Typhoons cause P10-B damage to PH agri sector

The agricultural sector in the Philippines has sustained P10 billion in damages due to the combined impact of typhoons Quinta, Rolly, and Ulysses.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar stated that this P10-billion estimate does not include damage from flooding in Cagayan.

Approximately 150,000 farmers were affected, and 275,000 hectares of agricultural land were damaged.

Damage to high-value crops was estimated at P3.7 billion, while palay damage was pegged at P3 billion.

Despite the extensive damage, Secretary Dar noted that P32 billion worth of crops were saved due to the agency's early warning system, ensuring no rice shortages.

Affected farmers enrolled in the DA's registry will receive a P10,000 to P15,000 subsidy.

Loan programs are also available, offering P25,000 to affected farmers and fisherfolk, with P5,000 for emergencies and P20,000 for recovery.