By: Villamor Visaya Jr. – Correspondent / @VillVisayaJrINQ

TUGUEGARAO CITY — Gusty winds and heavy rains caused by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name: Trami) have caused an estimated P500 million in damage to rice plants across Cagayan Valley, according to Rose Mary Aquino, regional executive director of the Department of Agriculture.

Many rice fields may not recover as floodwaters persist in low-lying areas, even with rains now easing, Aquino explained in a statement on Oct. 26.

A total of 96,000 hectares of mature rice plants suffered extensive damage, while 40 percent were in the reproductive stage.

Losses totaled P521.33 million, with P506 million representing damage.

Isabela was the hardest hit, with about P498 million in crop damage, of which P382 million was only partially affected.

Quirino reported P3 million in crop losses, and Cagayan’s final damage report is still pending validation.

Corn crop damage was minimal, impacting around 50,000 ha and resulting in P9 million losses in Cagayan and P1 million in Quirino.

Fisheries sustained about P3 million in losses, affecting 138 fisherfolk across the region. INQ

Published Date: October 28, 2024