KIDAPAWAN: The Department of Agriculture in the Soccsksargen Region (DA-12) announced the completion of a substantial aid distribution effort for rice farmers in North Cotabato.
According to Philippines News Agency, the payouts, part of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund-Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RCEF-RFFA) program, began in March and concluded this past Friday. A total of 37,552 farmers received PHP5,000 each, amounting to over PHP187.7 million in aid. The program was designed to offset the rising costs of production and to support farmers particularly affected by the current El Niño spell, with the aim of sustaining agricultural productivity and providing financial relief during challenging times.