MANILA, Philippines — Up to 86,066 farmers in 10 regions of the country whose livelihoods were heavily damaged by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (Trami) are set to receive at least P666.7 million in insurance proceeds, the Department of Agriculture has announced.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said this amount represents the indicated indemnity payments based on initial assessments made by the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC) on the damage caused by Kristine.

The PCIC, a government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC) that functions as the implementing agency of the government’s agricultural insurance program, provides insurance protection to farmers against losses arising from natural calamities, plant diseases, and pest infestations.

PCIC President Jovy Bernabe said the rapid assessment of PCIC-insured farms affected by Kristine during its onslaught from October 22 to 25 revealed that more than half of the affected farmers were from Central Luzon, the Bicol Region, and Mimaropa (Region 4B).

The damage primarily affected rice, high-value crops, and fisheries, he added.

The PCIC official said expected insurance payments were estimated at P413.6 million for rice, P167.9 million for high-value crops, and P27.7 million for fisheries.

“We have set aside an initial amount of P667 million for insurance payments to around 86,066 farmers,” Bernabe assured.

Laurel urged the PCIC to expedite the processing of insurance claims and to provide all possible assistance to help farmers quickly recover from the disaster.

The DA chief emphasized, “The pace of recovery for agriculture after a disaster like this will be determined by how quickly the government can provide inputs and financial assistance to farmers and fisherfolk.”

“That is why I have ordered all agencies of the Department of Agriculture, including attached corporations such as the NFA (National Food Authority) and PCIC, to conduct quick needs assessments so that help can be provided immediately,” he added.

📷 Cabuyao Agriculture Office