ILOILO – The provincial government has appealed to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for more support beyond the initial P50 million provided under the Presidential Assistance to Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF) program, which covers only a fraction of those affected by the El Niño phenomenon in this province.
According to Provincial Administrator Dr. Raul Banias, the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAgrO) reports approximately 40,316 farmers and fisherfolk in the province have been impacted. However, the funds currently available will only ensure P10,000 of financial assistance to about 5,000 individuals.
“Yesterday, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. sent a formal request through Secretary Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr., the Special Assistant to the President, for additional assistance. Although not everyone might receive P10,000, we aim to extend some support to the remaining 35,000 affected,” Banias explained.
Damage from El Niño has amounted to P1.5 billion affecting agriculture, fisheries, and livestock in the province of Iloilo.
The provincial government is exploring other potential sources of aid in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Region 6.
It is as well considering approaching the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for possible assistance through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) and the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) programs.
“Although we can’t promise immediate relief, we are diligently seeking ways to assist the remaining 30,000 farmers and fisherfolks,” said Banias.
The President visited San Jose de Buenavista, Antique last week to lead a ceremonial turnover of P50 million checks to the provinces of Iloilo, Antique, Capiz, Aklan, and P28.410 million for Guimaras under the PAFF program.
Across the region, a total of 61,172 farmers and fisherfolks are slated to receive P10,000 in financial assistance.
In Iloilo, the distribution of these funds to the first 5,000 beneficiaries is expected to commence soon.
Priority is given to municipalities that have declared a state of calamity due to severe impacts from El Niño.
Each province has been given 30 days by the Office of the President to distribute the financial aid and is required to submit a liquidation report thereafter.
Provincial authorities expressed their gratitude towards the Office of the President for the initial P50 million, which significantly aids the local farming and fishing communities.
“We are indeed grateful for this kind consideration and we hope the President can also look into how we can further help other affected farmers and fisherfolks,” said Banias./PN
