Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Monday welcomed plans to reallocate part of the flood control budget to support Filipino farmers.

The Office of the President earlier announced the reallocation of PHP255 billion from the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) flood control program to other priority programs of various agencies, including the Department of Agriculture (DA), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Education (DepEd), and Department of Health (DOH).

In an ambush interview, Tiu Laurel said the additional funds would help farmers recover from losses.

He also thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his decision.

“Ang balita ko lang (What I only learned) actually last week, which was also announced by our President, na ‘yung part of the DPWH flood control fund na hindi na i-implement for next year, nabigay sa DA (that the part of the DPWH flood control fund which will not be implemented next year was given to the DA),” he added.

“We are thankful because this is a big help to our farmers. And part of this, as far as I know, will also include cash assistance to farmers who have suffered losses this year.”

Tiu Laurel said they are still awaiting the final version of the allocation under the 2026 proposed budget.

According to the Presidential Communications Office, PHP39.37 billion of the reallocated funds will go to the DA.

The budget will cover post-harvest facilities, fish ports, farm insurance, and direct financial assistance for farmers and fisherfolk. (PNA)