Financial aid for farmers and fishermen affected by the storm approaches PHP 1.2 billion
### Current Status and Details of Government Aid for Farmers and Fishers Affected by Severe Tropical Storm Crising
In the aftermath of Severe Tropical Storm Crising, also known as Wipha, the Philippine government has mobilized various aid programs to support the recovery of farmers and fishers. The storm, which intensified the southwest monsoon, caused significant damage across several regions, particularly in the agricultural sector.
#### Agricultural Aid
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has allocated close to PHP1.2 billion in aid for farmers and fishers affected by the storm. This assistance includes:
1. **Seeds and Materials**: The DA has provided PHP545.56 million worth of rice, corn, and vegetable seeds to farmers in various regions, including Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, and Soccsksargen.
2. **Survival and Recovery Loans**: The Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC) has allocated PHP400 million under their Survival and Recovery (SURE) loan program. This program offers up to PHP25,000 per borrower, payable over three years.
3. **Crop Insurance Indemnities**: The Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC) has allocated PHP268 million to provide indemnities to 45,980 insured farmers, starting next week.
#### Other Sectors Affected
The storm also caused damage in other sectors, including fisheries and livestock. Approximately PHP44,950 worth of damage was reported in the fisheries sector, affecting 10 fishers and resources such as tilapia and milkfish fingerlings, motorized boats, and fishpond dikes. In the livestock and poultry sector, at least 965 heads were affected, amounting to PHP5.33 million.
#### Ongoing Efforts
The government continues to monitor the situation and preposition relief goods in anticipation of additional weather disturbances. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command are working closely to ensure efficient deployment of critical resources.
The Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC) will be releasing indemnities to insured farmers affected by STS Crising starting next week. The DA continues to distribute aid, with the rice sector suffering the highest damage, amounting to about 6,703 MT in losses worth PHP212.60 million.
[1] Rappler. (2023). US military to help in relief operations for Severe Tropical Storm Crising. [online] Available at: https://www.rappler.com/nation/680794-us-military-help-relief-operations-severe-tropical-storm-crising
[2] Philippine Information Agency. (2023). DA allocates PHP1.2 billion in aid for farmers, fishers affected by Severe Tropical Storm Crising. [online] Available at: https://www.pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1102807
[3] Philippine Information Agency. (2023). DHSUD provides emergency shelter assistance to families affected by Severe Tropical Storm Crising. [online] Available at: https://www.pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1102806
- The Philippine government's efforts extend beyond agriculture, as the culture sector in Manila is seeking financial assistance to preserve and reconstruct museums and historical sites damaged by Severe Tropical Storm Crising.
- In response to the environmental impact of the storm, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has initiated a study to evaluate the long-term effects on the ecosystem, particularly in coastal areas, and propose solutions for sustainable recovery.
- As the storm disrupted weather patterns, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has launched a weather forecasting system upgrade to ensure more accurate predictions and early warnings for future weather disturbances.
