(Photo courtesy of PNA)
DAVAO CITY — The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-11) urged farmers affected by El Niño to immediately report damage to their insured crops and coordinate with the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) to facilitate the processing of insurance claims.
DA-11 Regional Director Macario Gonzaga said farmers should promptly notify their respective Municipal Agriculture Offices (MAOs) and the PCIC to ensure timely assessment and validation of agricultural losses caused by prolonged dry spells.
In a video interview posted on the Agri Info Davao Facebook page over the weekend, Gonzaga emphasized that early reporting is essential to avoid delays in receiving insurance benefits.
“Farmers are advised to prepare the necessary documents, including insurance policies or proof of coverage, farm and crop details and evidence of damage,” Gonzaga said.
He reminded farmers to preserve their damaged crops until PCIC personnel have completed the necessary inspection and assessment.
Gonzaga cautioned against immediately clearing or disposing of affected crops, as doing so could complicate the validation process and delay insurance claims.
He also clarified that indemnity payments from the PCIC are separate from emergency financial assistance provided under other government programs.
According to Gonzaga, farmers should not assume that additional cash assistance is automatically available, as such benefits remain subject to official approval and applicable government guidelines.
To help agricultural producers minimize planting risks, DA-11 continues to promote the use of quality seeds, climate-appropriate rice and corn varieties, organic fertilizers, biofertilizers and soil conditioners.
The agency advised farmers to follow the recommendations of agricultural technicians when selecting crop varieties and farm inputs, particularly during periods of extreme weather.
Gonzaga also encouraged farmers to keep their insurance documents secure, avoid delays in reporting losses and maintain regular communication with their MAOs and the PCIC regarding the status of their claims.
Meanwhile, DA-11 is implementing a Php 729-million El Niño Action Plan aimed at protecting food security and agricultural livelihoods as crop losses from moisture stress and prolonged dry conditions continue to increase across the region.
Gonzaga said the plan focuses on three major priorities: sustaining agricultural production in areas less vulnerable to drought, saving crops already affected by dry conditions and preparing the agriculture sector for potentially worsening weather conditions.
“Our goal is not only to minimize damage but also to protect the livelihoods of our farmers and ensure a continuous food supply in the region,” Gonzaga said.
Of the total allocation, Php 678 million will be used to expand agricultural production in areas considered less vulnerable to drought.
Another Php 40 million has been earmarked for preparations and logistical requirements, while Php 9.9 million will support immediate interventions to salvage crops in affected communities.
The DA-11 said the measures are intended to reduce agricultural losses, maintain food production and help farmers sustain their livelihoods amid the continuing effects of El Niño.
