PAFFP ASSISTANCE. Qualified rice and corn farmers in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, receive PHP2,325 each under the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk Program on Wednesday (May 20, 2026). Of the 1,725 beneficiaries, 700 received their aid on the first day, with distribution continuing on Thursday for the remaining 1,075 farmers. (Photo courtesy of Office of Rep. Dale Corvera)
BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Agriculture in Caraga Region (DA-13) facilitated the release of financial aid to farmers and fisherfolk in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, through the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk Program (PAFFP) on Wednesday.
Of the 1,725 qualified rice and corn farmers in the town based on the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA), 700 received their assistance on Wednesday. The release continues on Thursday for the remaining 1,075 qualified beneficiaries.
The PAFFP assistance, amounting to PHP2,325 for each beneficiary, will run until June 5 as scheduled by DA-13.
“With the rising fuel prices that affected farm implements such as fertilizers, this aid from the government is timely,” said Rolan Melgas, 46, a rice farmer. He added that the assistance will also help him with operational costs required in tending his farm.
Another rice farmer, Warlito Antao, said he is thankful to the government for implementing PAFFP amid the crisis affecting farmers in their town.
“I did not hesitate to register in RSBSA because I know that in the coming days, the registry system will help us seek support from the government, especially during this time of crisis,” Antao said.
He also thanked provincial officials in Agusan del Norte for facilitating the provision and release of the budget for PAFFP.
“The offices of Gov. Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante and Congressman Dale Corvera are instrumental in the realization of PAFFP. Their offices helped in the planning and preparations for the distribution of the aid,” Antao said.
Data earlier released by DA-13 indicated that a total of PHP203.8 million is allocated for PAFFP in Caraga Region, targeting around 70,428 rice and corn farmers and over 15,000 fisherfolk. (PNA)