TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan – Senator Imee Marcos assured swift government assistance to families affected by Typhoon Julian in Cagayan province, particularly farmers whose crops were severely damaged.
During her visit, Marcos assessed the devastation, observing crops submerged in water and the newly harvested rice and corn left to sprout due to inadequate drying. She also noted the impact on livestock and houses.
Marcos called on relevant agencies to expedite the release of financial aid for the victims.
In Claveria town, she led the distribution of 3,000 food packs to residents, complementing the earlier efforts of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, which distributed 2,000 family food packs to various towns.
“I will also discuss with the Department of Agriculture the immediate support for our farmers,” she stated, highlighting the need for long-term programs for farmers and fisherfolk in calamity-prone areas.
Additionally, Marcos committed to facilitating a P5 million agricultural project for Cagayan and ensuring transport subsidies for affected fisherfolk and residents whose properties were damaged.
As chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, she emphasized the importance of establishing more cooperatives to enhance the reach of government programs.
Marcos also advocated for the creation of a Department of Water or a Water Authority to address water management issues that oversee effective resource use.
She also called for the establishment of a task force to manage flood control projects, pointing out the absence of a national flood control plan and stressing the need for a comprehensive water management strategy.
Finally, Marcos vowed to expedite the completion of bridge projects in Cagayan, citing the aging Buntun Bridge, a legacy of former President Ferdinand Marcos, Sr. (OTB/GVB/PIA Cagayan)
