Visayas, Bicol floods agriculture damage hits P202.89 million

MANILA, Philippines — Damage to agriculture due to massive flooding following heavy rainfall in Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas and Bicol last week has reached P202.89 million.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said the record rainfall was caused by the shear line and trough of a low-pressure area.

In its latest report, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said 8,322 farmers were affected, with total production loss of 7,521 metric tons. At least 8,446 hectares of agricultural land were affected.

“Affected commodities include rice, corn, high-value crops and livestock. Damage was also incurred in irrigation facility,” the DA said, adding that the figures are subject to validation.

Losses to rice production reached P189.8 million followed by high-value crops, P8.44 million; livestock and poultry, P2.18 million; corn, P2.15 million; irrigation facilities, P200,000; and cassava, P128,600.

The DA gave assurance that regional field offices in coordination with concerned local government units continue to monitor the situation in the areas affected by the shear line.

At least P29.30 million worth of rice, corn and assorted vegetable seeds were distributed to affected farmers.

Poultry raisers received native chicken worth P211,500.

The DA said P50 million is allotted under the Survival and Recovery Loan Program of the Agricultural Credit Policy Council. Affected farmers can avail themselves of a loan of P25,000 payable in three years with zero interest.

The Quick Response Fund is being readied for the rehabilitation of affected areas, the DA said.