Sugarcane farmers displaced by pest attack to get aid

MANILA, Philippines — Financial assistance and livelihood interventions are being explored for sugarcane farmers displaced by the red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI) infestation, according to the Department of Labor and Employment.

DOLE Secretary Francis Tolentino yesterday met with officials of the Sugar Tripartite Council (STC) to discuss labor and workforce concerns in the sugar industry.

Stakeholders stressed the need for an immediate financial assistance for agricultural workers whose sources of income have been affected by the pest infestation.

Leilani Reynoso, chief of the DOLE’s bureau of workers with special concerns, said affected farmers could receive assistance through programs like the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers or TUPAD.

The DOLE said it would hold another meeting with the STC to discuss other concerns affecting sugarcane farmers and agricultural workers.