Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk and Families

The Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families is a government program led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.

This aims to provide financial support and resources to communities affected by the El Niño phenomenon, which has caused severe drought and negatively impacted the livelihoods of many in the agricultural and fisheries sectors.

Target beneficiaries include farmers, fisherfolk, and families from Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat, and Cotabato.

Expect immediate financial aid, agricultural inputs, infrastructure development, and technical assistance to enhance resilience and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

presidential assistance to farmers
Credits: PNA

What is the Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families?

The Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families is a government-led program by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. 

This aims to provide financial support and resources to communities affected by the El Niño phenomenon, which has caused severe drought and negatively impacted the livelihoods of many in the agricultural and fisheries sectors. 

This assistance is part of the administration’s broader commitment to uplift the lives of Filipinos and ensure food security and economic stability.

Significance of the Program

The significance of this program lies in its comprehensive approach to addressing the immediate and long-term needs of the affected communities. 

By providing financial aid, agricultural inputs, and infrastructure development, the government aims to mitigate the adverse effects of El Niño and enhance the resilience of farmers, fisherfolk, and their families. 

This assistance underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of its citizens and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

total beneficiaries
Credits: DSWD / Facebook

Legal Basis

The legal basis for the Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families program stems from various legislative and executive mandates that prioritize disaster response and support for vulnerable sectors. 

This includes provisions in the Philippine Constitution that emphasize social justice and equitable access to resources, as well as specific laws and executive orders aimed at disaster risk reduction and management, agricultural development, and social welfare.

farmers assistance el nino
Credits: PNA

Benefits

The benefits of the Presidential Assistance program are multifaceted:

  1. Financial Support: Immediate cash assistance to help families cope with the economic impact of drought.
  2. Agricultural Inputs: Distribution of seedlings, fertilizers, pumping equipment, and other necessary machinery to boost agricultural productivity.
  3. Infrastructure Development: Improvement of irrigation systems and provincial access roads to enhance transportation and local commerce.
  4. Technical Assistance: Support from various government agencies to provide knowledge and tools necessary for sustainable farming practices.
  5. Livelihood Support: Programs from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to aid in job creation and economic recovery.

Eligibility / Qualifications

Eligibility for the Presidential Assistance program is generally determined by the following criteria:

  1. Residency: Beneficiaries must be residents of the affected areas in Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat, and Cotabato.
  2. Occupation: Priority is given to farmers, fisherfolk, and families directly affected by the El Niño phenomenon.
  3. Economic Status: Those in need of immediate financial aid due to the impact of the drought are prioritized.
  4. Membership: Beneficiaries must be part of recognized local agricultural or fisheries groups.

Requirements

Applicants for the Presidential Assistance program need to prepare the following documents:

  1. Proof of Residency: Valid ID or certification from the local government unit (LGU).
  2. Proof of Occupation: Certification from local agricultural or fisheries groups.
  3. Proof of Income: Latest income tax return or certification of indigence from the LGU.
  4. Application Form: Completed application form available at the local DSWD or DA offices.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for the Presidential Assistance Program

  1. Gather Necessary Documents: Collect all required documents including proof of residency, occupation, and income.
  2. Visit Local Offices: Go to the nearest DSWD or DA office to obtain the application form.
  3. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the form with accurate and complete information.
  4. Submit the Application: Submit the completed form along with the required documents to the designated office.
  5. Wait for Verification: The submitted application will be verified by the respective government agency.
  6. Receive Notification: Once verified, you will receive notification of your application status.
  7. Claim Assistance: If approved, proceed to the designated distribution center to claim your financial assistance and other benefits.

Recent Updates

Presidential Assistance Provides Support to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat

In a display of commitment to the welfare of the community, the President extends assistance to farmers, fisherfolk, and families in the Municipality of Lebak, Sultan Kudarat. The photos capture the efforts made to provide resources and support to enhance their livelihoods and address their needs, ensuring a better future for the local population.

 
DSWD Distributes Php478.85 Million in Assistance to El Niño-Affected Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families in Mindanao

Under the Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families program, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has disbursed a total of Php478,850,000 in aid to 47,885 beneficiaries in Zamboanga, Sultan Kudarat, General Santos, Iligan City, and Cagayan de Oro. The assistance aims to support individuals affected by the El Niño phenomenon, providing much-needed relief and resources to help them cope with the challenges they face.

 

Video: Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk and Families in Sultan Kudarat

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. takes charge in personally overseeing the distribution of various forms of assistance to farmers, fisherfolk, and families affected by the El Niño phenomenon in the Municipality of Isulan, Sultan Kudarat. The event brings together different government agencies, including the Department of Agriculture, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Department of Labor and Employment, to showcase the Administration’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the nation. Cash assistance, agricultural support, livelihood toolkits, and rice donations are among the aid provided during the ceremony.

 

Conclusion

The Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families is a major program that demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens, especially during times of crisis. 

By providing immediate financial aid, enhancing agricultural productivity, and developing infrastructure, the program aims to alleviate the suffering caused by the El Niño phenomenon and build a more resilient and prosperous community. 

Through collaborative efforts between national and local governments, as well as active participation from the beneficiaries, the vision of a united and thriving Philippines can be realized. 

This not only addresses current challenges but also sets the foundation for sustainable development and long-term economic stability for the affected regions.

 

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