DA readies fuel subsidy for farmers, fishers amid Middle East tensions

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has at least P100 million ready for farmers and fisherfolk who may be affected by the impact of renewed conflict in the Middle East.

A total of P50 million has been set aside for 9,700 farmers. Another P50 million has been allocated for around 15,000 fisherfolk. Eligible farmers will get P5,000 each while fishers get P3,000 per head.

The DA estimates there are around 10 million farmers and fisherfolk. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, there are 19.68 million Filipinos belonging to households that have at least one agricultural operator in 2022. They remain among the poorest sectors in the country.

DA spokesman Arnel de Mesa said they are prioritizing farmers and fishers who have not received fuel subsidies in the past.

“Anytime the funds may be released already,” De Mesa told reporters on Wednesday, March 4.

The fund is the unused fuel subsidy initially reserved under the 2025 budget which can be appropriated until December 2026.

The total budget for fuel subsidy under the 2025 budget is P150 million. The P50 million not yet with the DA will be released by the Department of Budget and Management once world oil prices reach $80 per barrel.

The agriculture department is bracing for impacts following the US attacks on Iran and the drop in vessel traffic along the Strait of Hormuz, a global oil and gas corridor.

Spikes in oil and gas prices increase farm input and fishing production costs. The DA doesn’t have a fuel subsidy budget for 2026, said De Mesa. – Rappler.com