Albay Governor Noel Ebriega Rosal announced the allocation of over Php 80 million to implement multi-sectoral interventions following a sustained fuel price surge in early April 2026.
Rosal said the spike has affected not only the transport sector but also increased the cost of basic necessities and prime commodities, adding burden to residents.
He said the provincial government is coordinating with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to determine appropriate support and avoid duplication with national programs.
Rosal said households and interested individuals will receive seeds and seedlings of fast-growing vegetables and cash crops suitable for small-scale and container gardening.
He said the province is encouraging the establishment of communal gardens to improve food self-sufficiency.
The provincial government will distribute seedlings including okra, tomatoes, pechay, and eggplant.
The Albay Provincial Agricultural Office confirmed that five to six million pesos has been allocated to sustain the program.
Rosal said the province is also identifying assistance for farmers and fisherfolk to avoid overlap with national support programs.
He also confirmed the allocation of funds for rice procurement for households classified as among the poorest.
Rosal said beneficiaries will receive 10 kilograms of rice every other month.
He added that the province is studying the provision of cash assistance for tertiary students to help ease education-related expenses.
The governor said they will coordinate with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Albay for the approval of a supplemental budget for the said initiatives.
Source: Albay PIO