BAGUIO City has officially been placed under a state of calamity as declared by the local government, acknowledging the severe economic impact of the ongoing crisis on key sectors.
The city’s vital tourism industry has experienced a significant downturn, with hotel bookings plummeting by nearly 30 percent, resulting in substantial financial losses for local businesses. This declaration allows the city government to utilize the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (LDRRMF) to address the crisis effectively.
The transportation sector has also been hit hard by the continuous surge in oil prices. The price of diesel has reached ₱165.70 per liter, a steep increase that has forced some drivers to temporarily suspend their operations.
This disruption in public transportation not only affects the drivers and operators but also has a cascading effect on the movement of goods and people within and outside the city. The state of calamity will enable the city to implement expanded transport subsidies to alleviate the burden on PUV operators.
Furthermore, farmers in the neighboring province of Benguet are facing immense difficulties due to high transportation expenses.. The price of diesel has made it prohibitively expensive for them to bring their produce to market. Compounding their woes, the farm gate prices of their harvests have plummeted to as low as ₱3 to ₱8 per kilogram. This situation threatens the livelihoods of many agricultural workers and could impact the supply of fresh produce in the region. The LDRRMF will also be utilized to ensure an adequate supply of basic commodities.
The declaration of a state of calamity empowers the Baguio City government to mobilize resources and implement necessary interventions.
Beyond transport subsidies and ensuring food security, the fund can be used for various programs aimed at mitigating the economic hardships faced by residents and businesses. This proactive measure underscores the local government’s commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges brought about by the current economic crisis and supporting its constituents during this difficult period.
metrosundaily
