Philippines Tobacco Downed by Rain

Source from:  Monday, February 6, 2006 tobaccoreporter.com 02/07/2006

Tobacco farmers in the Philippines where crops have been devastated by heavy rains have today asked President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to order the release of about P300 million in tobacco funds, according to a report in The Philippine Star. The money, which represents the National Tobacco Administration's share of tobacco excise collections, is earmarked for investment in a joint venture food processing operation. The Administration reported that the rains, which struck mature plants, had caused losses estimated at about P540 million. About 35% of tobacco plants are said to have been affected, though in some areas the figure rises to 90%. It is too late in the season for farmers to replant tobacco and the immediate start of the food processing plant is seen as one of their few hopes. Enditem