Pangasinan farmers, folk get farm equipment, geohazard maps

Sen. Loren Legarda. INQUIRER file photo

Senator Loren Legarda on Tuesday distributed farm equipment and geohazard maps to farmers and residents in Pangasinan.

A statement e-mailed to media said Legarda, who chairs the Senate Committee on Climate Change, also conducted a public hearing to teach residents how to use geohazard maps to save lives. She also held a Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Roadshow at the Pangasinan State University-Lingayen Campus.

Legarda also turned-over  knapsack sprayers and fertilizer for corn production programs in Mangaldan and joined farmers at the Pozorrubio Farmers’ Night.

“I want my visit in every province to be productive, by educating local folk on disaster resilience and providing them with necessary tools to ensure that they are ready to face the hazards ahead,” she said.

“Our local government units must prepare communities for disasters. The geohazard maps will help them make sound policies for local disaster resilience,” she added.

Legarda stressed that the agri sector is most vulnerable to climate change. Thus, she said she wants to equip farmers with information and tools to ensure better yield and effectively adapt to the effects of global warming.

“Our times and climes have changed. This is a reality that even our soldiers realize. In fact, our armed forces are gearing up for a battle against disasters,” said Legarda, referring to reports that the Armed Forces of the Philippines will join a climate change summit this year.

“The AFP is strengthening capacity to respond to disasters, but they should also be better-equipped in preparing for natural hazards to reduce loss of lives and damage to properties. We must all join hands in shaping our country to become thoroughly prepared,” Legarda said. INQUIRER.net