DAR allocates P20 M for Ifugao Rice Terraces rehab

DAVAO ,Philippines  – Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala has ordered the allocation of P20 million for the immediate rehabilitation of the Ifugao Rice Terraces.

In a press conference here, Alcala said he ordered the allocation of the P20 million following a visit to the Ifugao Rice Terraces over the weekend to assess the damage and determine how it can be restored.

He said at least 35 steps of the world-renowned rice terraces have sustained damage due to erosions caused by giant worms, burrowing eels and aggravated by the recent typhoons.

Ifugao Gov. Eugene Balitang previously estimated that at least P200 million is needed to restore the collapsed portions of the terraces in the towns of Banaue, Kiangan, Mayoyao and Hunguan.