LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – Nearly P20 million worth of assistance to farmers and fisherfolks in the province are distributed by the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte through its “Agri Ka Dito!” program at the Ilocos Norte Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Center on April 25.

Agricultural inputs such as 680 bags of organic and inorganic fertilizer, 8,442 bottles of foliar fertilizer or insecticides, and 26 units of agri-machineries were turned over to the beneficiaries.

Meanwhile, livestock support namely 137 heads of goat and 500 heads of free-range chicken, 37,700 pieces of tilapia fingerlings, 313 pieces of fishnet, and 264 pieces of gill net were also distributed.

Moreover, the documentation allowance and cash incentives for the Bamboo Rehab project beneficiaries were given.

The Agri Ka Dito! is the provincial government’s flagship program, through the Provincial Agriculture Office, that aims to sustain the livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolks amidst escalating agricultural expenses.

Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc assures continuing assistance for Ilokano farmers and fisherfolks as he recognizes their significant contribution as top producers of high-value crops.

“Rest assured, the provincial government will continue to support you. As your governor, I will give everything I can to serve our farmers and fishermen. We are always here for you,” said Manotoc.

In response, Roben Patoc, 66, fisherfolk and beneficiary from Brgy. 32-A Lapaz, Laoag City, thanked the provincial government for granting their request through the agriculture program.

“I and my fellow fisherfolks are truly grateful to the Provincial Agriculture Office together with the Provincial Government for providing us the things we need for fishing even more efficiently,” said Patoc. (JCR/MJTAB PIA Ilocos Norte)