LEGAZPI CITY — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has committed to providing livelihood training and assistance to farmers and their families displaced by the ongoing unrest at Mayon Volcano, which remains at Alert Level 2 as of January 12, 2026.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced the initiative during a briefing in Legazpi City, stating that the DA, in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and local government units, will roll out programs focused on alternative income sources for residents affected by the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ).
Key Components of the Livelihood Program
- Training Areas:
- High-value crop farming (e.g., vegetables, herbs, mushrooms)
- Livestock and poultry raising
- Agri-tourism and backyard gardening
- Food processing and value-adding (e.g., drying fruits, making preserves)
- Organic farming and urban agriculture techniques
- Target Beneficiaries: Farmers and families evacuated from or living within the PDZ in Guinobatan, Camalig, Daraga, Legazpi City, and Tabaco City.
- Support Package:
- Free training sessions (in partnership with TESDA and local cooperatives)
- Starter kits (seeds, tools, livestock, equipment)
- Access to low-interest loans and crop insurance
- Market linkages for produce
Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized:
“While we continue to monitor Mayon closely, we cannot let our farmers remain idle. These livelihood programs will give them sustainable income alternatives while they wait for the volcano to stabilize.”
The program is expected to begin in late January or early February 2026, with initial focus on the most affected barangays. Funding will come from the 2026 DA budget and the Quick Response Fund for disaster-affected communities.
Here are visuals related to the ongoing Mayon unrest, displaced families, and DA livelihood programs (training sessions, starter kits, and alternative farming examples).
A proactive step to support communities living under the shadow of Mayon — hoping for both safety and sustainable livelihoods.