The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Wednesday reported agricultural damage caused by severe tropical storm (STS) Kristine, ramping up to P3.76 billion, a 10.6 percent increase from last week’s initial assessment of only P3.4 billion.
As of 10 a.m. Wednesday, the damage translates to approximately 190,488 metric tons (MT) impacting 87,496 farmers and fishers across 81,606 hectares (ha) of farmland. The damage extends across various regions, including the Cordillera Administrative Region, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Soccsksargen, and Caraga.
Rice crops account for the bulk of the reported losses totaling P3.20 billion. Of this, 47,165 ha of riceland (62.06 percent) suffered partial damage while 28,833 ha (37.94 percent) were completely destroyed. Additional losses include P408.09 million worth of high-value crops (7,369 MT), P51.71 million of corn (2,501 MT), and P43.47 million of farm structures.
To assist affected farmers, the DA made available P541.02 million in agricultural inputs, including seeds and livestock medications. A P1 billion quick response fund is also in place for rehabilitation, alongside relief efforts involving rice distributions from the National Food Authority and mobile Kadiwa stores.
Furthermore, the Agricultural Credit Policy Council is offering a P500 million survival and recovery loan program, providing loans up to P25,000 with a three-year repayment period at zero interest, along with indemnification options from the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation.
