THE Embassy of Japan in the Philippines led the ceremonial turnover of agriculture and fishery inputs to the beleaguered communities of Bohol Province on March 19.
The embassy’s first secretary and Agriculture attaché Jumpei Tachikawa led the turnover held in the Municipality of Ubay. Said initiative by Japan aims at restoring livelihoods and enhancing the resilience of farmers and fisherfolks affected by Typhoon “Odette” (international name Rai). Mayor Constantino Reyes of Ubay, Mayor Fernando, Estavilla of President Carlos P. Garcia City, Representative in the Philippines Lionel Dabbadie of the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Department of Agriculture officials, local government officials, and project beneficiaries also graced the event.
“Odette” struck the Philippines in December 2021 and caused substantial damage, particularly in the agriculture sector. According to FAO’s rapid assessment in Region 8 or Eastern Visayas and Region 13 or CARAGA , there has been significant damage to coconut production. In addition, fishermen were unable to continue their trade due to damages to their boats, equipment, and gear. The typhoon also had an impact on local food security.
Recognizing this urgent need for assistance, Japan has pledged a $2-million initiative, partnering with the FAO to address the plight of the farmers and fisherfolk in Bohol, Surigao del Norte, and Southern Leyte.
As part of this project, 30 units of water pumps will be distributed to community-based organizations in the above-mentioned areas. These will support the irrigation needs of farmers experiencing rainfall reduction by 60 percent due to El Niño.
The project will also provide for the ready-to-lay Bohol native chicken, as they are seen to exhibit high tolerance to harsh weather conditions. Other agriculture and fishery inputs to be provided include assorted lowland vegetable packets, fertilizers, feeds, milkfish fingerlings, and sets of drift gillnet, among others. Along with these inputs, the beneficiaries also underwent capacity-building workshops—including livelihood training and training on climate-information systems or early warning-system facilities.
“The Japanese government hopes that this effort will inspire impacted people to rebuild from the damages caused by the typhoon,” said the embassy.