DA Launches Agri-Puhunan at Pantawid: Affordable Credit and Support Program for Farmers

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has officially rolled out the Agri-Puhunan at Pantawid Program (APP), a new initiative aimed at easing financial pressure on Filipino farmers through low-interest loans and direct support.

Launched in Alabel, Sarangani, and led by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., the program allows farmers to borrow up to ₱60,000 per cropping season at just 2% annual interest—a move designed to replace high-interest loans that often burden agricultural workers.

“Starting today, you won’t have to worry about steep loan interest rates,” President Marcos assured farmers during the launch.

Loan repayments can be made by selling crops to the National Food Authority or via DA-accredited cooperatives, making the process more accessible and farmer-friendly.

In addition to the loan, beneficiaries will receive a ₱8,000 monthly subsistence allowance for four months, covering the planting and harvesting period. The support is intended to help farmers focus on their work without worrying about daily expenses.

Farmers will also be issued Intervention Monitoring Cards, which can be used to buy agricultural supplies from accredited vendors.

To enhance productivity, the government will also distribute agricultural machinery like a mobile disinfection truck and a forage chopper, boosting income opportunities for rural communities.