President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced additional aid for farmers and fishermen, following six months of drought that devastated agriculture and fisheries across the country.
“We’ve just gone through a very difficult time with six months of no rain,” Mr. Marcos said.
“Many have struggled, and much has been damaged, leaving our farmers and fishermen in need of support,” he added.
The government led the distribution on Wednesday of P157.9 million in agricultural support to farmers and fisherfolk to boost farm productivity and fight hunger in Ilocos Norte.
President Marcos emphasized the importance of new technologies like solar-powered irrigation, which reduces dependence on fuel and is easier to maintain.
“These initiatives are part of our larger goal to support farmers and recognize their hard work for the country,” the President said.
He added that various government agencies, including the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), are working together to provide comprehensive aid to affected sectors.
He also encouraged farmers to explore value-added processing to increase profits and enhance livelihoods.
“Despite the challenges of El Niño, we can recover and improve our production,” he said.
