SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union — To bolster recovery efforts in the agriculture sector, the Provincial Government of La Union distributed financial assistance to 209 farmers and fisherfolk on Monday, May 11, 2026. The beneficiaries, hailing from the municipalities of Bangar, Bauang, Caba, Luna, and Sudipen, were among those hardest hit by the onslaught of Typhoon Uwan (international name: Fung-wong) in November 2025.
The distribution, held at the Ortega Convention Center, was led by Governor Mario Eduardo Ortega as part of the province’s sustained commitment to post-disaster livelihood restoration.
The aid was disbursed under Provincial Ordinance No. 425-2023, also known as the “Agricultural Emergency Trust Fund,” which was established to provide a dedicated safety net for the local agriculture industry during calamities.
- Individual Grant: Each of the 209 beneficiaries received ₱8,000 in cash assistance.
- Purpose: The funds are intended to help farmers and fisherfolk procure seeds, repair damaged equipment, or restock fingerlings to restart their operations following the heavy losses incurred last year.
- Total Provincial Commitment: Governor Ortega emphasized that the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist has been directed to prioritize immediate needs, noting that the province “will continue to unite” to ensure the sector’s resilience.
Typhoon Uwan battered Northern Luzon in November 2025, reaching Super Typhoon status before making landfall. The province of La Union suffered extensive damage during the event:
- Agricultural Losses: The storm caused severe flooding and storm surges, resulting in over ₱1 billion in estimated losses for the agriculture and infrastructure sectors across the province.
- Displacement: During the height of the storm, over 10,300 families in La Union were affected, with thousands forced into evacuation centers in coastal towns like Bangar and Caba.
- Government Response: The recent payout complements previous national aid distributed shortly after the storm, including Emergency Cash Transfers (ECT) from the DSWD and seed packs from the Department of Agriculture.
The distribution ceremony was attended by several members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, including Board Members Maria Rosario Eufrosina P. Nisce, Teresita O. Garcia, Aaron Kyle M. Pinzon, and Joyce M. Abuan.
Officials noted that the recovery process is ongoing, with a focus on strengthening housing and agricultural infrastructure to withstand future “weather disturbances” of similar magnitude.
“Do not lose hope, no matter what storms may come, because we are always here behind you… We will continue to unite in providing adequate and proper assistance for our farmers and fisherfolk.” — Gov. Mario Eduardo Ortega