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P64.7-M aid released to sugar farmers victimized by widespread infestation in NIR

Philippines | Visayas

P64.7-M aid released to sugar farmers victimized by widespread infestation in NIR

By Glazyl Masculino

BACOLOD CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Negros Island Region (DSWD-NIR) has released P64.72 million in Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) assistance to 6,269 farmers and landowners whose sugarcane plantations were affected by the widespread infestation of the Red-Striped Soft Scale Insect (RSSI).Of the total amount, P10.56 million was distributed during the first wave, while P54.16 million was released in the second tranche to 5,246 beneficiaries.The payouts were conducted in several communities in Negros Occidental, including Talisay and San Carlos cities on July 29, Binalbagan and Moises Padilla on August 6, and Isabela on August 7.The assistance is intended to help farmers recover from severe crop losses caused by the RSSI infestation.According to DSWD-NIR records, the infestation has affected 38,717 families or 149,286 individuals in 410 barangays across Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental.Negros Occidental has 19 affected local government units (LGUs), while Negros Oriental has eight.The infestation has reportedly affected 78,352 hectares of sugarcane-producing communities across the region. Field assessments have confirmed damage to 22,792.25 hectares involving 15,135 farmers.Among the areas with substantial plantation damage are Kabankalan, Cadiz, Victorias, Sagay and Bago cities, as well as Ilog, Calatrava and Murcia in Negros Occidental. In Negros Oriental, affected areas include Mabinay, Canlaon City, Bayawan City and Bais City.The DSWD-NIR has also maintained P3 million in Quick Response Funds (QRF) and prepositioned 80,087 Family Food Packs in strategic locations across the region to support affected communities.

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