Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. announced that the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) has prepared insurance payouts for farmers affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine totaling P666.7 million.
According to PCIC president JB Jovy Bernabe, an initial assessment has determined that 86,066 farmers across ten regions sustained substantial losses, primarily in Central Luzon, the Bicol Region, and Mimaropa (Region 4B). The evaluations, conducted from 22 to 25 October, showed that rice, high-value crops, and fisheries were the hardest hit.
The insurance payouts include P413.6 million for rice, P167.9 million for high-value crops, and P27.7 million for fisheries. “We have set aside an initial amount of P667 million for insurance payments for around 86,066 farmers,” Bernabe said.
In response to the threat of Super Typhoon Leon, which is expected to bring gale-force winds and storm surges, Secretary Tiu Laurel urged the PCIC to expedite the processing of claims and enhance support for recovery efforts.
“The pace of recovery for agriculture after a disaster like this will be determined by how quickly the government can provide inputs and financial assistance to farmers and fisherfolk,” Tiu Laurel said. He has directed all agencies under the Department of Agriculture, including the National Food Authority and PCIC, to conduct rapid need assessments to ensure timely assistance.
