December 16, 2024

Aid delivered to livestock farmers affected by volcanic eruption in Philippines, says Department of Agriculture

The Philippines' Department of Agriculture (DA) on December 12 said it provided initial aid to livestock farmers affected by the ashfall from the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon.

In an interview, DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said livestock animals were reportedly affected in some areas in Negros Occidental.

"(They have distributed) close to ₱100,000 (US$1,702) worth of drugs and biologics (to treat and protect the affected animals. Like humans, they were also affected)," he said.

He said other assistance will follow for other affected sectors including sugarcane, rice, and vegetable crops, pending validation.

Possible aid includes the distribution of prepositioned planting materials and fertilisers, the utilisation of quick response funds (QRF), and the availability of credit assistance under the Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC).

- PNA