Philippines. Crising exited the country’s area of responsibility on Saturday, July 19. 

Data from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said three people were reported dead while another three were injured due to the effects of the Crising and the Habagat. 

A total of 370,289 individuals, or 120,008 families, were affected by Crising.

Meanwhile, the DA said floodwaters have submerged fields planted with rice, corn, and other high-value crops. Poultry and livestock operations have also suffered losses. Some National Food Authority (NFA) in Mindoro were also not spared from the flooding.

NFA Administrator Larry Lacson said agency started the release of rice stocks to local government units and national agencies as part of the ongoing disaster response. In Palawan alone, 500 sacks have already been distributed.

Jovy Bernabe, president of the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), said a apid assessment of the affected areas will be immediately undertaken to initiate the processing of insurance claims for covered farmers.

“The PCIC has instructed its personnel to extend full assistance to affected farmers and expedite the processing of their damage claims,” Bernabe said. — Sundy Locus/BM, GMA Integrated News