The Bacolod City Government has taken a significant step to support its agricultural sector by releasing a substantial financial aid package for those impacted by a recent severe weather event.
P3.4 Million Aid Package Approved
The city has allocated a total of P3.4 million from its local funds to assist fisherfolk and farmers whose livelihoods were damaged by Typhoon Tino. This initiative falls under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) and is designed to help recipients recover and rebuild.
City Agriculture head, Maricar Quirio, confirmed the details of the assistance program. The funds have been earmarked specifically for those in the primary sectors of fishing and farming, which are vital to the local economy and were heavily affected by the typhoon's passage.
Beneficiaries and Distribution Details
Officials have already identified at least 340 individuals across multiple barangays who will receive the aid. The breakdown shows that 320 are fisherfolk, while 20 are farmers.
The beneficiaries come from the following areas:
- Barangays 1, 2, 12, 13, 14
- Banago
- Pahanocoy
- Punta Taytay
- Singcang-Airport
- Tangub
- Villamonte
Each qualified beneficiary is set to receive P10,000 in financial assistance. The Department of Social Service and Development (DSSD) has been tasked with overseeing the distribution of the funds to ensure they reach the intended recipients.
Ongoing Assessments and Future Support
In addition to the direct cash aid, a separate assessment is underway. The Department of Agriculture has been directed to evaluate the damage sustained by fishing boats, which is crucial for understanding the full scope of losses and planning further rehabilitation.
Meanwhile, the DSSD is awaiting approval for additional support. The agency has requested extra funds from the Department of Social Welfare and Development for the Negros Island Region to finance an Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) program. This is intended to help families affected by Typhoon Tino who were not included in the initial rounds of financial payouts.
This coordinated response by the Bacolod City Government highlights a focused effort to stabilize the local agriculture and fisheries industries following a natural disaster, providing immediate relief while laying groundwork for continued recovery support.
