Photo courtesy of Leilanie Adriano/PNA
Mango farmers in Ilocos Norte received financial assistance as rising fuel prices disrupted the transport of their harvest to key markets such as Metro Manila.
Growers said output had increased this season, but higher fuel expenses reduced their earnings and affected pricing.
Ricardo Tolentino, head of a local growers’ group, said transport costs per kilo had significantly risen, cutting into profits despite improved production.
Ilocos Norte remains one of the country’s major sources of mangoes, supplying both domestic markets and export destinations.
To provide relief, the Department of Social Welfare and Development began distributing cash assistance to affected farmers, starting with an initial group of beneficiaries.
Each recipient received Php 10,000, with more farmers expected to be assisted in succeeding batches.
Producers said they had adjusted their distribution strategy by prioritizing larger fruits for shipment while selling smaller ones locally.
They added that although hauling support is available from the provincial government, it is not always suitable for perishable goods that require immediate transport.