Providing Timely Support to Agricultural Communities
LEYTE - The Department of Agriculture (DA) has distributed a total of ₱120 million in financial assistance to more than 50,000 farmers and fisherfolk across 35 local government units in Eastern Visayas through the Presidential Assistance to Farmers and Fisherfolk Program (PAFFP). Conducted from June 16 to July 14, the initiative provided each qualified beneficiary with PHP2,325 in direct cash assistance to help offset the effects of rising fuel prices and increasing production costs. The program is designed to support small-scale agricultural producers whose livelihoods have been affected by higher operating expenses. By extending financial assistance, the government aims to help ensure that farmers and fisherfolk can continue producing food despite economic challenges.
Helping Sustain Livelihoods and Food Production
The financial assistance is expected to ease the burden on farming and fishing communities by helping cover expenses such as fuel, agricultural inputs, and daily household needs. Beneficiaries shared that the support would allow them to continue their livelihood activities while providing additional resources for essential family expenses, including food and education. The Department of Agriculture noted that recipients were identified through the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) and other validated government databases to ensure that assistance reached eligible beneficiaries. The initiative highlights the government's continued commitment to supporting food producers who play a vital role in maintaining the country's food supply.
Strengthening Eastern Visayas' Agricultural Sector
Eastern Visayas remains one of the country's important producers of rice, coconut, fisheries, and other agricultural commodities, making continued support for farmers and fisherfolk essential to regional and national food security. Programs such as PAFFP help improve the resilience of agricultural communities by providing immediate relief during periods of rising production costs and economic uncertainty. Alongside financial assistance, the Department of Agriculture continues to implement programs that promote sustainable farming, improve productivity, and strengthen the long-term viability of the agriculture and fisheries sectors. Through these efforts, Eastern Visayas continues to build a more resilient agricultural industry capable of supporting rural livelihoods and contributing to the country's food security.
