THE Department of Agriculture (DA)-Regional Field Office III continues to distribute P5,000 financial assistance to farmers, a total of P21 million, as part of the Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) program of the DA.

This was made possible through the Agricultural Program Coordinating Office.

One of the objectives of the RFFA program is to provide cash grants to smallholder rice farmers and enhance farmers' opportunity to improve productivity and profitability during this Covid-19 pandemic.

In coordination with the Land Bank of the Philippines and Municipality of Guimba and Talavera, Nueva Ecija, DA-RFO III has released 4,240 cash cards to rice farmers who are tilling two hectares and below.

Norberto Galiema from Local Government Unit of Guimba, Nueva Ecija acknowledged the relentless efforts and commitment of the DA-RFO III in helping the local farmers.

"I will utilize the money in improving and enhancing my rice field. A month ago, my house was hit by a fire and as of now, my family is just living with our relatives. I was planning to use the remaining money in building a temporary shelter for us. I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to the department for its undying support to local farmers," Galiema added.

Besides, Agriculture Secretary William Dar emphasized that RFFA is not a loan program but an unconditional cash transfer to farmers affected by Rice Tariffication Law. It is a part of the nationwide response of the national government to assist palay farmers in the country.