Kibungan, Benguet, Jan. 20, 1998 - Thin films of ice crystals have already destroyed 20 hectares of cabbage and potato farms, causing P20 million worth of damage.
Veronica Manalo, a leading horticulturist, told media that farmers in Benguet wake up every morning to find half an inch of frost covering the soil and whatever crops are planted. The Department of Agriculture has acted swiftly and is now adopting relief measures to extend agricultural loans and technical assistance to affected farmers.
The phenomenon, called "yapayap" by the natives, is expected to worsen this year. Frost has been a recurring problem of highland farmers. From December to March, the average lowest temperature along the Mountain Trail area or Halsema Highway range from seven to eight degrees Celsius, two degrees lower than the temperatures in Baguio.
In Baguio, the "yapayap" or frost ruins strawberry fields and orchards planted to American lemons.
Reported by: Sol Jose Vanzi
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