Bicol Region's Agriculture Sector Suffers P12 Million in Losses Due to Tropical Depression Amang

The Department of Agriculture reported that Tropical Depression Amang has caused damage worth at least P12 million to the farm sector in the Bicol Region. Rice incurred the most significant portion of the estimated cost of damage, amounting to almost P8 million, while high-value crops suffered P4 million in losses. Livestock and poultry also suffered some damage, resulting in a total cost of P12.3 million. Most of the losses were reported in Camarines Sur and Sorsogon. However, the OIC for Field Operations Service, U-Nichols Manalo, stated that the damage would have a negligible effect on rice production levels since most damaged rice fields only had seedlings as planting for the wet season had just started. Furthermore, those affected could still replant their crops.

Manalo continued by saying that while it is not anticipated that Tropical Depression Amang's harm will have a large impact on rice production, the Department of Agriculture would nevertheless help the affected farmers. In order to promote the recovery of the agriculture sector in the Bicol Region, the department will perform assessments to ascertain the degree of the damage and identify the necessary actions.

The Department of Agriculture also reminded farmers to take the necessary precautions to minimize the impact of natural disasters on their farms. They urged farmers to plant crops that are resistant to strong winds and flooding, maintain proper drainage systems, and store enough food and water for their livestock during emergencies.

With rice being the primary crop grown there, the Bicol Region is renowned for its agricultural production. The destruction brought on by Tropical Depression Amang shows how susceptible the area's agriculture industry is to natural disasters and the importance of taking preventative measures to lessen the toll that these catastrophes have on farmers and their means of subsistence.