By CESAR JOLITO III

The aftermath of the recent torrential rains and widespread flooding in southern Negros Occidental has left the agricultural sector reeling, with damage estimates now exceeding P55 million, according to the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in the Negros Island Region.

The updated figures, as of Friday, July 25, highlighted the scale of devastation brought by relentless rainfall, which submerged farms and displaced hundreds of farmers across key agricultural towns in the south.

The rice sector emerged as the hardest hit, accounting for P37.4 million in losses.

A total of 1,963 rice farmers saw 1,622 hectares of paddies damaged — many of which were nearing harvest season when the flooding struck.

Corn farmers were not spared, suffering P13.8 million in losses across 202 hectares of fields, affecting 331 individuals.

Meanwhile, high-value crops — including vegetables and fruit-bearing plants — recorded P2.8 million in damage, impacting 65 farmers cultivating 21 hectares.

Livestock and poultry losses also contributed to the overall toll, pegged at P865,400, as several backyard farms were inundated by floodwaters.

Local government units and agricultural offices continue to conduct ground assessments in coordination with the Department of Agriculture and the Office of Civil Defense to finalize recovery and assistance plans.

Provincial officials have already raised concerns over the compounding impact of climate-related disasters on the farming sector, which remains a primary livelihood source in Negros Occidental.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson previously called on municipalities to reassess their disaster protocols, emphasizing the need for early warning systems and improved climate resilience among farming communities.

Relief and recovery assistance are expected to be rolled out in the coming days, with the provincial government urging national agencies to expedite aid for affected farmers./CJ, WDJ