DAVAO CITY, Philippines – The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office XI (DA-11) has begun distributing more than ₱27 million in financial assistance and agricultural inputs to thousands of farmers in Davao Occidental, providing much-needed relief following the economic impact of the Middle East crisis and the recent magnitude 7.8 earthquake.

The assistance is being distributed under the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk Program (PAFFP) and is expected to benefit 11,644 validated rice and corn farmers across the province. Distribution activities started on July 22 and will continue until July 29.

According to Joedel Leliza, DA-11 Disaster Risk Reduction and Management focal person, the payout began in Malita on July 22–23 before moving to Sta. Maria on July 24.

Each qualified farmer will receive ₱2,325 in financial assistance to help cushion the effects of rising fuel, fertilizer, and commodity prices brought about by the continuing tensions in the Middle East.

Malita has the highest number of beneficiaries with 5,790 farmers, followed by Don Marcelino (2,427), Jose Abad Santos (1,932), Sta. Maria (1,489), and Sarangani (6).

The distribution schedule continues in Don Marcelino on July 25–26, Jose Abad Santos on July 27–28, and Sarangani on July 27.

Immediate Support for Earthquake-Affected Farmers

Beyond the financial aid, the DA has also initiated emergency agricultural interventions for farming communities affected by the recent powerful earthquake that struck Davao Occidental.

On July 22, DA-11 delivered 20 boxes of 8-in-1 vegetable seed packs to help farming families restart food production, restore livelihoods, and strengthen household food security during the recovery period.

"Following a disaster, many farmers lose not only their crops but also their means of producing food and earning income. These vegetable seeds are easy to plant, have a relatively short growing period, and can provide an early harvest," Leliza explained.

The Department of Agriculture also announced that additional assistance will soon be distributed, including corn seeds, 10 kilograms of rice per farmer-beneficiary, and other agricultural inputs, based on the assessed needs of affected communities.

"This is only our initial intervention. As part of the DA's continuing disaster response and rehabilitation efforts, more agricultural assistance will be provided to help our farmers recover and rebuild," Leliza added.

Government Reaffirms Commitment to Farmers

The Department of Agriculture emphasized its commitment to delivering timely assistance to farming communities affected by natural disasters and economic challenges, ensuring that farmers can resume production as quickly as possible.

For many beneficiaries, the government assistance provides immediate relief.

Myrna Simbanan, a corn farmer from San Pedro, Sta. Maria, expressed her gratitude for the support, saying the financial aid will help her family purchase essential household needs while rebuilding their livelihood.

The assistance forms part of the national government's continuing efforts to strengthen agricultural resilience, protect rural livelihoods, and support food production in communities affected by disasters and economic disruptions.

Source: Philippine News Agency (PNA)
Adapted by: NPO News Team