Batac city: The Ilocos Norte provincial government is taking significant steps to support local farmers by expanding its fuel subsidy and introducing free hauling services. This initiative aims to help farmers transport their products to the newly opened trading center located in Barangay Bil-loca, Batac City, as confirmed by Gov. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos during a recent press conference.

According to Philippines News Agency, the announcement was made following the successful transport of 1.8 tons of red onions and 1 ton of white onions from Pasuquin onion growers to the new trading center. Governor Araneta-Marcos emphasized that this initiative is designed to ease the burden of rising fuel costs on farmers, thereby sustaining agricultural activities, livelihoods, and the local economy. She also urged patience from the community during these economically challenging times.

Prior to the current situation in the Middle East, the Ilocos Norte Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Center had already been assisting farmers and fisherfolk with various agricultural inputs, such as machinery and product marketing. The free hauling service is available to all registered farmers under the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture, with priority given to those with standing crops to ensure sufficient irrigation and support through to harvest.

The expanded fuel subsidy assistance program forms part of the national government's broader fuel assistance initiative, which is set to be implemented in the province shortly. Farmers interested in availing of the free hauling services are encouraged to visit the Provincial Agriculture Office in Batac City.

Wilfredo Valdez, a farmer-leader from Pasuquin town, expressed gratitude for the provincial government's support, stating, "We are glad and thankful for all the assistance given to us. This means a lot to us farmers."