By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the hot sun of Pili, Camarines Sur, hundreds of farmers and fisherfolk gathered at the Fuerte Sports Complex, eager to learn how to protect their livelihoods from the dangers of nature. On August 27, 2025, around 300 participants attended the Department of Agriculture–Agricultural Credit Policy Council (DA-ACPC) Credit Ugnayan, where key agricultural support services were introduced.
The Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) Regional Office 5 took this opportunity to inform attendees about the vital role of crop insurance. Engr. Maria Janice Obias, Regional Manager of PCIC RO 5, explained how insurance can help farmers recover after disasters like typhoons and floods, which have become more frequent in recent years.
Obias detailed the insurance products available, the claims process, and the importance of securing coverage early. She emphasized that insurance is a safety net that helps protect farmers’ and fisherfolk’s hard work and income from unexpected losses.
Beyond insurance, the event also provided practical information on accessing agricultural credit to help participants expand or improve their operations. Attendees learned how to register in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA), a government database that helps farmers and fisherfolk access various support programs.
The DA-ACPC Credit Ugnayan also guided participants on opening bank accounts, a necessary step for receiving loans and other financial aid. This comprehensive approach aims to empower farmers and fisherfolk by improving their financial literacy and access to government programs.
Such initiatives are crucial in a country like the Philippines, where many small farmers and fisherfolk face challenges from climate change, limited capital, and market uncertainties. By providing insurance and credit support, government agencies hope to build resilience among rural communities and boost agricultural productivity.
As more farmers and fisherfolk become aware of these programs, they can better prepare for risks and seize opportunities for growth. The DA-ACPC Credit Ugnayan in Camarines Sur is one step towards a stronger and more secure agricultural sector.
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