The Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families (PAFFF) is a government initiative spearheaded by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. It aims to address the impacts of the El Niño phenomenon, which has severely affected agriculture and fisheries, leading to economic instability in vulnerable communities. By providing financial aid, the Office of the President (OP) not only exemplifies the government’s dedication to supporting the agricultural and fisheries sectors during challenging times, but also addresses long-term sustainability.
With continued collaboration among government agencies and active participation from beneficiaries, the program sets a strong foundation for a resilient and thriving agricultural economy in the Philippines. Farmers, fisherfolk, and their families are encouraged to take full advantage of this initiative to rebuild their livelihoods and contribute to national development. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of the program, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, and everything you need to know to go through the PAFFF application process.
PAFFF Features and Benefits
The PAFFF program is designed to provide comprehensive support to farmers, fisherfolk, and families in areas affected by prolonged drought and other challenges caused by El Niño. Drawing its authority from provisions in the Philippine Constitution and various legislative acts prioritizing disaster response, social justice, and agricultural development, the OP, along with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Agriculture (DA), and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), among others strive to:
- Offer immediate financial assistance
- Deliver agricultural inputs and technical support
- Develop infrastructure to promote long-term agricultural resilience
- Facilitate sustainable livelihood opportunities
Key Benefits
It was designed to offer the following benefits to its target beneficiaries:
- Financial Assistance
- Immediate cash aid to support families facing financial challenges due to drought.
- Agricultural Inputs
- Distribution of seeds, fertilizers, irrigation equipment, and other tools to improve productivity.
- Infrastructure Development
- Enhancements to irrigation systems and road networks to support local commerce and agriculture.
- Technical Support
- Training programs and resources to help farmers and fisherfolk adopt sustainable practices.
- Livelihood Opportunities
- Job creation initiatives, such as the TUPAD program by DOLE, and additional support from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
Program Beneficiaries
The program targets very specific groups, including the following:
- Farmers: Individuals engaged in agricultural activities, particularly those whose crops and livelihoods have been severely impacted by drought.
- Fisherfolk: Members of fishing communities whose income has been disrupted due to the adverse effects of El Niño on aquatic ecosystems.
- Families in Affected Regions: Households residing in areas declared under a state of calamity due to El Niño, including Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat, and Cotabato.
- Agricultural Workers: Individuals employed in farm-related tasks who have experienced job losses or reduced income due to the drought.
- Recognized Agricultural or Fisheries Group Members: Members of local cooperatives or organizations in the agriculture and fisheries sectors.
- Economically Disadvantaged Residents: Families or individuals certified as indigent by their respective local government units (LGUs).
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the PAFFF program, all target beneficiaries must at least meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Residency
- Must reside in one of the designated areas: Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat, or Cotabato.
- Occupation
- Priority is given to farmers, fisherfolk, and families directly impacted by El Niño.
- Economic Status
- Applicants must demonstrate financial need due to the adverse effects of the drought.
- Membership
- Must be affiliated with a recognized local agricultural or fisheries group.
Required Documents
They are required to submit the following to prove their eligibility and complete the application procedures:
- Proof of Residency
- Valid ID or certification from the local government unit (LGU).
- Proof of Occupation
- Certification from an agricultural or fisheries organization.
- Proof of Income
- Latest income tax return or certification of indigence from the LGU.
- Completed Application Form
- Available at local DSWD or DA offices.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Once the required documents are ready, simply follow these steps to apply:
Step 1. Gather Necessary Documents
- Collect proof of residency, occupation, income, and the completed application form.
Step 2. Visit Local Offices
- Go to the nearest DSWD or DA office to obtain an official application form.
Step 3. Complete the Application Form
- Fill out the form with accurate and up-to-date information.
Step 4. Submit Your Application
- Submit the form and all required documents to the designated government office.
Step 5. Wait for Verification
- Government agencies will review and verify your application.
Step 6. Receive Notification
- Once approved, you will receive a notification regarding the status of your application.
Step 7. Claim Your Assistance
- Approved beneficiaries can collect their financial aid and other benefits at designated distribution centers.
Collaborative Efforts and Recent Updates
The success of the PAFFF hinges on coordinated efforts between national agencies and local government units. Agencies such as the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) have been instrumental in delivering various forms of assistance. In fact, some of its successful distribution facilitated with the support of these very agencies include:
Support in Sultan Kudarat
- President Marcos personally oversaw the distribution of cash aid, agricultural inputs, and livelihood toolkits in the Municipality of Lebak, Sultan Kudarat.
Aid Distribution in Mindanao
- The DSWD disbursed Php478.85 million to 47,885 beneficiaries in Mindanao, including Zamboanga, General Santos, and Iligan City. Assistance included cash aid, seeds, and farming equipment.
Assistance in Samar Island
- Php95 million was allocated to the provinces of Samar for financial aid and infrastructure support. The initiative highlights the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of communities affected by drought.
Cloud Seeding Operations in Isabela
- In collaboration with the Philippine Air Force, cloud seeding activities were conducted to mitigate drought effects in Southern Cagayan and Northern Isabela. Additional financial aid amounting to Php191 million was distributed in Region II.
Video: Distribution of the Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolks, and Families
Learn more about the program by watching this video featuring the distribution of the provisions of the Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolks, and Families and the Awarding of the Certificate of Condonation from RTVMalacanang: