Manila, March 24 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Tuesday announced the possible release of the PHP10 billion Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF) to registered farmers and fishers starting April 6.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. disclosed the timeline during the organizational meeting of the Senate Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy (PROTECT) Committee amid surging fuel prices due to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

Tiu Laurel said they are eyeing to start releasing the PAFF after the Holy Week, following the commitment of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

"Hopefully by the week of April 6. We are just waiting for the SARO (Special...