Hi everyone! Hope you’re all having a good day!
Yesterday, I had the chance to claim a fertilizer voucher from the Department of Agriculture. The voucher was released at our barangay hall, and since my husband was in out-of-town travel and he is a member of the RSBSA (Registry System for Basic Sector in Agriculture), So that I was the one who went to claim it as a representative.
When I arrived at the barangay hall gymnasium, the officers of the day told us to form lines. They divided the lines based on last names: one line for A to K, and another for L to Z. Everyone followed the rules, and we were hoping it would be quick and organized.
But after some time, people began to notice that the line was not moving at all. What we saw was disappointing, those who knows or familiar to the facilitators were prioritized, even though they were not next in line. The sad part is that the senior citizens and the person with disability, who should have been the priority, were the ones having a hard time. They couldn’t stand too long, so they sat down and prepared their valid Identification Cards, hoping to be assisted faster. But it didn’t work. In fact, they end up waiting even longer.
The releasing process was very slow. There was no one properly announcing or guiding the people in line. Many were confused and tired, especially the elderly. It was a stressful experience for all of us who waited patiently.
After hours of standing and waiting, my husband’s name was finally called. I was so happy and relieved. The voucher was finally given to me. This help means a lot to us farmers, especially now that the price of Grain rice is very low. The amount of the voucher depends on the size of the land being farmed. For every hectare, can received 2,500 pesos voucher worth of fertilizer, along with 3 sachet’s fertilizers.
Though the process was tiring and needed better organization, I am still thankful. Every bit of support matter to us farmers. I just hope that in the future, the distribution system improves, especially for our seniors and those who truly need assistance.
I also hope there won’t be any favoritism during the listing or distribution of aid. Everyone should be treated fairly, especially the small farmers who really need support. Help should reach those who truly deserve.
This Photo is mine, captured with my vivo phone Edited in Canva.
This morning, we went to the Agri supply store to encash or exchange our voucher for the fertilizer. But they told us it can’t be incash yet because they are still waiting for the funds. They said the Department of Agriculture takes a long time to pay them, so they just roll their capital for now. That’s why, as of now we haven’t incash anything. They said maybe next week it will available. It’s a bit disappointing, especially since we really need the fertilizer, but life goes on. We just have to wait and hope.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. This is a simple way to show the real experience of claiming government aid. It may not be perfect, but it reflects the truth, the patience of a farmers and the struggles many of us go through just to receive support. Behind every voucher claimed is a story if effort, sacrifice and the hope for a better future. 💚🌿