6,400 farmers, fisherfolk to get United Nations typhoon aid

MANILA, Philippines — The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) will provide over 6,400 farmers and fishermen in Catanduanes and Northern Samar a total of P21.196 million in unconditional cash assistance to help them prepare against Typhoon Pepito.

The distribution of unconditional cash transfer is part of FAO’s anticipatory action (AA) mechanism in the country that helps communities build resilience to disasters by empowering people ahead of threats such as typhoons.

The areas included in the AA activation are the towns of Gigmoto, Pandan, Baras, Bato, San Miguel, San Andres and Virac in Catanduanes as well as the towns of Laoang and Mondragon in Northern Samar.

FAO said 2,813 farmers and fisherfolk in Catanduanes and 3,610 in Northern Samar would “immediately” receive P3,300 each through registered bank or e-wallet accounts as well as remittance centers.

Israel has also extended a helping hand to victims of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine and subsequent tropical cyclones that hit the Bicol Region.

Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss distributed relief packs to 250 affected families with Mayor Lilian Matamorosa of Lupi, Camarines Sur this week.

In Naga City, Fluss met with Mayor Nelson Legacion to extend his solidarity and sympathies to the residents affected by Kristine. – With Michael Punongbayan, Sheila Crisostomo, Artemio Dumlao