Small farmers in Cebu may receive government-funded crop insurance as the province prepares for the expected effects of El Niño beginning late this year and extending into 2027.
Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Roldan Saragena said the provincial government is tapping P34 million for insurance premiums of qualified farmers, particularly those cultivating three hectares or less.
The assistance is intended to help protect small agricultural producers from possible losses as dry conditions are expected to disrupt farm production.
The provincial government will pay the insurance premiums of qualified beneficiaries, allowing them to obtain coverage without shouldering the cost.
Saragena said the province is planning a wider information campaign to encourage eligible farmers to enroll before the effects of El Niño become more pronounced.
“The definite nga moigo jud ang El Nino ari na feel ang epekto sa last week of November up to first semestral of 2027,” Saragena said.
The preparations followed discussions last week between the provincial government and municipal and city agriculturists on measures to mitigate the expected dry period.
The provincial government also invited the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration to provide information on the El Niño forecast during the meeting.
Aside from insurance, the province is preparing drought-tolerant crops and other agricultural support, including organic fertilizer, water pumps, water tanks and plastic drums.
The provincial agriculture office also plans to distribute one million sweet potato cuttings under the Sagip Saka Act. Mung beans and other vegetable varieties that can tolerate hot conditions will likewise be distributed.
Saragena said the province is also preparing assistance for fisherfolk, including additional payaw or fish aggregating devices.
He stressed that the insurance assistance remains subject to existing guidelines and is not automatically available to all farmers.
The provincial agriculture office is urging eligible small farmers to take advantage of the program as the province continues preparations for the anticipated El Niño conditions.
“So far, mao nay nahuna-hunaan nga plano sa El Nino,” Saragena said.
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