P6.72 billion in losses due to "Ulysses"

Farmers, fishermen take the brunt of “Ulysses”

MANILA – Agriculture Secretary William Dollente Dar said the latest weather disturbance, “Ulysses” resulted in the loss of agricultural crops and fisheries amounting to P6.72 billion, affecting over 334,533 hectares and some 167,885 farmers and fisherfolk.

In a statement released today, the Department of Agriculture said the typhoon resulted in the lost of some 226,708 metric tons of farm produce in eight regions across the country.

“Rice is the most affected commodity by “Ulysses” pegged at 35% or P2.37 billion, high value crops at 30% worth P2.04 billion, fisheries at 20% worth P1.36 billion, corn at 8% worth P540.54 million, coconut at 3% or P185.83 million and small-scale irrigation systems, agricultural facilities, machineries and equipment at 1.5% worth P105.68 million and livestock at 1.5% worth P101.15 million,” the statement revealed.

The Department of Agriculture assures farmers and fishermen affected by the recent spate of typhoons will be assisted through different programs worth P8.5 billion. (Melo M. Acuña)

Secretary William Dollente Dar (File Photo/Melo M. Acuna)