The Department of Agriculture (DA) distributed P2.5 billion worth of assistance to farmers and fishermen in Cagayan and Isabela provinces Thursday.
The aid included essential farm inputs, livestock, machinery, post-harvest facilities, fishing equipment and financial assistance.
“We are providing in-kind support that will ensure the success of the dry season planting for calendar year 2024 and enhance the productivity and income of our farmers across multiple programs,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said.
He said the interventions would enhance farmers’ capacity to meet the increasing demand for rice through higher productivity and improved farm resilience.
The DA allocated P1.13 billion to Cagayan and P1.37 billion to Isabela from the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF).
Cagayan and Isabela farmers received hybrid rice, corn and peanut seeds, fertilizers, piglets and feeds. Fisherfolk received fingerlings, boats and fishing gear.
The DA also inaugurated a P114.5-million rice processing system in Naguilian, Isabela and awarded P65.7 million worth of agricultural machinery and infrastructure projects in Cagayan.
Farmers also received indemnity from the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation PCIC), fuel subsidies and financial aid through the RCEF.
Tiu Laurel inaugurated a Mega KADIWA ng Pangulo outlet in Ilagan City, providing a direct market linkage for farmers and consumers.
