NEGROS Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. urged the farmers to have their rice and corn plantation enrolled with the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation so they will have something to spend for replanting in case of damage.
"It's free because the provincial government spends on the premiums with PHIC. All the farmers have to do is register their rice and corn plantations," the governor said.
The governor cautioned the farmers that climate change is here so heavy rains that cause floods could damage the rice and corn plantation.
Provincial Agriculturist Japhet Masculino said the latest damage to crops in the province was pegged at P3.2 million due to heavy rains that caused flooding in some areas in the province.
He said that PHIC is giving crop indemnity for a maximum of P17,000 per hectare for the crop damage depending on the extent of damage which is determined by the adjuster.
Masculino, meanwhile, confirmed there was a rat infestation in Valladolid and San Enrique towns.
However, he said the extent of damage is yet to be determined.
Masculino said the infestation such as done by rats is also covered by the crop insurance.
He said the grain bug that was reported in Sipalay City early this year has been approved for insurance coverage.
He said it is very important for the farmers to have their respective plantations registered with PHIC.
