Manila: Farmers in Negros Oriental were urged to register with the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) before the El Ni±o phenomenon hits the country by next month, an official said on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Junriel Aba, team leader of the PCIC in Negros Oriental, stated at a forum that they have approximately PHP50 million allocated to cover insurance for coconut farmers and high-value crops. Aba indicated that the insurance coverage is about PHP3,000 for each rice and corn beneficiary.

Additionally, Aba mentioned the implementation of the Coconut Farmers Industry Trust Fund, which allows coconut farmers to avail of free insurance and a PHP10,000 burial benefit. However, he noted that currently, only about 30 percent of the crop insurance has been utilized, urging farmers to register immediately as the registration will close once El Ni±o begins.

Aba emphasized that unregistered farmers will not receive coverage for any damage to their crops or livestock. During the forum, agricultural officials highlighted the primary threat to corn farmers during drought is armyworms, which have the potential to devastate numerous hectares of crops. Reports from the Department of Agriculture have documented that several hectares of corn were severely damaged by armyworm infestations during the 2024 El Ni±o.

For those in the fisheries sector, Aba explained that three criteria-strong winds, big waves, and heavy rains-must be met for a registered fisherman to qualify for insurance. Once these conditions are fulfilled, the PCIC will pay the insurance to the registered fisherman.