DA assures aid for farmers, fishers

The Department of Agriculture has assured the provision of assistance to farmers and fisherfolk affected by the eruption of Taal Volcano.

DA Secretary William Dar emphasized that their priority is to ensure the safety of farmers, fisherfolk, their families, and other rural folk, including their farm animals.

He ordered DA Region 4-A director Arnel de Mesa and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 4-A director Sammy Malvas to "provide immediate updates on the risk areas, affected farmers, fisherfolk, and their families, and appropriate assistance."

Through the Agricultural Credit and Policy Council, Dar said DA is ready to provide an emergency loan assistance to affected farmers and fisherfolk.

"We can provide an emergency loan of ₱25,000, zero interest, payable in three years, under the survival and recovery loan program," he pointed out.

He noted that the affected farmers and fisherfolk have an option to borrow a higher amount under the micro and small agribusiness program.

ACPC Executive Director Jocelyn Badiola said funds are readily available and can be channeled through its existing conduits in Batangas.