Super Typhoon Julian causes over P481M in agri damage

Super Typhoon Julian, internationally known as Krathon, has caused an estimated P481.27 million in agricultural damage, impacting approximately 20,134 farmers across Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, and Central Luzon.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) reported that the losses amount to 19,151 metric tons of crops spanning 13,488 hectares of land.

Rice accounted for P348.42 million of the overall losses, with significant damage also recorded for corn (P35.75 million) and high-value crops (P3.96 million).

Irrigation facilities sustained P92.68 million in damages, and livestock and poultry losses were estimated at P472,550.

The DA has P164.27 million worth of agricultural inputs available for distribution, and affected farmers can access zero-interest loans through the SURE Loan Program.

Further damage and losses are expected, particularly to palay in Cagayan Valley, as field assessments continue.