BAUKO, Mountain Province – Farmers here are being encouraged to have their crops insured to help protect them from potential losses brought about by adverse occurrences on their source of livelihood.
Municipal Agriculturist Carolyn B. Wandalen encouraged farmers to avail the services of the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), which provides insurance protection against loss of their crops.
She said the program is essential to mitigate potential losses that may be caused by pest infestations, flooding, or drought occurrences.
“It is important that our farmers submit their crop insurance within 15 days after planting so we can submit it to PCIC. This agency safeguards our farmers in case of pest infestation, flooding, or drought occurrences,” Wandalen said.
Crop insurance is being advocated for farmers because of the various challenges they face due to the adverse effects of climate change.
Javier Lapinas Sr., a farmer from Barangay Bila, expressed his concerns over the decreased harvest this season compared to the previous year, attributing it to effects of drought caused by El Niño.
Aside from natural occurrences, farmers also highlighted the lack of irrigation and the prevalence of snail pests as contributing factors to the decline in their crop yield.
The Office of the Municipal Agriculture (OMAG) has also enhanced its livestock health programs to as a way of addressing food production concerns.
The program includes provision of essential livestock health services such as deworming and vaccination treatments.
By prioritizing the well-being of livestock and preventing the spread of diseases like African Swine Fever, the OMAG aims to sustain livestock-based livelihoods and ensure a consistent supply of high-quality animal products.
The OMAG also continuously implements various interventions to improve farming techniques, livestock health, and overall food production, such as provision of farmer’s training; distribution of information, education, and communication campaign materials; and monitoring of good agricultural practices. – Emily B. Paulino
