BUTUAN CITY(January 21) — More than 1,300 farmers across Caraga are expected to receive fuel assistance in 2026, as the Department of Agriculture – Caraga (DA-13) continues its Fuel Assistance to Farmers Program to help cushion rising production costs.
DA-13 said around 1,392 farmers are targeted for this year’s rollout, with over PHP6.8 million still available for fuel subsidies. Each beneficiary will receive a PHP3,000 fuel discount card or voucher, aimed at easing expenses for land preparation, irrigation, and hauling.
Helping farmers cope with rising costs
Fuel remains one of the biggest expenses for farmers, especially those who rely on tractors, water pumps, and transport vehicles. DA-13 said the program is meant to help small farmers stay productive despite fluctuating fuel prices.
In 2025, the agency disbursed more than PHP8.8 million, benefiting 8,124 farmers across the provinces of Caraga. Since the program started in 2023, a total of PHP17.1 million has already been released to 12,751 farmers in the region.
“Big help during land preparation”
For beneficiaries like Hilda Bauzon, a farmer from San Juan, the fuel aid made a real difference during the planting season.
“The program helped us reduce our expenses, especially during land preparations amidst the rising prices of fuel,” Bauzon said.
She added that the money saved on fuel allowed her and other farmers to reallocate funds for fertilizers, seeds, and farm tools, helping improve overall farm productivity.
Who can qualify?
To be eligible, farmers must be listed in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA)—the government’s official database of farmers, fishers, and agri-sector workers.
DA-13 said it is currently validating potential beneficiaries in coordination with local government units to ensure that qualified farmers are included in this year’s distribution.
Small aid, big impact
While the fuel voucher may seem modest, agriculture officials say it can mean the difference between delayed planting and a timely harvest—especially for small farmers operating on thin margins.
With fuel prices remaining unpredictable, DA-13 said the program is part of broader efforts to keep Caraga’s agricultural sector resilient and food production steady.
For many farmers in the region, the assistance offers more than just fuel—it provides breathing room during one of the most expensive stages of farming.
