Manila, April 22 -- The Ilocos Norte provincial government distributed PHP8.1 million in livelihood assistance to 330 farmers from various "zanjera" (communal irrigation) organizations at the Ilocos Norte Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Center here on Wednesday.

The assistance included 70 heads of cattle, 143 goats, 187 piglets, and 233 hog starter feeds.

During the distribution, Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, said the amount was sourced out from the provincial government's share of Republic Act 7171 or the so-called tobacco excise tax.

"This is truly meant for you, our farmers, who are the backbone of our economy," the governor said as she enjoined the beneficiaries to continue being patient following the continuing energy crisi...