Rice farmers are the backbone of the Philippine economy, but they are also one of the most vulnerable sectors. They are often exposed to natural disasters, such as typhoons and floods, which can damage their crops and livelihoods. In addition, rice farmers are also affected by fluctuating palay prices, which can make it difficult for them to earn a living.
The Philippine government has implemented several programs to help rice farmers, including the Expanded Survival and Recovery Assistance Program for Rice Farmers (SURE Aid). SURE Aid is a loan assistance program that provides immediate relief to rice farmers affected by the initial impact of lower rice prices. Under the SURE Aid program, rice farmers who are farming one hectare and below may avail themselves of a one-time, zero-interest loan amounting to P15,000 payable for up to eight years. The National Food Authority (NFA) will buy the produce of rice farmers who were able to benefit from the loan assistance under SURE Aid.
The SURE Aid program is valuable relief assistance for rice farmers. It can help them cover their immediate expenses, such as the cost of seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. The SURE Aid program can also help rice farmers regain their capacity to continue their production.
Loreto and Agusan del Sur farmers receive SURE Aid cards
 |
| Source: Shine Loreto Bibo Loreto Facebook Page |
On October 16, 2023, around 1,000 rice farmers in Loreto, Agusan del Sur, received their SURE Aid cards. The cards were distributed by the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Municipal Local Government Unit of Loreto, Agusan del Sur.
The SURE Aid cards will allow rice farmers to avail themselves of the loan assistance under the SURE Aid program. The cards can also be used to purchase agricultural inputs at accredited retailers.
The distribution of the SURE Aid cards in Loreto, Agusan del Sur, is a welcome development for rice farmers in the area. The cards will help them to cope with the challenges that they face and to continue to produce food for the Philippines.
Here are some of the benefits of the SURE Aid program for rice farmers:
- Financial assistance: The SURE Aid program provides rice farmers with a one-time, zero-interest loan of P15,000. This can help them cover their immediate expenses and regain their capacity to continue their production.
- Market access: The NFA will buy the produce of rice farmers who were able to benefit from the loan assistance under the SURE Aid program. This ensures that rice farmers have a market for their produce and that they can earn a fair price for their crops.
- Stability: The SURE Aid program can help stabilize the income of rice farmers and make them more resilient to economic shocks.
How to avail of the SURE Aid program
Rice farmers who are interested in availing of the SURE Aid program may visit any Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) branch. They will need to bring the following documents:
- Valid identification card
- Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) or Land Certificate of Title (TCT)
- Proof of income (e.g., tax returns, bank statements, etc.)
- Proof of residency
Once the rice farmer has submitted the required documents, the LBP will process their loan application. If the application is approved, the rice farmer will receive the loan proceeds in cash or through a bank deposit.
The SURE Aid program is a great opportunity for rice farmers to improve their financial situation and continue to produce food for the Philippines. I encourage all eligible rice farmers to avail themselves of this program.
References:
- Expanded Survival and Recovery Assistance Program for Rice Farmers (SURE Aid): https://sdg.neda.gov.ph/survival-and-recovery-sure-assistance-program/)
- SURE Aid Program for Rice Farmers: https://rcef.da.gov.ph/rcef-rice-farmers-financial-assistance-rcef-rffa/
- Land Bank of the Philippines - SURE Aid Program: https://acpc.gov.ph/da-acpc-landbank-ink-moa-for-sure-aid-program/
- Shine Loreto Bibo Loreto - https://facebook.com/lguloretoads/