Ilocos norte: The Ilocos Norte provincial government distributed PHP8.1 million in livelihood assistance to 330 farmers from various "zanjera" (communal irrigation) organizations at the Ilocos Norte Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Center here on Wednesday. The assistance included 70 heads of cattle, 143 goats, 187 piglets, and 233 hog starter feeds.
According to Philippines News Agency, Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos stated that the amount was sourced from the provincial government's share of Republic Act 7171, also known as the tobacco excise tax. "This is truly meant for you, our farmers, who are the backbone of our economy," the governor said, encouraging the beneficiaries to remain patient amid the ongoing energy crisis affecting local livelihoods, transportation, and essential services.
The distribution of livelihood assistance is part of the Provincial Veterinary Office's Animal Dispersal Program, aimed at supporting the provincial government's recovery efforts for livestock raisers. Larry Baniaga, a cattle beneficiary from Barangay Saoit, Burgos, Ilocos Norte, expressed gratitude to the provincial government for the assistance. He noted that his association had recently requested cattle livelihood assistance, and he was one of those selected through a raffle draw among its members.
Under the program, the offspring of the cattle will be passed on to other beneficiaries, creating a sustainable cycle of livestock dispersal throughout the province. Similar guidelines apply to goat and piglet dispersals. Provincial Veterinary Office chief Dr. Loida Valenzuela emphasized that the animal dispersal program aims to enhance food security and sustainable livelihood.
To maintain a year-round supply of piglets for the swine dispersal project, each beneficiary is required to return at least two piglets or weanlings to the provincial government after two years. Beneficiaries are guaranteed cash from pig sales within three to four months, as the demand for "longganisa" (sausage) and "bagnet" (crispy pork) remains high. Valenzuela added that the animal dispersal would be monitored through vaccination and vitamin administration, with beneficiaries providing animal housing, feedstock, and labor as a counterpart.
