Typhoon Tino to impact corn supply, not rice, says DA chief

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stated that Typhoon Tino will not significantly impact the country's rice supply, but corn production might face substantial losses.

Laurel explained that rice harvesting is nearly finished in major provinces, and the areas hit by the typhoon are not primary rice-producing regions.

However, approximately 33,000 hectares of cornfields have been affected, potentially leading to significant losses in corn production.

The DA has directed regional offices to conduct rapid damage assessments and prepare for potential future typhoons.

The Department of Agriculture plans to provide P255 million in farm inputs, including seeds, fingerlings, and biologics, to aid affected farmers and fisherfolk.

Assistance for repairing fishing gear and boats, along with fuel aid, may also be extended to affected fisherfolk.

The Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC) has been instructed to speed up the processing of claims for those impacted by the typhoon.