The Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) on Thursday sought clarity on the delayed distribution of the Department of Agriculture’s fertilizer subsidies to farmers still recovering from recent typhoons.
SINAG chairman Rosendo So raised concerns about possible “ghost deliveries” after farmers from several regions reported not receiving the support, which was scheduled for release in June to coincide with the planting season.
At a Senate agriculture committee hearing, So revealed that fertilizer deliveries were delayed in Region 1 (Ilocos), Region 2 (Cagayan Valley), and MIMAROPA. He noted that while some areas received subsidies, others have not, even as August draws to a close.
So stressed that fertilizer contracts had been secured in May and that distribution should have proceeded without issue. He also pointed out that last year’s timely subsidy release coincided with competitive palay prices, unlike this year when prices are down and support has yet to reach many farmers.
Senator Raffy Tulfo backed calls for immediate action, urging the government to provide timely aid such as fertilizers, seedlings, equipment, and storage facilities. Governors and local officials from La Union and Pangasinan also appealed to SINAG for help in expediting the release, citing high fertilizer costs and the urgent need to sustain farm production.
