The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Sunday reported initial damage caused by severe Tropical Storm (STS) Kristine reaching P3.11 billion, impacting over 74,500 farmers and fishers across 72,329 hectares. The data, compiled by the DA’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center, indicates that as of 9 a.m. Sunday, approximately 160,107 metric tons (MT) of agricultural goods were destroyed .
The bulk of the losses was on the rice sector, which sustained P2.87 billion in damaged crops equivalent to 152,440 MT across 69,976 hectares. Of this, 43,505 hectares, or 62.17 percent, were partially damaged while 26,471 hectares, or 37.83 percent, were completely destroyed. Additional damage of P121.08 million worth of high-value crops, P41.66 million in farm structures, and P26 million irrigation facilities were reported.
In response, the DA mobilized P541.02 million in agricultural assistance, including seeds and veterinary supplies, alongside a P1 billion quick-response fund aimed at rehabilitating farms. Furthermore, a P500 million survival and recovery loan program offers loans up to P25,000 at zero interest to affected farmers and fisherfolk.
DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced that preparatory steps have been taken to replant damaged farms once floodwaters recede, with necessary supplies already positioned in vulnerable areas. The agency also encouraged early harvesting and increased rice procurement to bolster food stocks ahead of the incoming Tropical Storm Leon.
In a separate development, the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) reported significant progress in restoring power to customers affected by Kristine, with service interruptions affecting approximately 6,000 customers, primarily in Cavite and Laguna. “We thank our customers for their patience and understanding. Our crews will continue working until service is fully restored,” said Joe Zaldarriaga, Meralco’s vice president for corporate communications.
As of 1 p.m. Saturday, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) confirmed the full restoration of all loads affected by STS Kristine, although its command center remains active to monitor ongoing weather disturbances.
