Typhoon Tino caused an estimated P47 million (about US$810,000) in agricultural losses across Cebu City's mountain barangays following its landfall on November 4, disrupting crop production and irrigation systems.
According to the City Agriculture Department (CAD), nearly 4,000 farmers were affected, with about 998 hectares of farmland damaged in Barangays Sudlon II, Lusaran, Paril, Cambinocot, Guba, and Buot. The affected areas were planted mainly with sweet corn, vegetables, and bananas.
CAD head Joey Baclayon said the typhoon also damaged irrigation infrastructure. "The major damage, aside from the crops, was on their water supply systems. Most of the hoses connected to springs were washed out, so our priority now is to help them reconnect their irrigation sources," Baclayon said.
To support recovery, CAD will distribute assorted vegetable seeds and drums to help farmers resume planting. The Cebu City Government plans to provide financial assistance ranging from P5,000 to P10,000 (about US$85 to US$170) per farmer, depending on the extent of losses.
Baclayon stated that despite the crop damage, Cebu City's vegetable supply remains stable, with nearby municipalities such as Dalaguete and Cagayan expected to supply additional produce if needed.
The Department of Agriculture has also implemented a price freeze on basic commodities to prevent price hikes in local markets.
Source: Philstar Global
