P1-billion quick response fund activated to ease impact of calamities on farmers

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) said it is set to activate its P1-billion quick response fund (QRF) targeted at farmers affected by disasters.

“The (DA) plays a pivotal role before, during, and after disaster operations because agricultural producers, who constitute the department’s primary stakeholders, are susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change and seasonal fluctuations,” it said.

In Memorandum Order No. 9, the DA said that the QRF will serve as a standby fund for the procurement of agricultural inputs, crops, livestock and poultry, and fisheries.

The funding will also be used to repair production, post-production, and small-scale irrigation facilities.

Farmers also receive cash assistance for culled live animals or for the provision of farming tools and supplies.

“To address the sector’s longer-term vulnerabilities and challenges, the department provides an opportunity to increase the capacity of farmers and fisherfolk to cope and reduce the risk of future disasters through its rehabilitation and recovery programs, projects, and activities,” the DA added.

The disbursement of inputs for crops, fisheries, livestock, and poultry will take place within six months, while infrastructure repairs will be completed within the QRF’s validity period.

“Requests for the rehabilitation of small-scale irrigation systems shall be coordinated with the Bureau of Soils and Water Management for technical assistance and validation,” it said. — Adrian H. Halili