President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday distributed PhP30 million in financial assistance to thousands of farmers and fishermen affected by the El Niño phenomenon in the provinces of Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte and Davao Oriental.
The President handed over PhP10 million each to Davao del Norte Acting Governor De Carlo Uy, Davao de Oro Gov. Dorothy Gonzaga, and Davao Oriental Gov. Niño Sotero Uy Jr.
In his speech in Tagum City, President Marcos assured farmers and fisherfolk that his administration is determined to continue what it has started. He ensured that they will benefit from government programs and projects.
“Tunay nga pong malaki na ang pinagbago ng Tagum mula noong huli kong pagbisita dito noong panahon ng kampanya. Naging memorable po sa akin ang Unity Caravan na iyon sapagkat napakainit po ang binigay ninyong salubong para sa akin,” President Marcos said.
“Kasing-init at kasing-sigasig ng ating kasalukuyang administrasyon sa pagsisikap na ipagpatuloy ang nasimulan at tiyaking makikinabang ang mga mamamayan sa ating mga programa at proyekto,” he added.
Recognizing the PhP50 million loss incurred by over 1,000 El Niño affected families from 16 barangays in Davao Region, the chief executive vowed for continuous support to farmers, fisherfolk, and families in the region.
“Ayon sa pinakahuling datos na aming nakita, mahigit isang libong pamilya sa labing anim na barangay sa Davao Region ang lubhang naapektuhan ng El Niño at ang tagtuyot na dala ng El Nino. Limampung milyong pisong halaga ng pagkalugi ang naranasan ng ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda,” the President said.
“Kaya po ay hindi po namin kayo pababayaan. Kayo po ang sandigan ng ating bayan sa pag-unlad kung kaya’t hindi kami titigil sa pag-agapay sa inyong lahat,” he added.
Among the distributed assistance were the PhP10 million financial aid; machineries including units of rice combine harvesters, floating tillers, walk behind transplanters, and 4-wheel tractors; and rice from Speaker Martin Romualdez.
President Marcos visited Davao region on Thursday to lead the distribution of various assistance to El Niño affected families and to reaffirm the commitment of the national government to collaborate with the LGUs in preparation for the looming La Niña phenomenon. *PND*
