MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has reported that the damage to the agricultural sector caused by Tropical Storm Enteng has reached P350.85 million. This loss is a significant blow to farmers and fishermen, especially those relying on rice production, which took the brunt of the storm’s impact.
According to the DA, around 94% of the damaged crops were rice plants, a staple in the region. Rice-producing areas in Luzon were the most affected, with many fields submerged in floodwaters. Four percent of the affected crops were corn, and the remaining one percent were high-value crops such as fruits and vegetables, which typically have shorter growth cycles and are more susceptible to storm damage.
The devastation extends beyond the fields, affecting approximately 13,600 farmers and fishermen. Many of these farmers rely heavily on seasonal harvests, meaning the loss of crops could have long-term effects on their livelihood and the food supply in the region. Fishermen have also reported damage to boats and fishing equipment due to strong winds and rough seas caused by the storm.
Fatalities and Impact on Communities
Aside from the significant agricultural damage, at least 12 people have been reported dead due to the heavy rains, flash floods, and landslides triggered by Enteng. The storm, which hit large parts of Luzon, particularly the western regions, caused extensive flooding, forcing many residents to evacuate their homes and seek shelter in evacuation centers. In some areas, rivers overflowed, washing away houses and vehicles.
The Civil Defense office has confirmed these fatalities, noting that many of the victims were either swept away by floodwaters or trapped in landslides in the mountainous regions of Luzon. Rescue and retrieval operations are ongoing in some of the most severely hit areas, with local government units and rescue teams working together to provide aid to those in need.
Ongoing Effects and Weather Warnings
Although Typhoon Enteng left the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) early on Wednesday, it continues to affect the region indirectly. The storm has enhanced the southwest monsoon (habagat), which is expected to bring gusty winds and heavy rains over the western parts of Luzon, including Metro Manila. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued warnings for residents in flood-prone and landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant as more rain is expected in the coming days.
Local authorities are now focusing on disaster recovery efforts, particularly in addressing the needs of displaced families and restoring damaged infrastructure. The DA has assured that interventions such as seed distribution and financial aid will be provided to affected farmers to help them recover from the losses.
This recent calamity underscores the vulnerability of the Philippines to extreme weather events, with agriculture and rural communities often bearing the brunt of such disasters. The government is expected to release additional funds and resources to assist the victims and ensure that the farming sector can bounce back swiftly in the aftermath of Typhoon Enteng.
Call for Support
As the country braces for potential aftereffects of the enhanced monsoon, various non-governmental organizations and aid agencies are calling for donations and volunteer support to help those affected. Many communities are still in dire need of basic necessities such as food, clean water, and medical supplies.
For further updates on the relief efforts and how you can help, follow government advisories and monitor relief organizations operating in the affected areas.
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