DA: Agri damage from 'Juaning' reaches P1.063-B

Tropical Storm Juaning wrought P1.063 billion in damage to farm crops and related infrastructure as of the start of the week, the Department of Agriculture (DA) reported Tuesday. In an interview with reporters, DA Secretary Proceso Alcala said production losses from crops and livestock have so far totaled P649 million, while infrastructure damages have amounted to P414 million. Lost crops included palay, corn, high-value commercial crops, and selected livestock, according to the DA. The DA estimated lost palay at 4,167 metric tons valued at P253 million, representing 0.12 percent of the 3.49-million MT output forecast this third quarter. The agency also said 3,914 hectares of rice fields in Regions II, III, IV-B, and V were reportedly damaged by “Juaning." About P378 million worth of corn were also lost to the storm, equivalent to 27,341 MT. The DA said the bulk of damage came from Quirino in Region II, which lost 21,539 MT of the commodity, while the other affected areas were Aurora, Albay, Camarines Sur, and Masbate. Juaning also reportedly damaged around P15 million in high-value commercial crops, mostly vegetables, according to the DA. In the provinces of Albay, Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, the livestock sector lost P3 million. Meanwhile, irrigation infrastructure and facilities in fisheries sustained P414 million in damages. The DA also said it has ordered the release of seed assistance to affected areas. — PE/VS, GMA News