By Sean Rafio
Senator Imee Marcos and the local government of Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo distributed assistance to more than 2,000 farmers negatively impacted by the El Niño phenomenon, as drought and dry conditions continue to affect the livelihood of millions nationwide.
During a program held at the Tamasak Arena on Friday, a total of P6 million in cash assistance was given to 2,000 beneficiaries who received P3,000 cash each.
“Kabalo kita nga kabudlay gid sang pangabuhi sa subong nga tyempo. Kamahal sang presyo sang bugas kag iban nga pagkaon,” Marcos said in her speech.
“Kaya nandito tayo ngayon para maghatag sang gamay nga bulig sa aton magsasaka. Magahatag kita sang P3,000 sa 2,000 ka beneficiaries,” she added.
Marcos worked with Iloilo 4th District Rep. Ferjenel Biron, Barotac Nuevo Mayor BP Biron, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-6) Region VI to oversee the smooth distribution of assistance.
Due to the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, Iloilo Province has suffered significant agricultural losses now amounting to P1.025 billion, according to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
Iloilo 4th District Rep. Ferjenel Biron thanked Senator Marcos for bringing the help to his constituents.
During the program, Rep. Biron revealed that Marcos said she will continue to support programs that aims to help the people of the Fourth District of Iloilo. This comprises the municipalities of Anilao, Banate, Barotac Nuevo, Dingle, Dueñas, Dumangas, San Enrique, and the city of Passi.
“Sa pagsturya naton kay Sen. Imee, nahibal-an naton nga bilog nga Pilipinas ang coverage sang bulig ni Sen. Imee pero wala niya kita gin paslaw,” the Congressman said.
“Indi lang ini ang bulig niya sa aton. Madamo siya sang mga plano nga ibulig sa aton nga banwa kag diya sa kabilogan sang Fourth District,” he added.
Data from the local government of Iloilo showed that the damage inflicted by the dry spell in the province has reached an alarming figure of P1.025 billion.
Rice cultivation suffered the largest loss with damages amounting to P653 million, followed by corn farming with P219 million, and high-value crops, which include various fruits and vegetables, incurring a total damage worth of P136 million.
