Negros oriental: The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Negros Island Region (DSWD-NIR) has allocated PHP51.7 million in emergency cash assistance to small-scale sugarcane farmers in Negros Oriental who have been adversely affected by an infestation of the red-striped soft-scale insect (RSSI).

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD-NIR Regional Director Arwin Razo announced that the latest batch of aid recipients includes 350 farmers from Bayawan City and five from Siaton. Each farmer received PHP10,125 in emergency cash transfer (ECT) assistance on Thursday. This marks the third phase of the payout, following distributions to farmers in Mabinay, Bais City, and Zamboanguita last week, where the RSSI infestation had affected a larger number of farmers.

Razo provided further details, stating that earlier in the month, 4,757 additional farmers from Bais City, Canlaon City, Jimalalud, Mabinay, Pamplona, and Zamboanguita had also received similar financial aid. DSWD-NIR records indicate the distribution breakdown as follows: Bais City (839 beneficiaries), Canlaon City (867), Jimalalud (70), Mabinay (2,551), Pamplona (359), and Zamboanguita (71).

Local government units were responsible for identifying the beneficiaries by submitting the names of small sugarcane farmers in their areas who were affected by the RSSI infestation. Razo reported that, to date, 5,112 farmers in Negros Oriental have been assisted, and similar aid has been provided to farmers in Negros Occidental. He also noted that efforts are underway to consolidate the total number of beneficiaries in Negros Occidental.

The DSWD's ECT program is designed to offer direct and unconditional financial support to families impacted by disasters or emergencies. Razo has urged local government units to continue identifying and submitting the details of eligible residents affected by the RSSI infestation to ensure they receive the necessary emergency cash assistance.