BACOLOD CITY: The provincial government of Negros Occidental will release a financial assistance worth P2,500 for each farmer hit by the El Niño phenomenon, Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said Thursday, February 8.

"I don't think that's enough, but I hope it could mitigate the effect of the dry spell or drought," Lacson said.

A report from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) released by the governor to local media showed that Himamaylan City, Hinoba-an, Sipalay City, Isabela, Moises Padilla, Cauayan and Binalbagan are now experiencing the effects of the dry spell.

Lacson said the El Niño phenomenon has affected 374 farmers and 346.87 hectares of land from 37 villages in the province.

The damage so far has been estimated at P12,811,097.

"It is unfortunate that Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City, may experience drought starting the end of February up to May," the governor said.

Lacson said he has instructed provincial agriculturist Dina Gensola to submit the list of affected farmers qualified to receive the financial assistance.

Most of the affected areas depend on rain to irrigate their farmlands, he said.

The OPA has been doing a survey to determine the scope of the damage.

Lacson also reminded the public, especially the farmers, to maximize the use of water.