SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA: The Presidential Assistance for Farmers, Fisherfolk and Families (PAFFF), amounting to PHP50 million, is set to be released to approximately 5,000 farmers, fishers, and their families in the province of Antique this month. Dr. Gina Jordan, acting head of the Antique Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA), confirmed the news on Monday, highlighting the timely release of funds in response to the recent weather disturbances that impacted local farmers and fishers.

According to Philippines News Agency, each identified family of farmers and fishers will receive PHP10,000. This financial aid is expected to help farmers acquire necessary fertilizers and other materials for their farms, particularly as they embark on the second cropping season that began on September 15. The OPA report revealed that Antique suffered PHP15.92 million in agricultural losses during the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, affecting 593 farmers across various towns including Pandan, Tobias Fornier,
Culasi, and others.

Furthermore, the fisheries sector experienced damages amounting to PHP1.64 million, with 99 fishers affected. “We are still waiting for the final report from the Municipal Agriculture Offices regarding the damage to rice crops and fisheries due to Typhoon Leon,” added Dr. Jordan.

In a previous interview, Antique Vice Governor Edgar Denosta noted that the provincial board had authorized Governor Rhodora Cadiao to sign the Deed of Donation, which formally releases the PAFFF. Denosta explained that the fund was initially intended for those affected by the drought or El Niño phenomenon. However, the provincial board’s delayed quorum last August postponed the authorization process.