A total of P12 million is expected to be distributed to farmers in Capiz as disaster aid in response to Tropical Depression “Agaton,” which affected the province back in January. According to a Philippine Information Agency release, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist head Sylvia dela Cruz admitted there were delays in the distribution process.

Following a meeting last week between the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Provincial Peace and Order Council, and Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council, it was revealed limited funding and personnel contributed to the delays.

Dela Cruz, however, noted over P13 million has already been distributed to local farmers.

Each beneficiary is expected to receive P2,175.

Following Tropical Depression “Agaton,” 159 of the province’s 473 barangays reported flooding.

In addition, last January, the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) for Region VI revealed P76 million had been allotted for local farmers.

According to PCIC Regional Manager Eva Ulie Laud, 11,054 hectares of land were damaged by storms “Urduja,” “Vinta,” and “Agaton,” affecting 12,600 farmers./WDJ