More than a thousand farmers in Isabela have received financial relief after the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) Cagayan Valley released over P7.27 million in indemnity payments to help them recover from crop losses caused by severe flooding last year.

During a simultaneous on-site check distribution held in Echague town and Santiago City, a total of 1,046 farmers received P7,271,169.94 as compensation for crops damaged or destroyed by prolonged flooding.

Regional Manager Mario G. Lumibao stated that the timely release of indemnity payments aims to enable affected farmers to immediately resume their farming activities and prepare for the next planting season, despite the ongoing risks posed by climate-related disasters.

Lumibao also encouraged farmers to maintain and expand their insurance coverage, not only for crops, but also for livestock, non-crop agricultural assets, agricultural credit, and life term insurance. 

He noted that with the increased budget allocation for PCIC, farmers can now access broader benefits and stronger risk protection.

He further urged farmers across the Cagayan Valley to maximize PCIC’s insurance programs to ensure the sustainability and resilience of their livelihoods amid climate variability and other agricultural risks.

Meanwhile, Echague Municipal Agriculturist Engr. Anthony Jordan Justo expressed his gratitude to PCIC for its continued support of the province’s farming communities. 

He also encouraged beneficiaries to consistently utilize crop insurance as a vital safeguard for their livelihoods.

“Let us not hesitate to apply for insurance, even if the process may take time. Insurance is for our own protection, especially now that we are experiencing frequent typhoons, droughts, and pest infestations,” Justo said.

Source - https://pia.gov.ph