Capitol, foundation sign pact for Yolanda victims

CEBU, Philippines- The Cebu provincial government and the Pagtambayayong-A Foundation for Mutual Aid, Inc. yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding to help farmers affected by supertyphoon Yolanda.

The project, entitled “Economic Recovery and Growth for Small Farmers in the Yolanda Affected Areas of North Cebu through Organic/Natural Agriculture,” aims to help 1,280 small farmers increase their income by at least P3,000 per month.

 It also targets to help 925 hog raisers, 178 meat processing farmers and 177 farmers who are into feed production in the towns of Medellin, Daanbantayan and the city of Bogo.

 The MOU states that there will be 20 community technicians serving the farmer-beneficiaries and that around 2,000 families will be provided access to commercial lending institutions like the Land Bank of the Philippines.

 The project covers Barangays Malingin, Anonang Sur and Dakit in Bogo City; Canhabagat, Antipolo, Kawit and Curva in Medellin; and Agujo, Bitoon, Paypay, Maya in Daanbantayan.

 For its part, the province will provide the communities basic services “in accordance with its available programs and budget.”

 The Pagtambayong will implement the project and coordinate with the Capitol on its progress.

 During the MOU’s signing, which was done at the Capitol Social Hall, the provincial government was represented by Gov. Hilario Davide III while Pagtambayayong president Salvador Loyola Jr. signed on behalf of the foundation.  (FREEMAN)