Benguet farmers forced to harvest early due to Typhoon Betty

Several farmers in La Trinidad, Benguet were forced to harvest their crops early due to the rains brought about by Typhoon Betty.

According to a report by GMA Regional TV One North Central Luzon’s Russel Simoro on “24 Oras” Tuesday, the persistent rains prevailing in the province since yesterday prompted the farmers to harvest their produce to avoid spoilage.

They said the crops were supposed to be harvested next week. They are reaping them now as it would be better to sell them for cheaper price than for the crops to be destroyed by the rains.

“Pero kung may taklob 'yan, ilang araw po hindi ma-harvest. Kaya lang hina-harvest namin nang walang taklob,” a farmer said.

(It may last for a few more days if it had cover. We’re harvesting it now because it didn’t have any.)

The Department of Agriculture (DA) Cordillera earlier advised the farmers to do forced harvest due to the threat of Betty. The agency said supplies of highland vegetables remain sufficient as there are currently 2,287 metric tons of produce available for trading.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Civil Defense advised residents and motorists to remain vigilant in landslide-prone areas. — Sundy Locus/BM, GMA Integrated News