The Department of Agriculture (DA) is actively considering the utilization of the PHP10-billion Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF) fund to offer crucial support to farmers and fishers grappling with the escalating cost of fuel. This strategic move aims to mitigate the financial strain on the agricultural sector, which is vital to the nation's economy and food security.
Direct Cash Assistance for Fuel Price Relief
In a press briefing held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa emphasized that the PAFF is traditionally designated to provide direct cash assistance to farmers and fishers who have been directly impacted by natural calamities. However, the current economic pressures, particularly the surge in fuel prices, have prompted the department to explore alternative applications for this substantial fund.
DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. further elaborated on this initiative in a WhatsApp message to the Philippine News Agency, stating, "We are working out to release presidential assistance for farmers and fishermen. We are now checking how this will be distributed." This indicates that the department is in the advanced stages of planning to ensure an efficient and effective disbursement process.
Budget Allocation and Timing Considerations
The PAFF is formally programmed within the DA's budget under the 2026 General Appropriation Act (GAA), with its release originally scheduled for the second to the third quarter of the year. Assistant Secretary de Mesa highlighted the significance of the fund, noting, "That's quite big, that's about PHP10 billion for calamity purposes, but since this can be considered as a calamity." This statement underscores the department's flexibility in redefining 'calamity' to include economic hardships like rising fuel costs.
Moreover, de Mesa pointed out that an earlier release of the PAFF could be instrumental in addressing potential impacts on the agriculture sector, especially if the geopolitical tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran intensify. "We are already coordinating with the operations group on how this can be tapped if the problem in the Middle East continues to persist," he explained, highlighting the proactive measures being taken to safeguard farmers against external economic shocks.
Eligibility and Distribution Mechanisms
Once the plan receives approval, the PHP10-billion budget will be deployed to support eligible farmers and fishers across the nation. The government has historically utilized the PAFF to provide direct cash assistance to those affected by natural disasters, with beneficiaries typically receiving amounts ranging from PHP5,000 to PHP15,000. This established framework will likely serve as a model for the new initiative, ensuring that assistance reaches those most in need.
The DA's efforts to tap into the PAFF fund reflect a broader commitment to enhancing the resilience of the agricultural community. By addressing immediate challenges such as fuel costs, the department aims to stabilize production and maintain the sector's contribution to the national economy. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to protect farmers and fishers from both environmental and economic adversities.
As the situation evolves, the DA will continue to coordinate with relevant groups to finalize distribution plans and ensure that the assistance is delivered promptly and effectively. The move underscores the importance of adaptive policy-making in responding to dynamic global and local economic conditions.
