The Department of Agriculture (DA) 11 (Davao Region) has begun distributing more than PHP27 million worth of assistance under the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk Program (PAFFP) to 11,644 validated rice and corn farmers in Davao Occidental.
The rollout will continue until July 29.
In an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Friday, DA-11 Disaster Risk Reduction and Management focal person Joedel Leliza said the distribution began in Malita town on July 22-23 and moved to Sta. Maria on July 24.
Each farmer is to receive PHP2,325 to help ease the impact of rising fuel, fertilizer, and commodity prices following the Middle East crisis.
Malita accounts for the largest share with 5,790 beneficiaries, followed by Don Marcelino with 2,427, Jose Abad Santos with 1,932, Sta. Maria with 1,489, and Sarangani with six.
Aid distribution is scheduled in Don Marcelino on July 25-26, Jose Abad Santos on July 27-28, and Sarangani on July 27.
Apart from the PAFFP, Leliza said, the DA-11 has dispatched initial interventions for farmers affected by the recent 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Davao Occidental.
On July 22, the agency delivered 20 boxes of 8-in-1 vegetable seeds to help communities restore their livelihoods and strengthen household food security.
“Following a disaster, many farmers lose not only crops but also their means of producing food and earning income. These vegetable seeds are easy to plant, require a relatively short growing period, and can provide an early harvest,” Leliza said.
He added that more assistance will follow, including corn seeds and 10 kg. of rice per farmer-beneficiary.
“This is our initial intervention. As part of DA’s continuing disaster response and rehabilitation efforts, additional assistance – including corn seeds, rice, and other agricultural support – will be provided based on the assessed needs of our affected farming communities,” he said.
Leliza noted that the DA remains committed to supporting farmers through timely interventions as they recover and rebuild from the impact of the disaster.
Meanwhile, Myrna Simbanan, a corn farmer from San Pedro, Sta. Maria thanked the government for the assistance.
She said the aid is a big help to her family to buy their needs. (PNA)
