P46.8 Million in Aid Delivered to Butuan Farmers and Fishers Affected by El Niño

BUTUAN CITY – The Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families (PAFFF) program has begun a three-day distribution of PHP46.8 million in financial aid to 4,684 farmers and fishers in Butuan City, whose livelihoods were impacted by the recent El Niño-induced dry spell.

According to Philippines News Agency, each beneficiary is receiving PHP10,000 to mitigate the effects of the drought on their agricultural and fishing activities. The aid distribution, facilitated by the Butuan City government and the Department of Agriculture in the Caraga Region (DA-13), commenced on Tuesday. This initiative follows the allocation of PAFFF funds by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who personally handed over the funds to Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada during a visit in June.

Among the recipients, Maricris Mundia Holzhauer, a local vegetable farmer, expressed her gratitude for the government’s support. She highlighted that the financial assistance is crucial for the recovery and future productivity of her farm, especially post-drought. The PAFFF program is designed to support those directly affected by environmental challenges like El Niño, providing timely financial aid to ensure the sustainability of their livelihoods.

This distribution in Butuan is part of a broader effort by the government to aid various regions affected by similar conditions. During his June visit, President Marcos also allocated substantial PAFFF funds to several other areas in the region, including Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte, and the Dinagat Islands, reflecting a comprehensive approach to supporting agricultural communities across the Caraga Region.