Fifty-nine (59) farmers from the two municipalities of La Union finally received the replacement for the cattle they lost at the height of typhoon Maring in 2021.

The municipalities of Luna and Bangar received from the Department of Agriculture-Ilocos Region a total of 59 heads of cow equally distributed to 30 farmers in Luna and 29 farmers in Bangar amounting to Php5.35 million including 7 liters of albendazole.

In a simple distribution ceremony conducted on October 12, 2022, OIC-Regional Executive Director Dr. Annie Q. Bares led the awarding of assistance alongside with La Union 1st District Representative Paolo Ortega, Provincial Board Member Gerard Ostrea, Luna Mayor Gary Pinzon and Bangar Mayor Joy Merin, with other provincial and municipal staffs officials.

In their messages during the distribution activity, the officials urged in unison the 59 farmer-beneficiaries to take good care of the awarded livestock to them and make extra effort to tend to these animals so they may increase in number and support the sustainable cattle production program of the province.

Given as grant to the beneficiaries, with an amount of Php34,500 each head, the officials also expressed their full support to DA’s efforts and other agri-endeavors aimed at providing livelihood opportunities in the farming communities of Luna and Bangar, La Union.

Meanwhile, in her message of support, Dr. Annie Bares reminded the beneficiaries about their obligations of taking good care of the animals and be responsible livestock raisers by promptly reporting any observations of disease or other related concerns that may affect their livestock. She likewise informed the beneficiaries that DA staff will be regularly monitoring the project to ensure that government interventions are managed properly.

The cattle distribution is part of DA’s rehabilitation program for typhoon damages which are among the requested interventions by typhoon-affected farmers.##