DAVAO CITY—Thousands of farmers and fishermen affected by the El Niño drought have received assistance from the local government of Davao.
The Davao City Social Services and Development Office said around 37,000 farmers and 927 fishermen were affected by the drought that hit the city early this year.
Maria Luisa T. Bermudo, head of the CSSDO, said the distribution of food assistance that included rice and canned goods started middle of November.
The drought devastated farms in Calinan, Tugbok, Marilog, Paquibato, and Toril.
The city government has distributed 981 sacks of rice in Tapak and 1,300 in Colosas, both in Paquibato.
The assistance was approved by the city government through a resolution declaring the affected areas under the state of calamity because of the drought.
Meanwhile, around 121 families and 27 individuals affected by the fire that hit Barangay Tomas Monteverde in Agdao on Sunday received assistance from the city government through the CSSDO.
The fire victims are currently at the barangay covered court. They were given food packs, sleeping mats, and medicines.
Bermuda said the local government is set to extend financial assistance to the victims this week.
Owners of houses destroyed by fire will receive P10,000, while those whose houses were damaged will receive P5,000. Renters and boarders will also receive cash assistance, CSSDO said.
Bermudo’s office will also provide stress debriefing sessions to the victims, especially the mothers and children.