The eruption of Mt. Kanlaon has inflicted over PHP1 million in damage to the agricultural sector, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA). The DA reported on Tuesday that the total damage stands at PHP1.39 million, impacting 40 farmers primarily in rice cultivation. DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa highlighted that the majority of the losses were in rice, with damages amounting to PHP620,280. Other affected crops include high-value crops and bananas, with losses of PHP420,400, and corn, with damages of PHP349,320.
The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) reported an initial loss in sugarcane production ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 metric tons, though the exact value is still being assessed. Despite these losses, the SRA anticipates a harvest of approximately 1.78 million metric tons of sugarcane.
De Mesa reassured the public that the impact of the volcanic eruption on agriculture would not lead to significant increases in retail prices of major commodities. He described the effects as ‘very, very minimal’ and highly localized to the affected area.
In response to the disaster, initial aid has been provided to the affected farmers. The DA has already distributed nearly PHP100,000 worth of drugs and biologics to livestock farmers in the province. Additional support measures include the provision of rice and corn seeds, further drugs and biologics, a zero-interest loan of PHP25,000 repayable over three years under the Agricultural Credit Policy Council’s Survival and Recovery loan program, an indemnification fund for insured farmers through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation, and the use of a quick response fund.