October 30, 2024
Currimao, Philippines launches first life insurance programme for farmers and fishers
Approximately 1,400 farmers and fishers in Currimao, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, are set to benefit from the first-ever life insurance programme introduced by the municipal government in collaboration with the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC). Philippine News Agency reported.
Through the PCIC's Agricultural Producers Protection Plan (AP3), insured individuals will receive a maximum coverage of PHP 50,000 (US$858) in the event of death caused by accident, natural circumstances, murder, or assault, with coverage valid for one year.
Currimao's municipal agriculturist, Engineer Erickson Biag, said that applications are now open for the second batch of registered farmers and their beneficiaries. "We have allocated PHP 200,000 (US$3,453) from our office MOOE (Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses) to cover life insurance premiums for all farmers and fishers registered with the RSBSA (Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture)," he stated, noting that the coverage extends to the immediate family members of those registered as animal raisers or farm workers.
Biag explained that the insurance initiative serves as a proactive measure by the municipal government to support food producers who face both natural and human-related risks.
Interested applicants are encouraged to complete their forms and present their farmer identification cards and a government-issued ID at the Municipal Agriculture Office by November 29, 2024.
According to Biag, this initiative complements existing insurance programs for crops, fish harvests, and livestock.
Ilocos Norte has recently registered an estimated PHP 30 million (US$515,000) in agricultural damage due to Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name Trami), which impacted several parts of the country last week.
Expressing her appreciation for the initiative, Currimao farmer Agnes Asuncion said, "We are grateful for the free insurance coverage sponsored by the government. It is a big help for us in case of emergency."
- Philippine News Agency