As of January 26, 2024, the prolonged drought or dry spell has resulted in significant losses amounting to P7,079,836 in the rice fields of three areas in the province of Negros Occidental. According to data from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA), 143 farmers on 117 hectares of land have been affected.
In Himamaylan City, eight barangays have been affected with a total value of P2.4 million. In Cauayan, two barangays have been impacted, incurring damages worth P4.1 million, while in Isabela, one barangay has suffered losses exceeding P560,000.
Provincial Agriculturist Dina Genzola stated that registered farmers affected by the drought can submit a notice of loss to qualify for crop insurance from the Provincial Government and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC). This response aims to alleviate the impact of the drought on the livelihoods of the farmers.
The dry spell has caused severe damage to crops, including rice, corn, and other agricultural products. Consequently, providing financial assistance to affected farmers is crucial to enable them to continue their livelihoods and recover from the incurred losses.
As a support to the farmers, it is expected that relevant authorities will promptly take action in distributing financial aid and other resources to maintain the strength of the agricultural sector in Negros Occidental. These measures are essential in promoting food security and overall development in the province.