APAYAO — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. distributed PHP10,000 in financial aid to each of 60 farmers and fisherfolk from the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) on Friday, as part of a broader assistance initiative to support those affected by the El Niño phenomenon.
According to Philippines News Agency, the assistance was given during a ceremonial turnover at the Bienvenido Verzola Jr. Memorial Sports Complex. The beneficiaries, representing 27,185 farmers and fishers from Apayao, Abra, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province, received the aid through the Presidential Assistance for Farmers, Fisherfolk, and their Families (PAFFF) program. Additionally, 2,500 beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development's Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita (AKAP) program in the region and the municipality of Pudtol will also receive the same amount, distributed by provincial governors.
President Marcos expressed his satisfaction with the visit, which had been postponed twice previously due to bad weather, stating his commitment to making up for the delays and recognizing the importance of supporting the agricultural community. The event also featured the distribution of PHP260 million in cash aid, PHP316 million in agricultural supplies and equipment, and support for various local industries including cacao, coffee, and weaving. Other benefits provided included emergency employment funds, educational scholarships, and livelihood kits.
Magno Herrera, a 65-year-old rice farmer from Luna, Apayao, and a beneficiary of the PAFFF, voiced his gratitude for the financial support, noting its significant impact on his ability to meet his family's needs.