Storms leave PHP 2.5M in crop, fishery losses in Negros

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — Three successive storms—Mirasol, Nando, and Opong—have caused an estimated PHP 2,530,481.63 in agricultural damage in Negros Occidental, according to the latest assessment from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) as of September 29.

The OPA report released Monday showed that the bulk of the losses came from rice crops, totaling PHP 2,415,481.63.

Fisheries losses were placed at PHP 115,000.

The report noted that 18 barangays in four municipalities and cities were affected, impacting 159 farmers across 116.40 hectares of farmland.

Moises Padilla sustained the most damage, with seven barangays severely affected.

Other affected areas included San Carlos City, Salvador Benedicto, and Isabela.

In the fisheries sector, one local government unit, two barangays, and four fisherfolk reported damage.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, through the OPA, has ordered continued assessment to determine the full extent of the damage and ensure timely interventions.

The provincial government assured that assistance will be extended to all farmers and fisherfolk who suffered losses.

The report further confirmed that rice damage spanned 18 barangays under four LGUs, affecting 159 farmers over 116.40 hectares of planted rice.