Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk and Families in Surigao del Sur (Speech) 06/20/2024

Tandag City, Surigao del Sur
June 20, 2024


“Hinding-hindi namin nakakalimutan ang ating mga kababayan dito sa Surigao del Sur. Kaya po narito kami ngayon upang personal na ipahatid ang tulong mula sa pamahalaan,” stated President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as he led the distribution of various assistance to identified farmers, fisherfolk and local families to address the challenges faced by the community, particularly in light of the recent El Niño that severely affected Caraga Region.

In a speech delivered in Tandag City, the President highlighted the importance of agriculture and fishing industries in Surigao del Sur, acknowledging their vital role in sustaining the local economy. He empathized with the hardships endured by the residents during El Niño which left over 11,905 farmers in Region 13 struggling.

“Iyan ang dahilan kung bakit ako narito, kasama ang mga iba’t ibang ahensya ng gobyerno: Gusto kong masiguro ang maayos na pagtanggap ninyo ng aming hatid na ayuda at malaman mismo ang kalagayan ninyo,” he affirmed, emphasizing his commitment to improving the livelihoods and productivity of Surigao del Sur and the Caraga Region as a whole.

As part of the assistance package, President Marcos Jr. announced a cash aid amounting to PhP10,000 for 9,195 beneficiaries under the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program. Additionally, PhP10,000 will be provided to farmers, fishermen and selected families affected by El Niño in Surigao del Sur and Agusan del Sur.

The distribution, facilitated through local government units (LGUs) with support from the Department of Agriculture (DA) and DSWD, aims to ensure swift and efficient delivery to those in need. In total, over PhP60 million has been allocated for Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur, underlining the Administration’s comprehensive approach to address the challenges faced by the community.

The Chief Executive also outlined infrastructure projects nearing completion, such as the Cabadbaran-Puting Bato-Lanuza Road and the East-West Lateral Road, which will improve connectivity and facilitate easier transportation across the Region.

Looking forward, he reassured the Surigaonons of government's preparedness for the upcoming rainy season, pledging funds and food supplies in case of emergencies.

The President concluded his speech by reaffirming his Administration's dedication to enhancing education and healthcare in Caraga, citing substantial investments in school construction, renovation and healthcare facility projects.

"Asahan ninyo na patuloy kaming maghahanap ng katugunan sa mga pagsubok na kinakaharap ng ating bansa, at magpapatupad ng mga angkop na programa at patakaran upang matikman ninyo ang bunga ng inyong mga pagsisikap,” President Marcos Jr. assured them, urging unity and cooperation among all stakeholders for the realization of a ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ where every Filipino family can thrive.

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