DSWD aids over 12,000 Isabela farmers hit by dry spell
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has provided financial assistance to 12,506 farmers affected by the ongoing dry spell in Isabela.
According to DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao, the agency began distributing emergency cash transfers (ECT) on April 14 through its Field Office 2 in the Cagayan Valley. The assistance targets corn farmers who have lost income due to prolonged heat and lack of rainfall.
The aid initiative follows the directive of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to support the agriculture sector and help farmers cope with climate-related disruptions.
Each beneficiary received PHP10,125, with a total of PHP358 million allocated for the program’s implementation in the province.
From April 14 to 21, beneficiaries were distributed across several areas, including Cabagan, Sto. Tomas, Sta. Maria, Delfin Albano, San Pablo, Benito Soliven, Ilagan City, Aurora, and Gamu.
The ECT program is designed as an adaptive response, providing unconditional financial aid to disaster-affected families to support their recovery.
Beyond cash assistance, the DSWD is also set to roll out Project LAWA at BINHI in Isabela and nearby provinces. The initiative integrates agriculture and climate adaptation strategies to address food insecurity and poverty.
Under the program, beneficiaries will receive cash-for-work or training opportunities while learning climate-resilient farming techniques and other practices to mitigate the effects of drought in their communities.
NPO News Team - Philippine News Agency - PR
