TARLAC CITY, Tarlac – Mayor Susan Yap personally visited the farmers of Barangay San Francisco on August 20, to check on their condition and listen to their needs following the recent weather disturbance that affected their livelihoods.
In a dialogue with the agricultural sector, Mayor Yap emphasized the city government’s commitment to providing sustainable support rather than just temporary relief. She highlighted the importance of empowering farmers through work, training, and productive assistance over dole-out aid, noting that farmers are hardworking individuals who will take care of the help given to them.
“Gusto kong tinutulungan yung magsasaka,” Mayor Yap said, explaining why her focus has always been on providing training and livelihood opportunities rather than just dole-outs.
Ready to Provide What Farmers Need
During the consultation, Mayor Yap asked the farmers directly what assistance they require as they prepare for the next planting season. She assured them that the city is ready to procure whatever they need, which is why she decided to visit them immediately to hear their concerns firsthand.
“Anong tulong na kailangan ninyo mula sa amin para paghandaan na?” she asked the farmers, emphasizing the importance of knowing their specific needs so the city can prepare accordingly.
The mayor also confirmed that the city has an allocated budget for agriculture, and she urged the farmers to identify the tools and supplies they need whether seeds, fertilizers, or other farming essentials. She made it clear that these items would be prepared and made available for them.
Relief Goods Distributed
Aside from the dialogue, the City Government of Tarlac, in coordination with the City Agriculture Office, also distributed relief goods from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to affected farmers and their families.
The assistance aims to ease the burden of the weather disturbance’s impact while the city government works on long-term programs to help restore and improve the farmers’ productivity.
A Promise of Continued Support
Mayor Yap reiterated that the city government will not stop at this initial outreach. She assured the farming community that they remain a priority, with programs continuously being developed to address their concerns and uplift their sector.
“Makakaasa po kayo na hindi dito nagtatapos ang ating pag-alalay,” she stated, adding that the city government, together with the City Agriculture Office, will continue to listen closely, monitor developments, and take action to deliver programs that will truly benefit the farmers’ livelihoods.
She reminded the farmers that they are an essential part of the city, and their welfare will always be cared for.
“Kayo po ay mahalagang bahagi ng ating lungsod, kaya patuloy nating aalagaan at susuportahan ang inyong hanapbuhay,” Mayor Yap said.
The visit is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to ensure that the agriculture sector receives the assistance it deserves, recognizing the vital role farmers play in Tarlac’s growth and food security.
The City Government of Tarlac reaffirms its commitment to the farmers — listening closely, responding quickly, and acting decisively for the welfare of every Tarlakenyo.
