The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Negros Island Region (DSWD-NIR) has distributed nearly PHP315 million in emergency cash transfer (ECT) assistance to 30,608 small sugarcane farmers affected by red-striped soft-scale insect (RSSI) infestations, according to an official on Tuesday.

DSWD-NIR Regional Director Arwin Razo said in an interview that weekly payouts are being made in cities and municipalities where small sugarcane farmers have suffered losses due to the pest infestation.

“This is a continuing effort of the government through the DSWD-NIR to provide assistance to small farmers with five hectares or less of sugarcane fields that have been attacked by the RSSI,” Razo said.

As of Sept. 7, DSWD-NIR data indicate that PHP314.950 million has been distributed to beneficiaries in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental.

Of the total amount, more than PHP250.4 million was disbursed to 25,222 beneficiaries in Negros Occidental.

The beneficiaries came from Binalbagan, Cadiz City, Cauayan, Himamaylan City, Hinigaran, Isabela, La Carlota City, La Castellana, Manapla, Moises Padilla, Murcia, Sagay City, San Carlos City, Sipalay City, Talisay City, and Salvador Benedicto.

In Negros Oriental, about PHP54.5 million was distributed to 5,386 beneficiaries in Amlan, Bais City, Bayawan City, Canlaon City, Jimalalud, Mabinay, Pamplona, Siaton, and Zamboanguita.

Razo mentioned that the beneficiaries list was supplied by local government units (LGUs) and cross-checked with the records of the Sugar Regulatory Administration.

He said the weekly ECT payouts are intended to provide direct, unconditional cash assistance to help small farmers cope with severe crop and production losses caused by the RSSI infestation.

Most LGUs in Negros Oriental have already been covered, while subsequent payouts will be made in Negros Occidental, Razo added. (PNA)