A total of 234 farmers from various parts of Ilocos Norte received fuel subsidies from the provincial government on Monday.
In partnership with a local gas station, the beneficiaries secured stubs for 30 liters of fuel each.
“Mahirap ang buhay ngayon (Life is hard these days) and we at the provincial government are doing all ways and means to help cushion the oil price hike,” Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos said during the distribution of fuel vouchers at Ilocos Norte Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Center.
The provincial government also distributed 120 family food packs and at least 30 bags of inorganic fertilizers to farmers under the “Agri Ka Dito” program to sustain the livelihood of community farmers and fisherfolk.
During the distribution, the governor asked for patience from the agricultural sector as fuel aid from the national government is currently underway.
“We have reached out to the national government and we are just waiting for the release,” she said, noting that the province prioritized the transport sector for fuel subsidies before transitioning to the agriculture sector.
On Monday, the Department of Agriculture also announced PHP75 million in fuel assistance for fisherfolk. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will distribute the aid to over 15,000 fisherfolk nationwide, with plans to expand the program through additional funds under the Presidential Assistance Program for Farmers and Fisherfolk. (PNA)