DA Eyes P10-B Presidential Aid Fund to Support Farmers and Fishers

AGRI-NEWS | NATIONAL Posted on 2026-03-11 11:01:12

The Department of Agriculture is considering tapping P10 billion from the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF) to help shield farmers and fishers from the impact of rising fuel costs and potential global disruptions.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the agency is currently working on the mechanism for distributing the assistance to eligible beneficiaries across the country.

“We are working out the release of presidential assistance for farmers and fishermen. We are now checking how the distribution will be carried out,” Tiu Laurel said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

The PAFF allocation is included in the DA’s budget under the General Appropriations Act of 2026, although the funds are originally scheduled for release between the second and third quarters of the year.

According to Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa, the department is exploring the possibility of releasing the funds earlier to address emerging challenges affecting the agriculture sector.

De Mesa said the funding, primarily intended for disaster-related assistance, may also be used if global developments—such as tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran—continue to escalate and affect fuel prices and agricultural operations.

The DA is coordinating with its operations units to determine how the fund could be mobilized should the situation in the Middle East persist and potentially disrupt local agriculture.

Once approved for release, the program will provide financial assistance to qualified farmers and fishers nationwide. In previous implementations, beneficiaries received direct cash support ranging from P5,000 to P15,000, particularly those affected by natural disasters.

Officials said the initiative aims to ensure that farmers and fishers receive timely support to sustain production and protect their livelihoods during periods of economic or environmental strain.

NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR

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